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Essay / Lifelong learning: the importance of lifelong learning
There are various forms of learning, formal, non-formal and informal, which constitute lifelong learning life (Laal, 2011). The difference between formal and non-formal learning is the environment in which the learning occurs. Formal learning usually takes place within institutions which consist of a structured and organized context such as formal education and corporate training which often leads to formal recognition and qualifications. Non-formal learning is learning consisting of planned activities that are not specifically labeled as learning but contain a significant learning element. Informal learning is described as learning that occurs in daily life activities related to work, leisure, or family. This type of learning generally refers to experiential or incidental learning where one acquires valuable skills, knowledge and attitudes. Lifelong learning is learning that should take place at all stages of life and should extend throughout life. Lifelong learning also allows the individual to update their basic skills throughout their life.