In talent development, what does "informal learning" refer to?

Informal learning refers to the process of acquiring knowledge and skills outside of formal or structured training programs. This type of learning encompasses a broad range of experiences and interactions that may occur in everyday life, work situations, or through personal exploration. It often happens spontaneously and can be self-directed, meaning that individuals take the initiative in their learning without a formal agenda or curriculum.

This concept includes learning through social interactions, on-the-job experiences, discussions with colleagues, reading, and even exploration of resources like videos or articles independently. The essence of informal learning is its flexibility and adaptability to individuals' unique contexts and needs.

In contrast, the other options provided suggest forms of learning that are either more structured or limited in scope. For example, learning facilitated by a mentor or coach can be considered informal, but it is not the defining characteristic of informal learning as a whole. Learning conducted through formal assessments is explicitly structured and evaluated, while learning from online courses represents a formal approach to education. Thus, the broad nature of informal learning makes it vital to talent development as it encompasses many experiences beyond traditional training.