Job Guide

Learning experiences can take place in formal, non-formal and informal settings.

Formal learning takes place through a structured and organised program of instruction that has been formally approved or recognised and leads to the full or partial attainment of a qualification (e.g. a certificate, diploma or degree).

It can take place in an education and training institution, such as a TAFE, or on the job. Some industries and businesses also provide formal education and training programs.

Non-formal learning is what you learn through a structured program of instruction, either within or outside an education and training institution. It is not usually evaluated and does not lead to a qualification.

Informal learning is what you learn from daily work-related, family or leisure activities, such as when someone shows you how to do a task or when you learn by observing others completing tasks. It is not organised or structured learning.

Your decision to be involved in formal, non-formal or informal learning will depend on your career needs at the time. For example, many people in Australia choose to undertake formal training to gain vocational qualifications at different points in their career.

Some choose to begin their career by studying for a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification; others return to study after a few years in employment as a way to gain new skills or to change jobs.

Others find that they learn more through non-formal and informal learning, through work experience or maybe through the mentors who guide them in their career path. As their careers progress, these people may consider formal training. Their knowledge and skills gained outside the formal education system may be recognised and count towards their formal training.

Where does formal learning take place?

The Australian education and training system is made up of the following:

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