EDS3701
Assignment 2
Unique NO: 185541
DUE: 8 MAY 2026
, Assignment 02
Unique Number 185541
COVER PAGE
Student Name:
Student Surname:
Assignment Number: Assignment 02
Unique Number: 185541
Module Code: EDS3701
Module Name: Education Studies
Primary Lecturer:
Due Date: 08 May 2026
Table of Contents
2.1 WHAT IS LEARNING? (3 Marks).................................................................................................. 2
2.2 FIVE TYPES OF LEARNING (37 Marks).................................................................................... 2
2.2.1 Formal Learning ....................................................................................................................... 2
2.2.2 Non-formal Learning ................................................................................................................ 4
2.2.3 Informal Learning ..................................................................................................................... 6
2.2.4 Self-directed Learning.............................................................................................................. 8
2.2.5 Lifelong Learning .................................................................................................................... 11
CONCLUSION ...................................................................................................................................... 14
REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................... 15
1|Page
, 2.1 WHAT IS LEARNING? (3 Marks)
Learning is a complex process that occurs in different ways and has been defined
differently by various scholars. Learning is fundamentally about how we perceive and
understand the world, and about making meaning. It is not merely a linear process but
involves the interests and intentions of the learner.
Learning involves several dimensions including mastering abstract principles,
understanding proof and evidence, remembering information, acquiring methods,
techniques and approaches, recognizing and reasoning about ideas, debating concepts,
and developing behaviour that is appropriate to specific situations.
As emphasized in the study materials, learning is about how we perceive and
understand the world, about making meaning. The materials further note that "unless
schemata are changed, learning will not occur. Learning (whether in cognitive, affective,
interpersonal or psychomotor domains) is said to involve a process of individual
transformation". This highlights that true learning results in a change in understanding,
behaviour, or capability.
2.2 FIVE TYPES OF LEARNING (37 Marks)
2.2.1 Formal Learning
Definition and Characteristics
According to UNESCO (2009:27), formal learning occurs as a result of experiences in
education or training institutions, with structured learning objectives, learning time and
support which leads to certification. Formal learning is intentional from both the learner's
and teacher's perspectives.
Rogers (2014:16) further explains that formal education is not only intentional on the
part of the learner, but it is also intentional on the part of the teacher. The study
materials define formal learning as taking place "in education and training institutions, is
recognised by relevant national authorities, and leads to diplomas and qualifications.
2|Page
Assignment 2
Unique NO: 185541
DUE: 8 MAY 2026
, Assignment 02
Unique Number 185541
COVER PAGE
Student Name:
Student Surname:
Assignment Number: Assignment 02
Unique Number: 185541
Module Code: EDS3701
Module Name: Education Studies
Primary Lecturer:
Due Date: 08 May 2026
Table of Contents
2.1 WHAT IS LEARNING? (3 Marks).................................................................................................. 2
2.2 FIVE TYPES OF LEARNING (37 Marks).................................................................................... 2
2.2.1 Formal Learning ....................................................................................................................... 2
2.2.2 Non-formal Learning ................................................................................................................ 4
2.2.3 Informal Learning ..................................................................................................................... 6
2.2.4 Self-directed Learning.............................................................................................................. 8
2.2.5 Lifelong Learning .................................................................................................................... 11
CONCLUSION ...................................................................................................................................... 14
REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................... 15
1|Page
, 2.1 WHAT IS LEARNING? (3 Marks)
Learning is a complex process that occurs in different ways and has been defined
differently by various scholars. Learning is fundamentally about how we perceive and
understand the world, and about making meaning. It is not merely a linear process but
involves the interests and intentions of the learner.
Learning involves several dimensions including mastering abstract principles,
understanding proof and evidence, remembering information, acquiring methods,
techniques and approaches, recognizing and reasoning about ideas, debating concepts,
and developing behaviour that is appropriate to specific situations.
As emphasized in the study materials, learning is about how we perceive and
understand the world, about making meaning. The materials further note that "unless
schemata are changed, learning will not occur. Learning (whether in cognitive, affective,
interpersonal or psychomotor domains) is said to involve a process of individual
transformation". This highlights that true learning results in a change in understanding,
behaviour, or capability.
2.2 FIVE TYPES OF LEARNING (37 Marks)
2.2.1 Formal Learning
Definition and Characteristics
According to UNESCO (2009:27), formal learning occurs as a result of experiences in
education or training institutions, with structured learning objectives, learning time and
support which leads to certification. Formal learning is intentional from both the learner's
and teacher's perspectives.
Rogers (2014:16) further explains that formal education is not only intentional on the
part of the learner, but it is also intentional on the part of the teacher. The study
materials define formal learning as taking place "in education and training institutions, is
recognised by relevant national authorities, and leads to diplomas and qualifications.
2|Page
