The document discusses social networking and informal learning. It defines social networking and explains how informal learning occurs through conversations and communities of practice. It suggests that social networking technologies can encourage and maximize informal learning by allowing people like a teacher named Joe to join online learning communities. These communities support public conversations between members about ideas, questions, and experiences, creating a knowledge-rich environment for informal learning.

2. Faculty survey data suggests informally structured learning

3. Workplace learning models run along a continuum. Formal Training Events Communities of Practice/ Learning Communities Informal Learning

5. Informal learning is how most professional learning happens “ Informal learning is the unofficial, unscheduled, impromptu way most people learn to do their jobs.” -- Jay Cross, http://informl.com/2006/05/20/what-is-informal-learning/

6. Informal learning is how most professional learning happens “ Conversations are the stem cells of learning, for they both create and transmit knowledge. Open conversation increases innovation. People love to talk. Bringing them together brings excitement.” -- Jay Cross

7. Informal learning is user directed, and lower cost

8. But can you formalize informal learning? Work Learning

9. Social Networking technology can encourage and maximize informal learning

11. Joe the teacher has ideas and questions. But he is boxed in by his schedule. He can’t interact like he wants to.

12. Joe joins a online learning community with others who have ideas and questions.

13. Joe searches and finds Jane who writes about what is on her mind. Ideas, reflections, musings, experiences, rants, raves, influences

14. Joe engages her ideas and writes his own. They have a public conversation. Ideas, reflections, musings, experiences, rants, raves, influences Ideas, reflections, musings, experiences, rants, raves, influences

15. The entire network does likewise. Their community is knowledge-rich.

16. Some members form interest groups to focus the conversation. They are still connected to the entire network and vice versa. Interest Group