Informal Online Learning: Motivational Factors and Incorporation into Formal Learning Environments

This secondary research paper seeks to explore informal online learning, namely, the motivational factors behind it and the challenges of incorporating informal learning into formal learning environments. Using background research studies, main themes in the field of informal learning and research gaps were identified, and research questions for this paper were set. This secondary research paper also includes the description of the implications of the findings for educators and instructional designers, as well as suggestions for further research. Keywords: informal learning, online learning, formal learning, incidental learning, online learning communities, social media