Setting Learning as a Deliberate Goal – Effectiviology

• Incidental learning occurs during activities where learning is not a goal for the learner. For example, when someone plays a sport just for fun, but ends up improving their skills over time.
• Intentional learning involves learning as a deliberate and primary goal.

Neither type of learning is inherently better. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the person and circumstances.

• It can be more effective, such as learning an advanced mathematical concept for an exam.
• It can be more efficient.
• It can be more enjoyable.

In other situations, intentional learning is less effective, efficient or enjoyable, and incidental learning is preferred.

• Encourage the main antecedents of intentional learning, including motivation, belief in your learning ability, and recognising your need to learn.
• Identify your goals, such as figuring out what concepts you’re trying to learn.
• Plan your learning.  Find out where and when you will learn and which learning strategies you will use.
• Actively question information that you encounter.

• Develop the antecedents of intentional learning, such as helping people recognize the need for learning.
• Help learners identify their learning goals.
• Help learners plan their learning. For example, figuring out where and when they’re going to learn.
• Encourage the use of effective learning strategies.