Thinking that learning is limited to the classroom is a misconception. Learning is part of the human life cycle, and it continues even outside of school. Fortunately, by the way: it would be sad to never learn anything again once your studies are over! It is then a question of informal education. Between formal and informal learning, there is a crossroads: crossover learning. This educational reform aims to promote pedagogy and create new opportunities for learners. We said we would explain to you what this thing, cross... crossi... crossover learning, was. So, we're off, hold on to your glasses (if you don't have glasses, you're inferior, sorry!)
What is crossover learning?
Crossover learning, or from its French name cross-learning, is a pedagogical method that combines informal learning (acquisition of knowledge by yourself or through EdTech) and formal learning (acquisition of knowledge according to institutional standards). Its aim is to offer learners better training opportunities. It provides new learning opportunities that are both original and engaging, much like the Gamification for example. Concretely, this strategy allows the trainer to ask a question in class so that the learners answer it, once in the field.
For this purpose, the resolution of the question or problem is answered during visits to museums, a green class, an excursion, an internship, visits to production sites or a personal activity. Learning takes place by taking photos, taking notes or by asking for the opinion of others. After collecting information, learners present the new knowledge they have acquired on the given problem once in class.
In addition to traditional learning methods, trainers can capture the attention of their learners by using creative tools., visual exercises or even fun and interactive games. It can address complex topics with artistic, innovative and stimulating activities for better assimilation. Well, of course, trying to reproduce the famous photo of Einstein sticking his tongue out won't help anyone progress in physics, but still, it's fun.
Combining the formal and the informal for better learning
The concept of crossover learning allows learners to deepen their knowledge through explorations outside of school or business premises. It opens up new perspectives and enriches learners' training activities. Crossover learning offers a number of advantages, including:
- Improving the apprenticeship system;
- The enrichment of knowledge and skills;
- Stimulation of curiosity;
- The awakening of the faculty of orientation and observation (game: let go of your learners to the four corners of Paris without GPS and ask them to find their way back to the company. Some will gain a lot in orientation skills);
- The assimilation of new concepts (example: reading a map).
Cross-learning has a positive impact on skills, as well as The commitment of learners. The program allows them to work on or deepen a subject that is of particular interest to them. Their motivation is impacted.. In addition, this device creates a learning environment that is conducive to evolution. It allows learners to use all the experiences they have gained across different learning ecosystems.
What are the impacts of crossover learning?
This learning device allows the creation of a new teaching scenario. The trainer has the opportunity to try educational experiences outside the classroom. Warning: some practical exercises are not suitable for this, such as advanced chemistry experiments or the dissection of people who have donated their bodies to science for future doctors. It may come as a surprise. Learners, on the other hand, discover authentic exercises that move away from the traditional curriculum. (many team building exercises, such as escape games, are particularly suitable for this). They develop new know-how, new skills as well as a communicative and cohesive spirit. However, the evaluation of informal education requires some time to think, as it does not use the usual channels. At worst, organize a lip dub: those who dare to participate will get the average, those who refuse will get 20/20, because it's super cheesy anyway.
Cross-learning: a challenge
Introducing informal education into formal education uses experience to enrich knowledge. This learning system allows learners to exploit two different environments (or more) to discover possible learning opportunities. However, crossover learning requires the involvement of the trainer to be implemented. The challenge is to establish a formal learning program that adheres to official standards while including fun activities for informal learning., as a form of Gamification. Learners should have some freedom and not be stuck in their own corner (well, if you have chosen the freestyle chemistry experiment, it is normal for them to go into hiding.)
This environmental discovery can be made in:
- One Museum of art or history to enrich general knowledge;
- One forest or green space to take stock and get some fresh air to stimulate concentration;
- One professional internship to discover another profession;
- One DIY activity to acquire manual skills (watch out for jigsaws and other nail guns, anyway);
- One fun and interactive game to promote communication and create a collaborative spirit, etc. Not Jungle Speed, however. For those who don't know, it consists of catching a mini wooden pole every time the cards give you the signal, and each time, it's a showdown, with scratches and annoyances at the rendezvous. Save yourself that.
Learning happens everywhere and at any time. Everyday life provides lessons by itself. While formal learning in institutions offers knowledge about basic subjects, informal learning offers skills through self-experience. Moreover, thanks to interconnection, training and online sharing, the world of training opens up to many horizons.
Is competency-based training possible?
Given the benefits of crossover learning, some institutions are considering introducing informal learning practices into their formal curriculum. This approach is based on skills. Instead of being assessed for their ability to accumulate knowledge, learners are evaluated for their ability to acquire new abilities and achieve goals.
Adapting crossover learning can reduce the demands on academic results to emphasize other practical skills. This initiative can increase the personal development of learners and instill in them positive values such as autonomy, curiosity, persistence, and observation skills. So why not work on crossover learning?
