Abstract:

The paper is devoted to applying informal learning techniques in teaching General English to students of Kazan Federal University, Russian Federation. Informal learning is frequently regarded as an alternative to formal, didactic instruction. The relevance of the paper is not questioned, as positive emotions which are peculiar to informal learning facilitate the process of language learning and studying to students of any age. Knowledge acquired through positive experience is kept in memory for longer time compared to information and skills obtained in standard formal system of education. The informal learning deals with learning and innovation as goals, and they all include guidance to newcomers through social interaction and/or the structure of activities.The paper considers informal learning theory which includes its definition and characteristics and overviews various informal learning strategies used in General English lessons. In addition to it, stages of managing the educational process by the means of these technologies are considered. Usage of above-mentioned methods in English lessons at Kazan Federal University is presented in the given work.

Keywords:

Education, informal learning, university, student, ESL.