Final answer:
Service learning is defined as integrating academic study with community service to benefit both student growth and community needs. Informal education encompasses learning societal norms and behaviors outside formal settings, contributing to a student's cultural capital.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ehrlich (1996) defined service learning as "Integrating academic study with community service", which combines educational objectives with hands-on experience to meet community needs. This educational approach not only enriches the student's personal and academic growth but also benefits the broader community. Service learning contrasts with informal education, which refers to the learning of cultural norms and behaviors through participation in a society and is an essential aspect of a student's overall education.
The concept of informal education is broad and can include various forms of non-formal learning, but it is primarily characterized by its role in teaching individuals about societal customs and practices outside of a formal educational setting. It is during college that students often gain exposure to a wide array of topics, and through service learning and informal education, students develop a better understanding of the world around them, building on their 'cultural capital' and preparing them for professional and civic life.