The goal of this formative study was to explore a 7-step model, Illumination System, designed and developed by the researcher, to attain a greater understanding of adult learners and to encourage and support their learning processes within informal settings. The objective of the study was to explore how adults could work together as they follow the first 3 steps of the model, and to discover emerging themes that were important to understanding ways to encourage informal learning and collaboration among adults. The study involved a 4-week pilot program conducted in 2007 with a total of 12 people, all members of the researchers' social network. One group met in person (N=7) and the other communicated online (N=5). Follow-up interviews in 2010 with pilot study participants provided their perspectives on the factors that facilitate and impede the learning based upon the 7-step Illumination System model. In addition, a cross-section of specialists in education, positive psychology, innovation development, and creative studies, were interviewed to help gauge the potential effectiveness of this educational model. Action research was used as the process for incorporating elements of formative evaluation and developmental intervention.;Findings: At the end of 4 weeks all participants reported that they enjoyed the experience and that they had experienced moments of illumination. Further, the study found that adults may have emotional and structural needs that go deeper than solely being able to access online or in-person participatory learning communities. This feedback and other informal conversations illustrated that passive entertainment, depression, and level of maturity can impede participants' capacity to follow the Illumination System. Overall, specialists were able to see the potential benefit of this model as a promising approach for encouraging adult learning.;Key words: adult education, andragogy, informal learning, new media studies, open source education, positive psychology, skillshares
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