I've been thinking about this topic for a while now after reading some earlier, similar posts. As someone who has done quite a bit of self-directed and peer-to-peer (in some cases similar to an old-fashioned apprenticeship) learning on the job, I understand that formal learning is not always required. However, as a non-learning professional who has been responsible for training others, I still see the value in having the input and guidance of someone experienced in how people learn. I hope there will be a middle ground where I don't have to be an expert in my field and in methods & tools for learning. I think some of this 'decentralization' of learning is driven by a desire to save cost rather than just through the benefits that social tools and methods can provide. I'll be interested to see if this becomes a pendulum swing like many others in business or a real long-term shift in the way things work.