What term describes the process of learning additional information alongside the main content being taught?

The term that describes the process of learning additional information alongside the main content being taught is "incidental." This concept refers to learning that occurs in a non-intentional or unexpected manner. When students are engaged with primary material, they often pick up related insights, facts, or knowledge that are not the focal point of the lesson but enhance their understanding and retention of the core concepts.

For example, while students study a historical event, they might also learn about the cultural context or consequences that accompany that event, without specifically aiming to learn those details. This incidental learning enriches their overall comprehension and allows for deeper connections.

The other terms mentioned do not capture this specific process of unplanned learning. Residual usually suggests what's left over after something has been accounted for, while conceptual pertains to understanding ideas and principles. Supplemental implies additional resources that are intentionally provided to enhance learning but do not refer to the organic learning that happens incidentally.