Outcome-Based Education

Abstract

The literature laments college students’ lack of financial literacy and their lackadaisical interest in learning. However, our research demonstrates that students can be enticed such that they get interested in acquiring financial skills. Generally, college students live hand-to-mouth and are happy to learn about money-making opportunities (not necessarily financial management). Students were informed that qualified faculty will conduct a series of workshops whereby they will learn financial tools and skills and will also get an opportunity to trade stocks and options first-hand. Literature on pedagogy confirms that experiential learning is the best way to learn. Students also prefer practical, hands-on learning more than listening to a lecture or reading a book. Moreover, if workshops (for which professionals charge exorbitant sums) are offered for free, students’ interest soars, and they enrol in hordes. This is confirmed by our workshops which proved successful in enhancing student interest and imparting financial skills. The workshops were innovative and unique as they were online, interactive, tutored, and free. They were open to students from all majors, faculty, and staff. Students are excited about stock trading but are generally apprehensive of and intimidated by financial options. This was true of our sample of students as well, but the faculty-led, friendly, and riskless environment of hands-on learning provided a great opportunity, and over 100 individuals enrolled in our workshops. A comparison of pre- and post-survey quizzes shows that participants’ interest in, and knowledge of options trading increased significantly due to the workshops.