AUTHOR : SANJAY SARAF
Cherry Picking is Dangerous in Education
The iconic opening line, "To be, or not to be," delivered by Prince Hamlet in William Shakespeare's Hamlet Act 3 Scene 1, may seem far removed from the realm of finance education. However, it encapsulates a profound dilemma faced by educators like myself: whether to teach the entirety of the content or to selectively impart knowledge based on perceived student capabilities. I reject the notion of categorizing students as "bright" or "not so bright" as it undermines their potential and does a disservice to their learning journey.
As an educator with nearly three decades of experience across various finance courses, including CA, CMA, CFA, FRM, and options & derivatives training, I firmly believe in providing comprehensive education to all students. In my teaching career, I've encountered the challenge of deciding whether to cover 100% of the curriculum or cherry-pick topics. Despite the complexity inherent in higher finance, I am committed to delivering complete learning experiences. This entails integrating academic knowledge with real-world examples to enhance comprehension and engagement.
For instance, when teaching CA Final SFM, I utilized the Adani saga to contextualize the syllabus, making the content relevant and captivating. Similarly, in CFA Level 1 sessions on Corporate Issuers and Business Models, I incorporated case studies of companies like Zomato and Facebook to elucidate complex concepts. By integrating real-world examples and providing intuitive explanations, I ensure that students grasp the material deeply and can apply it effectively. While acknowledging that students learn at different paces, I maintain high standards of instruction to empower every learner to reach their full potential.
Sharing the relevant links below for a ready reference-
CA Final SFM| Adani saga
CFA Level 1 | Corporate Issuers | Business Models | Facebook
CFA Level 1 | Corporate Issuers | Business Models Zomato
Despite the temptation to compromise teaching to accommodate the masses, I advocate for unwavering commitment to comprehensive education. Such dedication not only benefits students but also strengthens the entire learning ecosystem. In an era where Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries, complete learning experiences are indispensable for fostering adaptability and innovation.
In conclusion, I urge fellow educators to prioritize teaching 100%, embracing the challenge of making complex concepts widely accessible. By doing so, we not only equip students for success but also contribute to a more knowledgeable and resilient society.