The project titled “The Development of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and Blockchain Workshop,” led by Dr. Yoon Hoo Kim in partnership with students, including Miss Dariga Zaikinova, has significantly advanced financial literacy education at HKBU. This initiative leverages innovative teaching methods and robust student involvement, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to financial education.
Innovative Teaching Through Real-Time Trading
Under the auspices of the UGC’s Special Grant for Strategic Development of Virtual Teaching and Learning, the project centered around creating an online platform where students can engage in real-time stock trading using virtual currency, specifically targeting the Hong Kong stock market. This platform serves as a practical tool, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in a controlled, simulated environment, thereby enhancing their understanding of market dynamics and strategic decision-making.
Diverse Student Contributions
The development of the stock platform was a collaborative effort involving students from various faculties. Computer science students led the technical aspects, business students developed the content based on real-world financial principles, and visual arts students produced compelling promotional materials. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriched the platform’s development but also ensured its relevance and appeal across a broad student base.
Benefits of Student-Teacher Collaboration
Working closely with students like Miss Dariga Zaikinova provided Dr. Kim with fresh insights into effective teaching strategies and content delivery. The hands-on involvement in a real-world project like the stock exchange game significantly bridged the gap between theoretical instruction and practical application, fostering enhanced engagement and learning outcomes.
Future Integration of Student Partnerships
Encouraged by the success of this project, Dr. Kim is committed to further integrating Students as Partners (SaP) elements into his future courses. The innovative suggestions from students, such as the inclusion of a social media component on the platform, have demonstrated the value of this collaborative approach in keeping the curriculum relevant and engaging.
Student Insights on Partnership Learning
Students involved in the project, including Miss Dariga Zaikinova, gained invaluable skills in project management, communication, and flexibility. Their close work with faculty and interaction with industry professionals not only enriched their educational experience but also prepared them for future professional challenges. This project underscored the importance of adaptive learning environments and the critical role of student feedback in educational design.
This case study exemplifies the transformative potential of student partnerships in higher education, illustrating how collaborative projects can lead to innovative educational tools and enriched learning experiences, thereby creating a more dynamic and inclusive academic environment.
