Innovative Pedagogy in Finance Education: A Retrospective and Future Outlook

M Manjarishar
2 min readNov 26, 2023

As a professor deeply immersed in the dynamic world of business education, I’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformation in how we teach and learn about finance, particularly in the realm of fundraising. Reflecting on an initiative I led in 2012, where students explored the art of raising funds through a blend of hard work and strategic thinking, I’m inspired to examine how far we’ve come and where we’re headed in this critical area of study.

The 2012 Initiative: A Hands-On Approach to Learning Finance

Back in 2012, we embarked on a pedagogical journey, focusing on understanding the sources of finance and the practical skills needed to raise funds. Students were encouraged to engage in various activities, crafting innovative strategies to generate financial support for their projects. This hands-on approach was not only about raising money but also about nurturing key skills such as creativity, strategic planning, and resilience.

Today’s Landscape: Technology and New Methods Enhance Reach

Fast forward to the present, and the landscape of fundraising education has evolved dramatically, thanks in large part to technological advancements and innovative methodologies. The advent of digital platforms has expanded the reach and efficiency of fundraising efforts, allowing students to tap into a broader audience and leverage tools that were not available a decade ago.

Challenges and Opportunities in Modern Fundraising Education

However, the core challenge of fundraising remains intact: it is a complex, demanding task that requires a deep understanding of finance, coupled with the ability to persuade and inspire potential donors. Today’s students must be adept at using digital tools while also possessing the timeless skills of storytelling, emotional intelligence, and ethical persuasion.

Preparing for the Future: Integrating Technology with Traditional Skills

As educators, our role is to seamlessly integrate these new technologies with the traditional principles of finance and fundraising. We must prepare our students to navigate a world where digital platforms coexist with face-to-face interactions, where data analytics complements emotional appeal, and where ethical considerations are paramount in the quest for funds.

Conclusion: The Continual Evolution of Finance Education

In conclusion, the journey from our 2012 initiative to the current state of fundraising education reflects the continual evolution of pedagogy in the field of finance. As we look to the future, our focus must be on equipping students with a blend of traditional skills and modern technological proficiency, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-changing financial landscape.

Originally published at https://manjarisg.blogspot.com.

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M Manjarishar

Assoc. Prof & Author passionate about innovative pedagogy & experiential learning. Transforming classrooms into hubs of creativity & critical thinking.