Point of Departure
We are determined to make training as real as possible and stay as far as possible away from mere theory.
Why
For us it is like helping a child learn how to tie shoe laces. A child learns to do it by doing it. If we want to eventually change behaviour and attitude towards saving, we can hope to fix or repair the habits in adults OR we can build (not fix or repair) it into children by training up our children.
Jeff Olson describes 3 ways of getting knowledge:
(1) Studied Knowledge (2) Activity Knowledge (3) Modeled Knowledge.
Our understanding of these are that the 3rd way is better than the 2nd way and the 2nd way is better that the 1st. If this is the case, then we should do all we can to apply the better one so that we can get the better result.
Where
Many environments are very suitable for implementation of the relevant activities to enhance knowledge in respect of money, to create awareness around saving and to assist children achieve financial intelligence.
Schools are one example. These days learners are exposed to relevant subjects such as Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) and Life Orientation (LO). Some learning outcomes that these subjects are supposed to achieve are:
EMS (Foundation, Intermediate and Senior Phase: Grades R - 9)
The learner will be able to demonstrate knowledge and the ability to apply responsibly a range of managerial, consumer and financial skills.
2. Learning outcome 4 (Entrepreneurial knowledge and skills)
The learner will be able to demonstrate entrepreneurial knowledge, skills and attitudes.
What we do
Learners achieving the above-mentioned learning outcomes will clearly be part of the solution to the lack of financial intelligence we currently have. However, the lack of resources in our schools and communities and the limited access to facilities make it difficult for the majority.
So, in school learners obtain studied knowledge. We bring learners the joy of experiencing practical activity knowledge! Every learner gets the opportunity to sign up for our financial education project of skills training (activity knowledge) and mentorship (modeled knowledge).