Lesson #1: Stock Market Is No Game

Young Participants to Learn How to Research, Invest and Manage a Portfolio

February 18, 2009 :: No. 130

Who/What:

Students in fifth grade through high school will be learning the ins and outs of the stock market this spring as participants in a 10-week simulation offered by Cal State Fullerton’s Center for Economic Education, which offers the program to schools throughout the Southland.

When:

The next session begins Monday, Feb. 23, and continues through May 1.

Why:

“We believe that students in California need to be trained in economic thinking to make intelligent choices,” said Chiara Gratton-Lavoie, director of the Center for Economic Education. “Knowing how to make sound financial choices and understanding how the economy works is more important today than ever.”

Background:

The 10-week program, offered each spring and fall by the center since 1993, calls for students to work in teams, researching, investing and managing a $100,000 portfolio. The program is a hands-on learning experience designed to promote interest in economics, as well as current events.

Rewards:

The top three teams with the largest portfolio values (based on real-time, real-market prices) will receive achievement certificates, T-shirts and monetary awards.

Center:

The is part of Cal State Fullerton’s Mihaylo College of Business and Economics. Its purpose is to provide technical education services to improve the level of economic understanding in grades K-12, institutions of higher education and the surrounding community.

In addition to the stock market simulation, the center offers consultation services, teacher workshops and educational materials.

How:

To participate or support the program, call 657-278-2248 or visit http://business.fullerton.edu/centers/econcenter.

Media Contacts:
Chiara Gratton-Lavoie, Center for Economic Education, 657-278-2292 or cgratton@fullerton.edu
Pamela McLaren, Public Affairs, 657-278-4852 or pmclaren@fulleton.edu

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