Reading Summaries


Overview

The purpose of the reading summaries and presentations are to help students more fully analyze what they read. Preparing these reading summaries and presentations also helps students critique, apply, and discuss the research, theories, heuristics, biases, and related concepts we discuss in class. Each reading summary should include an overview, critique, and application of the reading as well as potential discussion questions that we can use in class.

Assignment Guidelines

Please following these guidelines when selecting Reading Summaries and Presentations:

  • Students must submit 3 reading summaries and 3 presentations per semester.
  • Students may choose which course articles to summarize or present.
  • A single reading assignment can be used for both the written summary and the presentation.
  • The instructor reserves the right to adjust the readings, assigned summaries, or assigned presentations as needed.

Summary Requirements

Summaries must use the following section headers:

  1. Overview (1-2 paragraphs): Summarize major points, such as what was studied, the methodology, and the discoveries.
  2. Critique (1 paragraph): Identify strengths and weaknesses, evaluating clarity or potential issues with the research.
  3. Application (1 paragraph): Explain how the reading applies to practice for financial advisors, analysts, or clients.
  4. Engagement (2-4 questions): Provide a list of questions to spark class discussion.

Presentation Guidelines

Presentations should be 15-20 minutes long and utilize a visual aid. They are graded on the following:

  • Overview: Approximately 5 minutes.
  • Critique: This section is optional for the presentation.
  • Application: Approximately 5 minutes.
  • Engagement: 5-10 minutes (aim for 2-3 discussion questions).

Reading Summaries