Individual Assignment: Reflection Analysis Paper
Due August 13, 11:59pm
Submit on UM Learn
You will submit a reflection analysis paper that is intended to develop your ability to apply the concepts we learn in class to real-world experiences, events, and/or issues. The focus of your reflection analysis is up to you, but the goal is for you to think critically about whether what you see is consistent with assumptions of “rationality” and the outcomes expected in a traditional finance framework, and identify and describe any underlying behavioral concepts that may help explain what you are seeing. If there is an issue that could be addressed to improve outcomes, you may also want to think about your recommendations for how to mitigate, resolve, and/or improve these issues by using your knowledge of behavioral concepts, as well as barriers to their adoption.
Your reflection analysis paper, for example, may analyze how your personal experiences (or you may want to interview a family member or friend) have affected your (their) preferences, beliefs/views, and decision-making. You could also analyze an industry or societal issue, an issue you have come across at work, or a current event that you find to be particularly interesting; in these cases, you may want to consider various stakeholders as well as ethical issues. While a topic related to finance is preferred, I do not want to limit you and encourage you to explore something of personal interest.
Your reflection analysis should be a critical analysis based on your own thoughts and opinions, backed up by information and evidence, concepts learned in class, logic, and well-articulated reasoning. A mere summary of experiences, issues, or events will result in a failing grade. Note that if an analysis is submitted on a topic already covered in class, a deeper and more insightful analysis taking into account all relevant class discussions will be expected.
A peripheral goal of this assignment is to develop your ability to provide a clear exposition of your ideas in writing and improve your professional writing skills. Your opinions and ideas are only as good as your ability to communicate them. Please ensure your ideas are not masked by poor writing. I suggest using the writing tutors available from the U of M Academic Learning Centre. Further, I encourage you to explore the Asper Writing Course (ASPER_WRITING_CO) on UM Learn.
Your reflection analysis must be submitted on UM Learn by 11:59pm on August 13 and should be a maximum of three double-spaced pages (Times New Roman size 12). You may include additional page(s) for references (APA) and figures, if applicable. Each reflection analysis will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
The thorough, insightful, and correct identification and application of course concepts, including both relevant “rational” and behavioral concepts, that are practically relevant in the real world (50%)
Logical reasoning and development of thoughts and ideas including the presentation of logical, consistent, cohesive, and relevant arguments throughout the analysis. Uses effective support (e.g., reasoning, evidence, examples) for claims made. (30%)
Quality of writing (e.g., clear, concise, and direct writing style, free from grammatical and spelling errors and avoids unnecessary words) and adherence to the prescribed format and page limit. (20%)
