https://docs.google.com/document/d/16SSIyqcBFm3PM9ZlhWKjt6mYVBWC3P4LeHB0x53d7k8/edit?usp=sharing
Discussion Prompt 1
Purpose: The purpose of these discussions is to help you reflect on and apply the concepts we learned in Module 3. By sharing your thoughts and experiences with your peers, you'll be able to see how these lessons apply to real-world scenarios, strengthening your understanding and preparing your jargon defense skills as a competent Financial Ninja.
CLO 4: Recognize key red flags of predatory lending, including confusing contract language, and explain their significance.
Module 3 LO: Recognize common signs of predatory lending, including manipulative language and unclear terms.
Discussion Topic: What does this mean?
Assignment: In this module you learned how predatory lenders use unclear or confusing language to hide the true cost of a loan. Now, imagine you're helping a friend review the following paragraph from a loan agreement. Read the text below and create a post on the discussion board explaining what is really being communicated and point out which red flags stood out to you.
To earn full credit, make sure to review and reply to at least two of your peers' posts with your thoughts/feedback.
This loan agreement spanning 36 months initiates with a promotional APR of 5.0% for the first 8 periods of the fiscal year. Upon the conclusion of this initial term, the introductory interest rate will transition to a variable standard rate, which is calculated based on the prevailing prime rate plus an additional margin of three hundred basis points, subject to a semi-annual review. In the event that the final day of the 18th month of the loan term coincides with a full moon, to be verified through a celestial authority, and results in a subsequent awakening of lycans, where at minimum two sightings are confirmed through trusted news sources, an interest rate adjustment of an additional 10% shall incur for the next month. Furthermore, any premature loan settlement prior to the 25th month will incur a mandatory prepayment fee, equivalent to either a flat three percent 13% of the outstanding principal balance or the sum of the remaining interest payments due over the following six months, whichever amount is greater.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zHy4uxuObKI0kj0tj5tsUNgD0XvhRbTgqtCIwx1Pnpw/edit?usp=sharing
Discussion Prompt 2
Purpose: The purpose of these discussions is to help you reflect on and apply the concepts we learned in Module 3. By sharing your thoughts and experiences with your peers, you'll be able to see how these lessons apply to real-world scenarios, strengthening your understanding and preparing your defense skills against an aggressive financial foe. Go Ninja, Go Ninja, Go!
CLO 4: Recognize key red flags of predatory lending, including confusing contract language, and explain their significance.
Module 3 LO: Recognize common signs of predatory lending, including manipulative language and unclear terms.
Discussion Topic: The Pressure Cooker!
Assignment: In this module you learned how predatory lenders use pressure tactics like "Must Act Now!" We see more ads than ever in 2025. Think about an ad you've seen recently, for any product or service, that used this type of tactic.
Which ad stands out to you? What did the ad say or do to make you feel like you had to act fast or fear serious FOMO? Why is this a red flag when considering financial decisions? Why do you think some ninjas fall for this tactic? How do you resist the pressure and temptation of these offers?
To earn full credit, make sure to review and reply to at least two of your peers' posts with your thoughts/feedback.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LE44LExhwbIjXTfn2nFHuFRz-BPk_Z2yq79WrucXSYs/edit?usp=sharing
Video link: https://youtu.be/FOrLCuOJpDg?si=I8mGlgu-wrbq99xG
Assignment Prompt
Purpose: This assignment gives you a chance to see the red flags we discussed in the module come to life. By analyzing real-world scenarios from a video, you'll practice identifying predatory tactics and reinforce your knowledge, proving you're ready to spot these dangers yourself.
CLO 4: Recognize key red flags of predatory lending, including confusing contract language, and explain their significance.
Module 3 LO: Recognize common signs of predatory lending, including manipulative language and unclear terms.
Assignment Topic: Video Analysis
Assignment: In this module you learned how predatory lenders use unclear or confusing language to hide the true cost of a loan. For this assignment, you will watch a short engaging video on predatory lending. As you watch, pay close attention to the characters and the situations presented.
In a paragraph, your task is to identify and explain at least three red flags that are shown or mentioned in the video and share what other real-life examples of these red flags you have seen.
To earn full credit, make sure to review and reply to at least two of your peers' posts with your thoughts/feedback.
This is aligned with the following Course Learning Outcomes (CLO) and module Learning Objectives (LO):
CLO 4: Recognize key red flags of predatory lending, including manipulative marketing techniques, hidden fees, and confusing contract language, and explain their significance.
Module 3 LOs:
List common signs of predatory lending, such as exorbitant fees and high interest rates.
Recognize manipulative marketing tactics used by predatory lenders.
Discuss the importance of asking questions and seeking clarity in financial agreements.
Practice identifying red flags through interactive exercises.
Brief Description of Activities Learners will Interact with as Part of Module:
Learners will view the module that covers the topic through interactive presentation and includes gamification elements including real life role play scenarios, matching terms with descriptions, and a this/that game for formative assessment.
Creating these discussion and assignment prompts was an insightful exercise in applying learning theory to practice, especially when tailoring content for a younger audience. My hope for designing these prompts is that they not only test knowledge but also encourage critical thinking and practical application, using formats like video analysis and hypothetical scenarios to make the content relatable. The participation data gathered from learner responses will be critical in determining the value brought by this course. By analyzing the submissions, I can gauge where students might be struggling with a particular concept. This feedback loop will be essential for iterative design, allowing me to revise and refine the learning experience for future learners.