In May, fourth grade students at Watervliet Elementary School were introduced to SEFCU’s challenge-based iPac learning lab: Change Your World, Making Financial Decisions. View photo gallery

This unique, first-of-its-kind program introduces basic financial concepts and decision making using iPads and Apple robots to children between the ages of nine and 12 years old.

The use of the iPads and robots offered high-quality interactions in a collaborative learning situation. Students applied the new material and shared their experiences around making financial decisions with a limited budget.

The students enjoyed working the robots, and did a great job presenting,” said teacher Jeanne Lance. “We thank SEFCU educators for providing this fun learning experience for our fourth graders.”

Earlier this school year, students in kindergarten through grade 6 participated in SEFCU’s Institute for Financial Well-Being’s free financial education workshops. K-2 students participated in Joe the Monkey Saves for a Goal; third-graders explored Does Money Grow on Trees?; and grades 4-6 students learned about The Money Cycle with Institute team members.

Through these highly engaging lessons students learned such skills as establishing savings goals, understanding the money cycle, and forming positive spending habits.