Small EL: Hands-On Securities Trading Practice
This activity empowers students to execute financial securities trades in a simulated lab
Activity summary
In this Small EL experience, students participate in a simulated trading session using professional trading software to practice placing client orders, interpreting market information, and managing trades in a realistic financial environment. The activity provides an authentic securities trading experience that mirrors industry practice. Working in a dedicated trading laboratory, students execute client orders accurately, interpret order books, and make decisions under time pressure while avoiding speculative trading. Guided reflection helps students connect technical skills with professional judgment and develop confidence in a simulated workplace setting.
Important details
- Activity Setting: Lab
- Time for activity: 1 Lab/Tutorial
- Assessment Approach: Participation
- Assessment Type: Continuous Fedback
- Weight in Final Grade: Total participation is 6% of final grade
Learning outcomes
- Students learn how to place buy and sell orders using the Rotman Interactive Trading platform.
- Students interpret order books and respond appropriately to client trading scenarios.
- Students apply course concepts to make informed trading decisions in a simulated market environment.
Course description
A comprehensive exploration of security analysis and investments aimed at advancing understanding of financial markets, valuation techniques, and portfolio selection under various investment objectives. Topics such as capital allocation, diversification, security (stocks, bonds, derivatives) valuation, and market efficiency are covered.
This is a course description from the UCalgary Academic Calendar.
Implementation insights
What worked well?
Students were highly engaged because the activity allowed them to practice real‑time trading in a simulated environment.
What challenges did you encounter?
Some students attempted to engage in speculation which would result in fines.
How might students redo/try out or apply these skills in future opportunities?
Students can apply these trading skills in future finance courses and in professional settings that require familiarity with trading platforms.
Reflection component
- Format for reflection: Students complete a written reflection.
- Graded: Yes
Sample reflection prompt
"Using the FUSION metacognition module, students reflect on what they learned from the trading experience and how they applied course concepts during the simulation."
Final thoughts
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Advice for those seeking to try this activity
An important consideration when running this activity is investing time in learning the trading lab software prior to delivery. Although there is an initial learning curve, familiarity with the system significantly improves the flow and effectiveness of the student experience.
Seeking more information about this activity?
Please contact Stephen Paget for with further questions and be sure to include a link to this webpage in your email.