EP11: Innovating Education in Bermuda: FinTech at The Berkeley Institute

Innovating Education in Bermuda: How The Berkeley Institute is Leading the Way in FinTech

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, preparing students for the future means more than just teaching traditional subjects. It requires equipping them with skills that will help them thrive in industries that didn’t even exist a decade ago. One school that’s ahead of the curve in this area is The Berkeley Institute in Bermuda, where FinTech is now a part of the curriculum.

Listen to the Podcast Episode on Apple Podcast and Spotify: EP11: Innovating Education in Bermuda: FinTech at The Berkeley Institute

Recently, on the Future Focused Learning Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Dee-Ah Iris, an inspiring educator who has taken on the challenge of teaching FinTech to high school students. With a background in business, Ms. Iris transitioned into education after a personal tragedy, seeking to make a meaningful impact on her community. Her journey from the corporate world to the classroom is a testament to her passion for education and her commitment to preparing students for the future.

Bringing Real-World Skills into the Classroom

One of the key takeaways from our conversation with Ms. Iris was the importance of making education relevant to the real world. At The Berkeley Institute, students aren’t just learning about FinTech in theory; they’re gaining practical knowledge that will serve them well in their future careers. Ms. Iris incorporates real-world applications into her teaching, helping students understand how financial technology impacts their everyday lives and the global economy.

For example, students explore the history of financial technology, from the days before credit cards to today’s digital currencies. They learn about the evolution of financial instruments and how FinTech is revolutionizing industries across the board. This hands-on approach not only keeps students engaged but also helps them see the value of what they’re learning.

Why FinTech Matters in Bermuda

Bermuda is positioning itself as a leader in FinTech, and schools like The Berkeley Institute are playing a crucial role in this transformation. By introducing FinTech at the high school level, Bermuda is ensuring that its students are competitive on a global scale. As Ms. Iris pointed out, the skills students learn in her FinTech class—critical thinking, problem-solving, and tech literacy—are essential for success in any field.

Moreover, the FinTech program at The Berkeley Institute is set to grow, with plans to offer micro-credentials that will give students a tangible advantage when they enter the workforce. This forward-thinking approach is not just about teaching students what they need to know today but also about preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow.

The Impact of an Engaging Teacher

Ms. Iris’s teaching philosophy is rooted in making education engaging and accessible. She views her students as her clients, striving to create an environment where they feel valued and motivated to learn. Her approach to teaching math and FinTech is all about creativity, adaptability, and authenticity—qualities that resonate deeply with her students.

As we discussed on the podcast, one of the most important lessons Ms. Iris imparts to her students is not to be afraid of making mistakes. She encourages them to take risks, learn from their errors, and keep pushing forward. This mindset, she believes, is crucial not just for academic success but for life in general.

The work being done at The Berkeley Institute under the guidance of educators like Ms. Iris is a shining example of how schools can innovate to prepare students for the future. By embracing emerging fields like FinTech and integrating them into the curriculum, The Berkeley Institute is helping to ensure that Bermuda’s next generation is ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.

If you’re interested in learning more about how FinTech is being taught at The Berkeley Institute and the impact it’s having on students, be sure to listen to the full episode of the Future Focused Learning Podcast with Ms. Dee-Ah Iris. It’s a conversation that offers valuable insights into the future of education and the power of innovative teaching.