Description: This presentation proposes a solution to the student actuarial paradox “I mastered the syllabus but failed the exam,” by utilizing the two-dimensional syllabus vehicle which pedagogically focuses on the two dimensions of content and problem difficulty. This presentation advocates the PMR characterization of three levels of problems difficulty: Plug-ins (easy), Monkey-wrench (intermediate), and Research-type(hard) questions. PMR was developed by examining difficulty levels in SOA exams, and problems of various software vendors. The author's students routinely score high on the SOA FM exam; it is hoped that these methods will assist other instructors in their quest for good pedagogy. Very briefly: “Plug-ins,” refer to multi-part problems, for example, calculating the price of an annuity that is first increasing and then level; “Monkey-wrench” problems specifically refer to plug-in multi-part problems where one component is a monkey-wrench, an issue the candidate has not previously encountered. It might be a non-typical modeling or it might be a non-typical algebraic simplification or it might be an unexpected integration of distinct modules in a manner that the candidate has not yet seen. “Research-type questions” refer to problems requiring some type of experimentation for example, looking at initial cases, seeing a pattern and then applying methods

Description: In this article, we share our experience in launching an actuarial program at a small university. We discuss considerations that must be made regarding the administration of the program, design of the curriculum, and meeting students' needs.

Description: Read the August 2020 issue of Expanding Horizons published by the Education and Research Section. Newsletters provide practical information for the working actuary, articles on trends that impact sections and news about section activities.

Description: Describes the Keynote Speakers, Invited Sessions and other information about the 54th ARC.

Description: Call for papers for publication in Actuarial Research Clearing House (ARCH). The primary goal of ARCH is the speedy dissemination of current thinking and aids to research rather than the publication of thoroughly edited papers. ARCH welcomes short notes or papers, correspondence between researchers, useful computer programs (or announcements of the availability of such programs), translations of appropriate material in foreign languages, problems, solutions, etc.

Description: We discuss a teaching program for new actuarial science and risk management & insurance educators at Georgia State University that includes the following topics: - Introducing insurance - Syllabus construction - Creating content and actively engaging students - Student motivation and career paths - Assessment and grading rubrics - Professional ethics and other

Description: This article discusses the work of the Accreditation Implementation Task Force in developing accreditation standards for university actuarial programs.

Description: Stefanos Orfanos shares his perspective and priorities for this year as the incoming chair of the SOA Education and Research Section.

Description: This article updates the reader on the Doctoral Stipend process.

Description: Personal reminiscences