Description: A typical course has some "hard" parts. These "hard" parts are the places where weaker students begin to fail, lose interest, and give up. The paper introduces a metric by which to evaluate each course topic. High metric values indicate "hard parts" of courses. The paper recommends spending more course time on hard parts and less course time on easy parts. The paper also recommends using disclosure: Tell students - this part of the course is "hard" and they may feel uncomfortable which is why more time is being spent on it." This approach to hard parts works! Failure rates are significantly reduced, while retention, satisfaction, and student scores improve.

Description: We stand for respect and equality. We are committed to doing all we can to ensure that our profession reflects the diverse perspectives, cultures and backgrounds of the members and candidates.

Description: The SOA launches a new newsletter powered by Artificial Intelligence

Description: The SOA announced the 2019—2020 James C. Hickman Scholars.

Description: In this webcast, we will cover steps you can take to build up your business savvy skillset at all levels in your career as actuaries. We will hear from two professionals who have been able to practice this effectively in their careers and create influence via their actions.

Description: Report of recent IAA event in Tokyo.

Description: Editors note summarizing contents of the newsletter and volunteer opportunities.

Description: Read the January 2020 issue of International News published by the International Section. Newsletters provide practical information for the working actuary, articles on trends that impact sections and news about section activities.

Description: Many firms use in-your-face feedback mechanisms; however, Harvard Business Review authors Marcus Buckingham and Ashley Goodall argue that the most effective approaches employ open-ended questions that help employees maximize their unique strengths. Sample questions are provided so that managers can start utilizing the process as soon as they read this article.

Description: Entry in the Speculative Fiction Contest 2019