Hvorfor scenariebaseret læring virker: Styrkelse af økonomiske færdigheder gennem virkelige kontekster

In a world where financial decisions have become more complex than ever, teaching financial literacy can no longer rely on static theory alone. To truly empower young adults with the skills to make informed financial choices, educators need methods that are engaging, practical, and directly linked to everyday life. That is where Scenario-Based Learning (SBL) comes in — and why it has become a cornerstone of the FINMAN+ project.

What Is Scenario-Based Learning?

Scenario-Based Learning is an instructional method that places learners in realistic situations where they must make decisions, solve problems, and reflect on outcomes. Instead of passively absorbing information, learners are actively involved in navigating financial challenges — from managing a monthly budget to choosing between saving, investing, or spending.

This approach mirrors real life, allowing participants to experiment with financial behaviour in a safe and supportive environment. Through this process, learners not only gain knowledge, but also develop judgment, responsibility, and confidence in handling their personal finances.

Why It Works for Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is not just about numbers — it’s about understanding consequences and making sound choices under real conditions. Traditional teaching methods often fail to capture the emotional and situational factors behind financial decisions. Scenario-Based Learning bridges that gap.

• Relevance: Each scenario mirrors real financial dilemmas that young adults face in their daily lives.
• Engagement: Learners take on roles and make active decisions rather than just listening or reading.
• Reflection: Each outcome leads to a discussion on what worked, what didn’t, and why — turning mistakes into learning moments.
• Retention: Studies show that learners remember more when knowledge is tied to real-world experiences.

In FINMAN+, these scenarios are designed around themes such as budgeting, debt management, digital payments, savings habits, and responsible borrowing, helping participants understand not only “what” to do but also “why.”

How FINMAN+ Applies the Approach

As part of our co-creation process, educators, and project partners are developing a collection of scenario-based training modules for young adults aged 25–30. Each scenario follows a structured narrative — introducing a relatable situation, presenting key decision points, and offering immediate feedback.

During the educator training sessions held within the project, participants explored how to create their own scenarios and adapt them for different learning groups. They also learned how to connect scenarios with learner personas, fictional but research-based profiles that represent typical young adults with varying financial habits, motivations, and challenges.

By linking personas and scenarios, FINMAN+ ensures that every learning experience feels authentic, accessible, and culturally relevant across Europe.

The Impact We Aim For

Through Scenario-Based Learning, FINMAN+ aims to transform how financial education is delivered — turning abstract theory into lived experience. By empowering adult educators with practical tools and innovative teaching methods, we help them cultivate not just knowledge, but financial confidence and autonomy among Europe’s young adults.

Because in the end, the best way to learn about money is not to read about it — but to live it, safely, through scenarios that prepare you for real life.