The concept of interactive adult education is critical. To ensure the proper learning environment it is recommended that the Academy control the total number of students involved in a class: a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 25 to foster discussion and the exchange of ideas.

All adults involved in a family’s house purchase should attend the Academy to acquire the budget and credit tools needed for the family’s long term success. This is doubly true when these adults are earners.

It is important to remember that a certain level of attrition may occur during the course of the Academy. Typically 20% of the individuals who begin the sessions do not finish, and most of the attrition occurs in the first three weeks of the Academy.

The Academy’s open discussion format is further encouraged by seating arrangements which allow face to face contact between applicants. Use a semi-circle seating arrangement and place the teacher at the open end of the circle.

In many discussions the teacher will use a blackboard or flip chart to illustrate points. In turn the students need table space to follow along in their student manuals or to write notes. The facility should be large enough to accommodate these various needs without sacrificing intimacy because group cohesion depends on this.

Frequently children accompany parents to Academy sessions. Older children may listen to the discussions; however younger children are often disruptive and need to be located away from the Academy classroom. Unless there is a child care solution which is covered by liability insurance, it is best for the parents to arrange their own solutions.