The focus on competency based examinations at the new FAE is underpinned by a new teaching style. Classes have been designed to be more participative and interactive that the old FAE programme; using case studies to focus on the application of technical areas. In order to maximise the benefits of this teaching style, classes have been limited to 100 students for core technical areas, and limited to 50 students for integrated case study sessions. This reduction in class size is already leading to greater engagement by students.
In order to facilitate the reduction in class size, Student Services has had to introduce block releases to the Dublin timetable. The timing of these block releases is currently under review for 2010 / 2011 and options will be available for firms to choose from by August 2010.