Necessary Tools

Real Information. Real Choices. Real-World Financial Decisions.

F.L.A.M.E. gives students a realistic financial literacy experience. Rather than providing predetermined costs, the program requires students to research actual expenses and make financial decisions based on the life they choose to build.

To complete the F.L.A.M.E. experience, students should have internet access and be able to research the following:

• Education & Career Costs — Colleges, universities, technical schools, certification programs, or other training providers needed for the student's chosen career. Students research tuition, fees, and other potential education expenses. (ie. GC&SU )

• Housing — Real estate and apartment-listing websites allow students to research realistic housing options and costs in the community where they plan to live. (ie. www.realtor.com)

• Transportation — Vehicle-shopping websites and local dealership websites let students choose a realistic vehicle and determine its purchase price. (ie. www. autotrader.com )

• BBB Business Profiles — Students can use BBB.org to research dealerships and other businesses, review available BBB information, and consider a business's marketplace history before deciding to buy.

• Mileage & Commuting — Online mapping tools let students calculate the distance between their home and workplace so they can estimate monthly commute and transportation costs. (ie. Google Maps )

• Fuel Costs — Students research current local fuel prices and use their vehicle's fuel economy and anticipated mileage to calculate a realistic monthly fuel expense. (ie. Gasbuddy)

• Vehicle Specifications — Manufacturer and automotive information websites can be used to research fuel economy, fuel-tank capacity, and other vehicle specifications needed for transportation calculations. (ie. GMC.com)

• Utilities & Internet — Local providers' websites allow students to research available internet, television, streaming, and other household services and build a realistic monthly package. (ie. Spectrum)

• Cellular Service — Students research current wireless plans and select a communication package that fits both their needs and their budget. (ie. Verizon)

Simplifying the Experience

Pro-Tip: When classroom time or internet access is limited, instructors may provide standardized figures for selected expenses. For example, F.L.A.M.E. may establish a common fuel-tank capacity, fuel price, utility cost, or other --

However, whenever possible, students should research actual costs themselves. The research is part of the experience.

Students aren't simply being taught what things cost—they are discovering what their choices cost.

That is where financial literacy becomes financial application.