The Planning Papers on Consumer and Homemaking Education Programs. Vocational Education Study Publication No. 2.

Overview & Synopsis

Three papers focusing upon the beliefs and issues confronting professionals concerned with consumer and homemaking education programs are presented. The first paper "Consumer and Homemaking Education Today" (R. Hughes), examines the questions of content and audience from a curriculum development view. The status of programs using evidence of program effectiveness from existing data is discussed. Suggesting research needed and possible approaches for studies, the paper concludes with implications for programs, funding allocations, and legislation. The second paper, "Assessment of Consumer and Homemaking Education" (A. Cross), discusses criteria for determining the effectiveness of curriculum in consumer and homemaking education. Two major criteria are suggested: meeting needs of the various groups targeted by legislation and the competencies essential for the homemaker. Types of studies needed when evaluating a program are suggested. The paper concludes with a rationale for consumer and homemaking education as a part of vocational education. The third paper, "Legislation for Consumer and Homemaking Education: Social Implication" (E. Simpson), examines the role of consumer and homemaking education in the Education Amendments of 1966, and selected characteristics of the American family and relevant social issues having implication for home economics and for related legislation. The purposes of home economics and the role of such programs in vocational and general education are also presented. The paper concludes with a discussion of future alternatives. (JH)