Home Economics Education: A Review and Synthesis of the Research, Fifth Edition. Information Series No. 313.

Overview & Synopsis

This fifth edition of a review and synthesis of research in home economics education covers the period from 1979 through 1985. The review covers research found in the ERIC database, the Comprehensive Dissertation Index, and professional journals, as well as from solicitations to the field. Criteria for selection include validity and reliability of measurement, appropriate observation and analysis, quality of sampling design and sample response rate, innovative or interdisciplinary approach, and critical or emerging subject matter. This publication covers the following aspects of home economics education: (1) administration (supervisory practices, enrollment and recruitment, and public relations, perceptions, and image); (2) professional roles; (3) needs and characteristics of learners; (4) curriculum (nature, content, and structure; factors affecting content and design); (5) instruction (higher education, consumer and homemaking, and occupational home economics); (6) evaluation, including instrument development; (7) entrepreneurship; and (8) recommendations for further research. A summary highlights future directions for home economics education. An extensive bibliography of the cited studies concludes the document. A 20-page list of references concludes the document. (SK)