Instructional Framework. Essential Elements and Basic Competencies for Vocational Home Economics Education in Texas.

Overview & Synopsis

This guide has been developed for the following reasons: (1) to identify the essential elements pertaining to each vocational home economics education course as mandated by Texas law, (2) to outline the competencies and subcompetencies to be developed in vocational home economics education classes, (3) to provide guidance to teachers for local program planning, and (4) to serve as a means of communicating the scope and content of vocational home economics education in Texas to others. The essential elements represent the core knowledge, skills, and competencies all students should learn to be effective and productive members of society. The guide contains an overview of vocational home economics education in Texas, including both consumer and homemaking education and occupational home economics education. Descriptions of the instructional methods used in vocational home economics education are also provided to serve as options for local program offerings. The guide makes recommendations for class period allocations of time and a list of elements that are common to a number of courses. The guide includes an outline of competencies and subcompetencies to be developed in the respective courses and individual lists of essential elements for the vocational home economics education courses of study. The essential elements to which these competencies relate are also indicated. The competency outlines relate directly to the course content options as suggested in the subject-matter curriculum materials available through the Home Economics Curriculum Center. (KC)