Introduction to the profession of Human Ecology / Home Economics

Question 1

Describe the field of Home Economics:

Answer 1

A holistic, multidisciplinary, systems approach to address complex and practical problems facing individuals, families, and the environment

Question 2

3 Misconceptions About Home Economics:

Answer 2

1. Home Economics no longer exists, areas of specialization broke away
2. Home Economics is only for women
3. Home Economics is only ‘hands-on’ learning

Question 3

Define/explain: the 3 approaches to Home Economics:

Answer 3

1. Technical: teaching/delivering new technical skills to enable families to cope with the daily impact of change
2. Interpretive: helping individuals and families talk about values, beliefs, feelings, etc., which helps them adapt to change and understand why they act in certain ways
3. Empowerment: takes political and social action to redress uneven power relationships caused by oppression, exploitation, and marginalization

Question 4

5 Ways Home Economics meets the challenges associated with globalization:

Answer 4

1. Is multidisciplinary
2. Teaches skills for application
3. Teaches informed decision-making
4. Teaches evaluative and critical thinking skills
5. Empowers individuals, no matter their context

Question 5

4 Possible areas of specialization within the profession of Home Economics:

Answer 5

1. Family Studies
2. Dietetics
3. Consumer Studies
4. Clothing, Textiles, & Design

Question 6

Possible areas of specialization within Family Studies:

Answer 6

Masters of Social Work
Guidance counsellor
Marriage and family therapist
Curriculum planner
Administrator
Liaison officer

Question 7

Identify career options available to Professional Home Economists:

Answer 7

Economists
Policy Analyst
Research & Development
Marketing Manager
Family Studies Teacher/University Professor
Food Stylist
Food Industry Analyst
Foodservice

Question 8

Where do professional home economists work?

Answer 8

Government
Industry
Non-profit / service organizations
Self-employed
Health care
Education
Media

Question 9

Describe 2 professional designations that are possible with a BA/BSc degree:

Answer 9

• Registered Dietitian (RD), Bachelor of Science Honors (Foods & Nutrition) & Internship
• Professional Home Economist (P.H.Ec.), Degree in HEc or Foods & Nutrition, Family Studies, Nutrition & Families, Proof of a course about the philosophy and practice of Home Economics (HE 2222F/G)