Technology and home economics

This research is an investigation into the changes taking place within Home Economics, as it moves into Technology in the National Curriculum. Its objectives are to investigate: the concept of Technology in Home Economics; existing practice in schools (1989-90); the planning and preparation undertaken for the delivery of Technology; classroom practice; evaluation of materials produced; resources. There are 12 schools in seven LEA's involved in the Project, three primary and nine secondary. The main focus has been year 7, although work in year 1, year 6 and year 10 has also been looked at. The work has consisted mainly of classroom observations. It is hoped this will lead to findings which show the factors which support curriculum change, and how these can be encouraged. The observations continue until December 1991. The work is funded by the All Saints Educational Trust and based at Sheffield City Polytechnic. This project started in January 1989, funded for three years by the All Saints Educational Trust, a London-based trust which provides financial assistance to projects in religious education and Home Economics. The main purposes of the Project are to investigate the development of Home Economics, following the introduction of National Curriculum Technology, and to support teachers during this time of change. It is a curriculum development project as well as a research one.