This qualitative study was conducted to explore the personal and professional experiences of family and consumer sciences educators (n = 3) who recently participated in the AAFCS accreditation process utilizing the 2010 Accreditation standards. Analysis of the transcribed semi-structured interview data yielded four overarching categories: (a)…

This study documents what pre-service family and consumer sciences (FCS) teachers learned about diversity through observations in diverse FCS classrooms. Students reported that they experienced a change in their comfort level with diverse settings. Student feedback was used to modify FCS teacher education curriculum in subsequent semesters.

The purpose of this study is to investigate family and consumer sciences (FCS) professionals' perceptions of multidisciplinary collaboration in teaching, research, and service. A focus group and survey were participants identified projects, strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions related to collaboration.Topics and projects that incorporated…

This study explores the challenges family and consumer sciences (FCS) faculty face as they internationalize their teaching, research, and service. Challenges to internationalized activity as perceived by FCS faculty include institutional, resource, and personal barriers. Although institutional and resource barriers are considered more challenging…

To ensure optimal standards for AAFCS program accreditation, the Council for Accreditation (CFA) conducted a review and revision of the "2001 AAFCS Standards for Accreditation." The CFA took a three-pronged approach including (a) a review of academic accreditations that had relationships to the FCS disciplines, (b) concept, content, and process…

In addition to general higher education challenges, family and consumer sciences (FCS) programs may confront the possibility of reorganization and/or loss of programs. In Tennessee, eight American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) accredited units have faced these issues within the last five years. Faculty and administrators in…

This study examines characteristics of family and consumer sciences (FCS) collegiate faculty who do and do not incorporate service-learning in their teaching and determines their dominant mode of teaching practice. Survey results from 368 faculty members in institutions of higher education across the United States demonstrate that FCS faculty…

This project gathered information on the important components and features of distance education courseware identified by faculty teaching in the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance. Respondents indicated that they were most interested in features that helped with course management, allowed them to update and post course materials…

This study compared attitudes and confidence levels, regarding classroom nutrition education, of seventh grade teachers of nutrition, family and consumer sciences (FCS), or health education. A 17-item online questionnaire was used to obtain the data from randomly selected schools in Louisiana. Teachers who reported an educational background in FCS…

This article deals with a study on interior design standards in the secondary FCS curriculum. This study assessed the importance FCS teachers placed on content standards in the interior design curriculum to help determine the amount of time and emphasis to place on the units within the courses. A cover letter and questionnaire were sent…

In-depth interviews with four family and consumer sciences teachers indicated that none had been prepared for inclusive classrooms and they had positive attitudes about special education students. Classroom observations revealed some instances where students were not included and highlighted the effect of teacher knowledge and behavior. (SK)

Research on culturally, ethnically, and racially diverse classrooms suggests the following for teachers: develop a clear sense of cultural identity; learn about students' cultural backgrounds; be competent cross-cultural communicators; address divergent thinking and learning styles; use culturally relevant curriculum materials and multiple…

Responses from 122 extension professionals showed that 56% offered programs targeted to specific groups. Deterrents to multicultural programs included lack of time, resources, and limited training; 95% recognized the need to address cultural differences and were receptive to learning about different groups. (SK)

Family and consumer sciences teachers in Georgia (n=183) completed the Stages of Concern Questionnaire regarding implementation of national family and consumer sciences standards. Results showed 36.8% were at stage three, in which innovation is perceived as a threat. Interventions to address teacher concerns were recommended. (SK)

Responses from 71 parents, 147 education professionals, and 199 vocational administrators found general support for teaching the National Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences. More people thought content areas should be taught than believed they were being taught. (Includes commentary by Rosa S. Purcell.) (SK)