Through dress codes, schools establish rules governing student appearance. This study examined stated rationales for dress and appearance codes in secondary school handbooks; 182 handbooks were received. Of 150 handbooks containing a rationale, 117 related dress and appearance regulations to students' right to a non-disruptive educational…

Middle and secondary public school educators teaching family and consumer sciences (FCS) in a southern state were surveyed to develop a demographic profile and to gather information regarding their satisfaction with the profession and with their way of life, health, leisure activities, and place of residence. Results indicated that the typical FCS…

This study assessed the attitudes and behaviors of male undergraduates regarding food purchasing and preparation. Good taste, expiration date, and freshness were perceived as important when purchasing food. Family and friends were regarded as helpful information sources when purchasing and preparing food. A majority of respondents wanted to learn…

Universal design is made up of four elements: accessibility, adaptability, aesthetics, and affordability. This article addresses the concept of universal design problem solving through experiential learning for an interior design studio course in postsecondary education. Students' experiences with clients over age 55 promoted an understanding of…

This study assessed the attitudes and concerns of children in grades 1 through 5 regarding their perceived body size and ideal body size, and it assessed their Body Mass Index (BMI) and dietary habits. This study found an overweight prevalence of 11.4%, based on the children's BMI. Most of the overweight students were either African American or…

Financial difficulties have prompted institutions of higher education to explore private sources of funding. In recent years, public institutions have significantly increased their focus on private giving, with several campaigns having more than $1 billion as a goal. Family and consumer sciences (FCS) professionals need to be actively involved in…

This study examined the role of children's story books in uniting generations. Thematic similarities and distinctions depicted in 101 children's story books on intergenerational linkages were examined. They utilized five categories: caring and sharing, fun with grandparents, depiction of multicultural families, relationship with non-relatives, and…

Working collaboratively is complex and therefore draws upon a broader spectrum of concepts, behaviors, and skills than educators and other professionals may be accustomed to. This new era of transformational collaboration expands the traditional domain of working together to one of linking all kinds of groups, leaders, and supporters who…

Over the years, family and consumer sciences (FCS) classrooms have provided education for all students--from the gifted and talented to the mentally challenged. The typical classroom environment is warm, inviting, and realistic. Students work together to apply knowledge to real life experiences. The importance of reading, writing, math, and…

No one learns in isolation; learning must be tied to real life experiences that are relevant to the student. "Integrated curriculum, interdisciplinary" and "multidisciplinary curriculum, teaming, standards" and "accountability" are terms with which every educator is familiar. "No Child Left Behind" is the…

Nebraska, like many states, is facing a shortage of healthcare workers. As a result of this shortage, the Area Health Education Center was formed and the cities of Kearney and Grand Island were selected to develop and implement a Health Care Sciences program for Nebraska. A team of professionals from government agencies, businesses, and secondary…

The ebb and flow of public support for family and consumer sciences (FCS) is a natural process that occurs with all content areas. It is important to understand and know where support exists at the federal, state, and local levels. Today's reality is that resources are focused on reading, mathematics, and science. With the potential consequences…

This study examined the perceived effectiveness of secondary family and consumer sciences (FCS) curriculum in selected areas of Illinois. The targeted sample consisted of individuals who had completed FCS classes in secondary school between 1983 and 2003. The focus of the study was their perception of the usefulness in their current employment of…

"Grandparents University", a program planned and sponsored collaboratively by the University of Wisconsin--Extension Cooperative Extension Family Living Programs and the Wisconsin Alumni Association, was designed to enhance the relationship that exists between the grandparent and grandchild. In July of each year, grandchildren between…

The authors report the outcomes of introducing undergraduate research to family science majors at Zayed University, United Arab Emirates. The program has enriched students' educational experiences and has had tangible benefits. In addition to acquiring research skills, students improved in critical analysis, originality, independent learning,…