The article, “Finding a place for tradition in the curriculum: a case study for sewing in the Ohio family and consumer sciences classroom,” investigated the importance of traditional domestic practices, such as sewing the modern society. The study aims at assessing the prevalence of clothing and textiles within the Ohio secondary classroom with an attempt to identify how this information can inform future FCS teachers in determining curriculum. The study found that many secondary schools offer sewing within the curriculum with the aim of developing practical skills among students. The study concludes that sewing, as well as other aspects of textile and clothing should be integrated in training Ohio FS teachers with the aim of preparing them for the real-world classroom.
Incorporating traditional economic activities such as sewing in the curriculum gives students the knowledge on how to properly run a family environment and make the world a better place for future generations. This makes it essential to equip educators with education in FCS and include sewing module in the educational curriculum. According to the example presented in the study about Mary, educational curriculum do not include clothing construction in their courses, which makes it hard for teachers to impart the knowledge effectively to students. The study advocates for ways of dislodging the negative stigma assigned to needlework. The researchers attribute this to the myth that girls were taught sewing as an initiation into marriage.
In conclusion, there is a rich and proud history of family and consumer science which should be incorporated in the current and future curriculum. As such, FCS professionals should acknowledge and value the multiple disciplines that constitute the profession of FCS. However, there is need to continually update and adapt the curriculum for the modern world.
Reference:
Werhan, R. C. & Vollmer, J. L. (2004). Finding a place for tradition in the curriculum: a case study for sewing in the Ohio family and consumer sciences classroom. Journal of Family and Consumer Sciences Education, 22, 1.
