What is "home economics"

n. The study of homemaking, including cookery, needlework, cleaning etc

n. theory and practice of homemaking [syn: home ec, domestic science, household arts]

Home economics, also known as family and consumer sciences (FCS) and home science, is the profession and field of study that deals with the economics and management of the home and community. The field deals with the relationship between individuals, families, and communities, and the environment in which they live.

As a subject of study, FCS is taught in secondary schools, colleges and universities, vocational schools, and in adult education centers; students include women and men. It prepares students for homemaking or professional careers, or to assist in preparing to fulfill real-life responsibilities at home. As an academic profession, it includes educators in the field and human services professionals.

The field represents many disciplines including consumer science, nutrition, food preparation, parenting, early childhood education, family economics, human development, interior design, textiles, apparel design, as well as other related subjects. Family and Consumer Sciences education focuses on individuals and families living in society throughout their lifespan, thus dealing not only with families but also with their interrelationships with the communities. Other topics such as sexual education, and fire prevention may also be covered.

Home Economics may refer to:

• Consumer Economics, a field of academic research involving economic analysis
• Home Economics, a subject taught in secondary schools
• Home Economics (Junior Cert), a school course in the Republic of Ireland
• "Home Economics" (Community), an episode of the television series Community

"Home Economics" is the eighth episode of the first season of the American comedy television series Community. It aired in the United States on NBC on November 5, 2009. The episode revolves around Jeff's ( Joel McHale) living situation now that he no longer has the money he earned as a big-shot lawyer and the emotional aftermath of Britta ( Gillian Jacobs) and Vaughn's ( Eric Christian Olsen) breakup.