Home Economics in Slovenian Primary Schools

Home economics is a compulsory subject in Slovenian primary schools. It is the only mandatory elementary school subject that is not verified at the national assessment of knowledge. Despite this, it is viewed positively by various stakeholders in the education process. The curriculum aims to equip students with essential life skills and knowledge related to various aspects of home and family life. While the specific 8th-grade curriculum remains elusive, the available information suggests a focus on practical skills and knowledge applicable to daily life.

General Topics Covered in Home Economics:

The curriculum covers a range of topics related to healthy lifestyles, nutrition, health, textiles, consumption, economics, family, environment, and sustainable development. More specific topics include:

• Nutrition, Health, and Textiles: These areas focus on promoting healthy eating habits, understanding health and hygiene, and developing basic textile skills.
• Consumption, Economics, and Family: These topics aim to educate students about responsible consumer practices, basic financial literacy, and family dynamics.
• Environment and Sustainable Development: These areas emphasize the importance of environmental awareness and sustainable practices in everyday life. One example of this is the initiative where schoolchildren revive Slovenia's sustainable culinary heritage by using local, seasonal produce to cook traditional regional meals.

Curriculum Development and Implementation:

The Home Economics curriculum in Slovenian primary schools is subject to ongoing development and updates. Teachers play a crucial role in implementing the curriculum and adapting it to the specific needs of their students. Research suggests that in-service home economics teachers understand the importance of incorporating teachings on sustainability into their curricula.