Life-skills, literacies and logical reasoning... a Home economics triad

Abstract

Home Economics (HE) as discipline promotes holistic wellbeing across the lifespan and brings life-skills, literacies and logical reasoning to the various learners who experience it. This triadic approach is needed at all stages of life and in relation to myriad every day and one-off decisions we make to function well in our families, communities and the world. "Life-skills" is a term used loosely and typically refers to a set of basic skills acquired through learning and/or direct life experience that enable individuals to handle issues commonly encountered in daily life in an effective and responsible manner. Life-skills are often equated to a suite of skills which are also being underscored as essential for employability. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, creativity, the ability to communicate and collaborate, along with personal and social responsibility that contribute to good citizenship.