Abstract:

This poster presents a comparative analysis of home economics in the public school curricula of 44 European countries, conducted within the Horizon Europe project STE(A)M for Home Economics and Research Exchange. The aim was to map the presence, structure and thematic focus of home economics as a school subject across Europe and identify patterns that shape how everyday life competencies are addressed in different countries.

Home economics is approached as an interdisciplinary field that supports learners' ability to manage daily life, be a responsible consumer and contribute to sustainable living. The analysis was grounded in the position statement themes issued by the International Federation of Home Economics (IFHE). Those key domains include for example themes like food, nutrition and health, consumer competence, sustainability, household management and textile-related skills. These areas formed the analytical framework used to interpret how curricula prepare students for contemporary social, ecological and economic challenges.

The analysis was implemented in spring-summer of 2025 and based on document review of national curricula and syllabi documents, examining whether home economics appears as an independent, integrated, or elective subject. The thematic scope of each curriculum was mapped to identify shared features and notable differences.

Findings show that home economics is included in 24 countries' public school curricula, though its status varies considerably. Out of the 24 countries, 9 offer home economics as an independent compulsory subject. 12 countries integrate it within a broader compulsory subject, such as Technology and Design, or Arts and Crafts. In 3 countries, the subject is compulsory only for certain student groups, depending on school type or institutional decisions. Despite structural differences, strong thematic similarities emerged: food education - covering cooking, nutrition and food safety - is the most consistent component across Europe. Other areas such as sustainability, consumer awareness, textiles and household management reoccur but differ in depth and emphasis. Some regional patterns are visible, with Nordic countries prioritising sustainability and well-being, Central Europe focusing more on practical household skills, and Eastern European and Baltic countries embedding home economics within technology-oriented frameworks.

As societies face increasing ecological, social, and economic challenges, the subject’s interdisciplinary nature positions it as a vital contributor to preparing young people for independent, sustainable and well-informed everyday living. Further research within the SHAREE project will deepen understanding of these variations and support the development of future-oriented home economics education across Europe.

Keywords:

Home economics, curriculum, well-being, IFHE, Europe.