Gender dynamics in the choice of Home Economics as an option subject

Abstract

Currently a good number of both male and female students opt for Home Economics as an option subject to study from Form 3 to Form 5. In fact, in 2015 a total of 804 students applied for the Home Economics SEC exam, 237 of which were males and 567 were females (MATSEC Board, 2015). Through quantitative research mainly by questionnaires, this study aimed at exploring why Form 3 secondary school students chose Home Economics as their option subject to study it at SEC level, with special focus on possible gender differences. Furthermore, the researcher explored, by conducting interviews with guidance teachers, what kind of information is being given to students about the different subjects when they are choosing their option subjects in Form 2. Back in 1996 a study carried out by Zahra noted that while girls chose Home Economics for domestic reasons, the majority of boys studying Home Economics at the time chose the subject for their future profession. This study revealed that the majority of the students, both males and females, chose Home Economics because they found it as a very useful subject as well because they are interested in a career related to Home Economics. While males are more inclined towards careers in catering, females are more interested in careers in childcare. Apart from that, it was evident that students received ample information on the different subjects available at their school and also on how to make valid, wise decisions.