Crafts and Home Economics Studies Abroad

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to research and analyze the differences students have noted in foreign programmes and suggest ways to development the crafts and home economics teacher education programme in Latvia. Students (n=14) were interviewed and asked to describe any noted differences in the study organization process; indicate the various methods, assignments, and assessment practices used in home economics and craft courses, including teaching practice; and attitude of students towards the study process. Content analysis of the interviews indicate students' suggestions to development the crafts and home economics learning and teaching process, as well changes in teaching practice made by the students. Research results indicate that the students offered more information on differences than suggestions for development. The greatest differences were noted in the acquisition of crafts skills, followed by the organization of the study process and home economics. Student suggestions focused mainly on course content, but actual changes were implemented in teaching methods.