FCS, STEM, and STEAM: Two Lines of Inquiry

Abstract

This paper respects the emergent interest in the link between family and consumer sciences (FCS) and the STEM and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) movements. The nature of our involvement with these movements has an impact on future proofing the profession; therefore, two lines of inquiry are proposed. Should the profession (a) serve as a lynchpin that strengthens STEM and STEAM, making them successful or (b) position itself as a collaborative partner with STEAM initiatives, acting on its own merits. Backgrounders for these two lines of inquiry included discussing the controversy over—and benefits of—bringing the Arts to STEM as well as explaining integrative curriculum, interdisciplinarity, collaborative teamwork, and STEM, STEAM, and home economics literacy.