Repository: UIHistories Project: Dedication - Home Economics Newspaper [PAGE 10]

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Release After M a r c h 15, 1957

Home Economics Courses Prepare Students For Interesting Jobs

Classroom instruction in the depart ment of home economics has changed since 1870 when the University of Illinois catalogue first listed a "Ladies* Department" At that time it was noted that "the trustees have voted to admit female students' as soon as suitable accommodations can be provided." During the next 30 years, the educational needs- of women JPOceived increased attention. In 1900, Isabel Bevier established a new department with a new name —--Household Science, and one of the first courses dealt with lectures on home heating, plumbing, and lighting. Today's home economics coed can select courses covering a wide variety of subjects in many fields. In these courses, theory and practice are expertly combined to give students balanced training needed for careers of their choice. Curricula leading to the A.B.. B.S., or M.S. degrees in home economics with the various course offerings are ; organized under live major divisions of the department These, include Child Development and Family Relationships, Foods and Nutrition, Home Management, t Institution Management, and TexI tiles and Clothing.. In addition, students may major in Home Economics Education and Restaurant Management In classrooms and student laboratories, the \v ords "m o d em," "functional." a n d "convenient" probably best describe the facilities and equipment. Special clothing construction units for example, are designed to give each student her own sewing machine, pressing and cutting space, and equipment. In one laboratory, two units can be moved for demonstrations. Storage space is provided for dress forms, and each laboratory has its own fitting room for student use. A special workroom allows students to do outside work in clothing construction. Home furnishings and housing laboratories are designed to give students practical experience in room arrangement and space use. In these areas, students design interiors of homes, choose colors, and decide on wall and floor finishes. One room, is equipped with adjustable partitions so students can "test" their ideas of furniture and room arrangements. An ultra-modern cafeteria serving daily luncheons to students, staff members, and townspeople provides students in institution management with a practical food service laboratory.