Home Science is both a science and an art related field of study which
draws upon many disciplines such as chemistry, physics, physiology, biology,
hygiene, economics, rural development, child development, sociology and
family relations, community living, art, food, nutrition, clothing, textiles
and home management. To a lay man it is a subject about home making and
household chores. The study of Home Science deals with the most vital
aspects of modern house keeping. Home Science, or the science of a home,
in simple words, includes all the things that concern yourself, your home,
your family members and your resources. It aims at getting maximum satisfaction
for you and your family members through the efficient and scientific use
of your resources. The science is aimed at achieving and maintaining the
welfare and well being of home and family life in an ever changing society.
It includes not only nutritional needs of the family members but also
planning expenditure and budgeting resources available to the family as
well. The application of economic principles in relation to income, expenses
and consumption comes under the purview of Home Economics. Home science
aims at developing an individual, its knowledge, attitudes, values and
skills, which guide one to meet personal needs and aspirations of an individual
to become a well adjusted member of the family.
A career in Home Science is best suited for modern women with good aesthetic
sense regarding contemporary arts, home decorations and modern housekeeping.
One can specialize in any of the five streams of home science - Food and
Nutrition, Resource Management, Human Development, Fabric and Apparel
Science and Communication and Extension or have a general understanding
of all streams of Home science. A specialization in Food and Nutrition
provides knowledge of the analysis of vital nutrients in food-stuffs,
detection of food adulterants, planning therapeutic diets, diet counseling
for all age groups, standardizing quality and quantity of food-stuff,
health awareness in community, food preservation techniques, culinary
skills and food processing and canning of food-stuffs. Resource management
deals with management principals and practices, management of energy resources,
consumer awareness, planning and designing of residential and commercial
spaces etc. Human Development specialization deals with the understanding
of the sequential stages of development over the life span of an individual.
Apparel science gives complete knowledge of fiber to fabric and also garment
making. Students learn about dyeing and printing, fabric manufacture,
textile testing, traditional textiles and textile marketing and merchandising.
