Characteristics of Family Life Education in British Columbia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate family life education in secondary schools in British Columbia. It was estimated that approximately half of the secondary schools offered some family life education, primarily in Home Economics and Guidance departments. Most programs were relatively new, were widely scattered throughout the province, and were more likely to be offered as parts of other courses rather than as separate. Wide variation was found in content and organization, both within departments and among departments. Speakers and films were reported to be the most used resources, while class discussions were the most successful teaching technique. Little evaluation of programs was reported. Most teachers had had some training in family life education content areas, but little training in family life education philosophy and methodology. Few generalizations can be made concerning family life education in B.C. secondary schools, suggesting the difficulty of making global statements of support or condemnation for such programs. Suggestions for additional studies are made.