using the life-span approach, starting with adolescence, the stage of development being experienced by the student. Beginning with one’s own stage of development would instill interest and enable identification with the physical and emotional changes that the student is undergoing. Following this is the study of childhood and adulthood. In each unit, the challenges and concerns have been addressed along with the activities and resources necessary to meet these challenges.
For Class XI the ‘self and family’ and the ‘home’ are focal points for understanding the dynamics of individual lives and social interaction. The rationale for using this approach is that it will enable the adolescent student to understand herself/himself in the context of the family, which in turn is nested within the wider Indian socio-cultural milieu. For Class XII, the emphasis is on ‘work and careers’ through the life- span. In this context, work is perceived as essential human activity that contributes to the development and sustenance of individuals, families and society.
Its value is not linked only to its economic ramifications. The student will be helped to explore the significance of work, jobs and careers and their inter relationship. To understand this concept, the student will be imparted life skills and work skills in the respective areas of HEFS. This will facilitate the acquisition of basic skills and orientation to advanced professional skills needed for specialisation in the selected fields discussed in the course.
It is significant that these skills will be useful for the student in her/his personal-social life, as well as serve as a springboard for pursuing a career in the future.