This subject Consumer Studies lays a foundation for consumer education that will develop learners into responsible and informed consumers. This will contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of consumers and to the development of the economy and social fabric in South Africa. Consumer Studies also prepares learners to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to produce and market food to satisfy consumer needs.

Consumer Studies focuses on three areas: FOOD AND NUTRITION, CLOTHING, HOUSING AND FURNISHING

Consumer studies as subject gives learners the opportunity to:

  • Improve the quality of life experienced by individuals and communities
  • Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others
  • Collect, analyse and critically evaluate information to acquire the skills to be effective consumers
  • Utilize different sources of product information to make consumer decisions using critical and creative thinking
  • Communicate effectively using visual, symbolic and/or language skills in various modes
  • Recognize environmental concerns and their effect on consumers and producers
  • Appreciate the mutual benefits of working with others as members of a team or group investigating issues, solving problems and producing products
  • Develop cultural and aesthetic sensitivity about food, clothing and housing behaviour patterns across a range of social contexts
  • Encourage positive attitudes towards work and empower individuals to become self-reliant through the application of food, clothing, housing and furnishings, and entrepreneurial knowledge and skills

 

When learner chooses to take Consumer Studies, the following will be insisted on:

  • Learner must always have a positive attitude towards the subjects
  • Be enthusiastic about tasks given
  • Be disciplined towards class work and homework
  • Show respect towards teachers and other learners
  • Always do neat and presentable work
  • Creating a passion to be an informed consumer

 

POSSIBLE CAREERS

Food

Quality manager

Product promoter and marketer

Product developer

Entrepreneur e.g. Hospitality industry

 

Clothing

Fashion buyer and marketer

Quality and product manager

 

Housing

Interior designer

Interior manager and buyer

Housing consultant developer

Entrepreneur e.g. Skills courses

 

Other

Consumer educator

Consumer advisor

Consumer researcher

Capacity developer