NCERT Book Class 11 Home Science Human Ecology and Sciences Introduction

HUMAN ECOLOGY AND FAMILY SCIENCES

Evolution of the discipline and its relevance to quality of life

Let us begin by trying to understand the title of this subject — ‘Human Ecology and Family Sciences’ (HEFS). The dictionary explains the term ‘ecology’ in two ways. Firstly, it is referred to as a branch of Biology that deals with relations between living organisms and their environment. Secondly, it is stated to be a complex of relationships between an organism and its environment. Borrowing from biology, in our context, the ‘living organism’ is the human being, and hence the term ‘Human’ precedes ‘Ecology’.

Through this subject you will be studying about human beings in relation to their environment. Additionally, there will be a study of dynamic relationships that children, adolescents and adults have with the various physical, economic, social and psychological elements in their ecology.

The expression ‘Family Sciences’ is an equally significant segment in the title. As you would agree, the family is central in most individuals’ lives. It is within the family that children are nurtured, so that they develop and acquire independent identities as adults. While studying this subject, the students will be guided in understanding the individual in the context of the family, which in turn is a critical social unit of society. ‘Human Ecology and Family Sciences’ follows an integrated approach in the teachinglearning process. More importantly it deals with the interaction of human beings as members of their families and the society with

the environment. This forms a synergistic relationship with their ecology, which amalgamates within it physical, psychological, sociocultural and economic resources.

In the Class XI curriculum, you would notice that particular attention has been paid to the stage of adolescence, as this period is known to be a turning point in one’s life. Thus, you will study how adolescents develop an understanding of themselves, and what role food and other resources, fabric and clothing, as well as communications playin their lives.

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