Community and Family Studies utilises an ecological framework to investigate the interactions among the individual, family, community and society.
Recognition of the interdependence of the individual and other groups is central to the framework.
The syllabus focuses the Preliminary course on the individual and their interactions with personal groups, family and community.
The HSC course builds upon this by examining how the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities is affected by broader societal influences including sociocultural, economic and political factors.
Community and Family Studies can have a direct and positive influence on the quality of students' lives both now and in the future.
During the school years, students are confronted with an awareness of their emerging identity as young women and young men.
Community and Family Studies investigates the unique contributions of individuals, groups, families and communities in the development of effective social structures.
The course encourages opportunities for students to become proactive members of society as they examine both their potential to adopt a range of roles and the responsibilities they have in contributing to society.
The dynamic nature of this area of study places particular importance on the skills of inquiry and investigation.
Research is an integral component of this subject.
Students are required to develop and utilise research skills in planning, collecting, recording, interpreting, analysing and presenting as they employ various research methodologies to complete an Independent Research Project (IRP).
Community and Family Studies explores life issues that are important to all young people and of equal relevance to female and male students.
The topics investigated and the emphasis on research ensures a course that is attractive to many students, with the capacity to challenge and extend all students' ability levels.