Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS)

FCS 3303. Introduction to Research in Family and Consumer Sciences.

This course examines the social science research process, with an emphasis on scientific literacy for research consumers and the application of evidence-based practices. It provides a foundational overview of the research process, including development and evaluation of research questions, literature review methods, ethical guidelines, and study design. Content includes the use of American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines for formatting academic research papers and interpreting scholarly conventions within social science disciplines.

FCS 4303. Research Procedures in Family & Consumer Sciences.

This course examines advanced concepts underlying research methods and the implementation of research procedures in family and consumer sciences programs. Content includes theoretical and conceptual approaches to research problem formulation, research design, instrument selection and development, sampling and recruitment, data collection, coding, analysis, and dissemination. The course incorporates field-based experiences using appropriate research procedures. Emphasis is placed on research proposal development, ethical standards, and data analysis for academic and professional applications. Prerequisite: FCS 3303 with a grade of "D" or better.

FCS 4304C. Teaching Textile Product Construction.

This course is a teaching-oriented study of the techniques and technologies used to construct textile-based products. Its purpose is to help prepare students for teacher certification and teach textile product construction education content in secondary level FCS classrooms and also to learners of all ages.

FCS 4343. Work-Based Learning Practices in FCS.

This course examines the structure, content, and instructional practices associated with work-based learning (WBL) education within secondary Family and Consumer Sciences programs. Students study course frameworks commonly offered in grades 11–12, including occupational pathways within Hospitality and Tourism, Education & Training, and Human Services. Emphasis is placed on analyzing curriculum requirements, instructional strategies, and skill‑based competencies relevant to these occupational pathways. The course also explores how FCS occupational courses support student development of applied skills, workplace readiness, and industry‑aligned competencies. Students evaluate teaching materials, classroom applications, and assessment methods used in occupational education settings.

FCS 4344. Instructional Management for Family and Consumer Sciences.

This course provides an overview of instructional planning, classroom management, and professional teaching frameworks relevant to Family and Consumer Sciences classrooms. Students examine professional teaching frameworks, including the Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS), to understand how teaching practices are documented, evaluated, and improved. The course emphasizes practical strategies for organizing learning environments, planning instruction, supporting student engagement, and responding to diverse classroom needs. Through structured activities, written analyses, and applied exercises, students develop the ability to interpret professional teaching standards and implement management techniques relevant to FCS settings. The course focuses on developing adaptable, evidence-based instructional skills that prepare students for professional classroom responsibilities.

FCS 4681. Family and Consumer Sciences: Clinical Student Teaching 7-12.

This course provides a supervised clinical teaching experience in grades 7–12, allowing students to apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout the educator preparation program. Candidates work with experienced mentor teachers and receive guidance from university supervisors as they plan instruction, implement lessons, observe classroom practices, and reflect on professional decision-making. The course emphasizes practical application of pedagogical methods, adherence to state certification standards, and development of competencies necessary for independent teaching. Prerequisite: Admittance to the Educator Preparation Program, 2.75 Overall GPA; Additional coursework may not be taken concurrently; For undergraduate students, all other degree-required course work must be completed; For graduate and post-baccalaureate students, all certification coursework must be completed.

FCS 5301. Graduate Assistant Development.

This course provides structured preparation for graduate teaching and instructional assistants in higher education instructional roles. The course introduces participants to institutional expectations, instructional responsibilities, and evidence-informed teaching strategies that support undergraduate learning. Students examine campus resources, professional standards, and common instructional scenarios relevant to graduate assistant roles. Emphasis is placed on professional conduct, effective communication, and instructional awareness. Through module-based learning and reflective assignments, students examine the relationship between disciplinary knowledge and instructional practice in university course settings.

FCS 5311. Statistics and Data Analysis for Family and Consumer Sciences.

This course provides an in-depth examination of statistical techniques commonly used in family and consumer sciences research and practice. Topics include variables and measurement, descriptive statistics, data visualization, inferential statistical methods, t-tests, analysis of variance, chi-square tests, correlation, simple linear regression, and multiple regression. The course includes the use of statistical software for data management and analysis. Emphasis is placed on interpretation and application of statistical findings to inform decision-making in applied settings. A scholarly paper integrating literature review, data analysis, and interpretation is included as a component of the course.