Introduction to Home Economics and Professionalism

Melvin Dewey & Wilbur O. Atwater (Early Home Economics): - Melvin Dewey: Sponsored the first Lake Placid conference, but narrowed home economics classifications in the library system, causing recognition issues. - Wilbur O. Atwater: Hired home economists, published their research, and expanded extension services for rural women. - Historical Impact on Home Economics: - Great Depression: Increased demand for home economics skills focusing on resourcefulness, food preservation (canning), and utilizing available food (e.g., cakes without sugar). - World War II: Shift of women into the workforce created a need for home economics support in childcare and meal preparation as traditional roles changed. - Defining Professionalism: - Traditional views emphasized being "well-educated," "well-spoken," "well-dressed," "well-groomed," and "well-behaved." - Modern view prioritizes integrity, honesty, competence, reliability, trustworthiness, ethics, due diligence, perseverance, and a willingness to listen and learn. - There is no universal definition; it varies by culture, religion, and population; a shift is needed away from the "Western, white, heteronormative male elite" definition. - Authenticity, rather than strict adherence to appearance codes, is gaining importance, especially with AI advancements. - Professional Responsibilities & Ethics: - Professionals are governed by a code of ethics and commit to competence, integrity, morality, and altruism (selfless concern for public good). - Confidentiality is a core principle, but it is overridden when there is a duty to report to protect society (e.g., reportable diseases like measles, criminal acts like abuse). - Professionals are expected to uphold ethical behavior and professional values continuously, beyond the workplace. - Key Competencies for Professionals: - "Helping professionals" (e.g., human ecology, dietetics) involve teaching, advising, treating, counseling, and advocating. - Competencies include: - Hard Skills: Foundational knowledge and content-related expertise (e.g., food and nutrition expertise). - Soft Skills: Values, behaviors, and attitudes such as communication, collaboration, management, leadership, professionalism, ethics, teamwork, public speaking, problem-solving, organization, time management, and emotional intelligence. - Soft skills are considered equally or more critical than hard skills for professional success. - Development of soft skills occurs through various experiences beyond academia (e.g., volunteering, part-time jobs, team activities). - Attitudes: - Attitudes are continually shaped by life experiences and significantly impact one's philosophy. Self-awareness of one's attitude is essential for professional growth.