A Survey of Existing Consumer Education Practices in New Jersey Schools.

The objectives of the survey reported in this publication were to gain insight into existing consumer education practices in New Jersey public schools and to provide information helpful in the development and improvement of consumer education programs. Findings from questionnaires mailed to a random sample of local school superintendents showed that consumer education was practically nonexistent in elementary schools and only occasionally available in middle schools. Relatively comprehensive coverage was provided at the high school level through courses in home economics, business education, and distributive education, with some emphasis on consumer education in other disciplines. But consumer education was not generally considered important enough to be included in the educational programs of all students; only about one-third of the students in New Jersey's public schools had the opportunity to develop consumer skills through formal education programs. The survey indicated a need for more curriculum development, resource materials, and teacher expertise so that all disciplines in the elementary and secondary school curriculum would be involved in consumer education. Tabulated data from the survey give responses by grade level, subject area, and consumer concept. (MF)