Overview
This course provides students with the opportunity to develop their understanding of the diverse nature and interdependence of families and communities within Australian society. Contemporary society is characterised by rapid social and technological change, cultural diversity, conflicting values and competitive pressures. Community and Family Studies is an interdisciplinary course drawing upon selected components of family studies, sociology, developmental psychology and students’ general life experiences.
HSC Assessment Structure
The Year 11 course consists of three assessment tasks. Two of these are research based, investigating societal issues within Australian communities; the final assessment is the examination. The Year 12 course consists of four assessment tasks. 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) for one of these tasks. This task is teacher-led; however, it requires students to conduct their own interviews and write both a case study and a literature review.
Career Paths
There are many career paths linked to Community and Family Studies. Students studying this course will find it useful if they want to go into the following areas: nursing, teaching, psychology, sociology, disability work, childcare, healthcare, and law.
Skills Required
Students are required to critically analyse practical life situations and propose thoughtful and creative solutions to these real-life situations. Economic, social, ethical and other factors are considered when making decisions about the allocation of limited human and non- human resources. For students to excel in this subject it is useful for them to be interested in issues that face our society. Students should also be able to work both independently and as part of a team. A sound level of English attainment and general knowledge is useful to help structure insightful responses about a variety of topical issues.
Why Choose It
This course develops knowledge, understanding and skills needed to have a direct and positive influence on the quality of your life and the lives of others both now and in the future. Many universities include Community and Family Studies (CAFS) as a favourable course for early entry to their courses.