In this study, we conducted a questionnaire survey to examine the awareness and cooperation between junior high school teachers and preschool teachers during the home economics Fureai-Taiken program in junior high schools. The focus was on preliminary meetings between preschool and home economics teachers. The survey targeted preschools across Japan that accepted junior high school students for their interactions with the Fureai-Taiken program. Responses were collected from 163 preschools and 788 preschool teachers. The findings revealed an overall lack of meetings within the Fureai-Taiken program. It was also observed that preschool teachers would like to hold more meetings with junior high school home economics teachers regarding the program. Furthermore, preschools in which teachers were aware of close contact and collaboration with junior high schools were more likely to recognize the program’s significance and adopt a cooperative attitude toward it. It was concluded that for preschool teachers to have a positive view of the Fureai-Taiken program and engage cooperatively, it was important to foster efforts not only at the individual level but also at the group level.

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This study explores the occupational views and career decision-making self-efficacy of high school students in specialized home economics courses, aiming to clarify their relationship and provide insights for enhancing specialized education. The results showed varying relationships based on fields of study. In culinary courses, self-efficacy was correlated positively with “self-worth,” “social recognition,” and “interpersonal relationships.” In fashion courses, career devision-making self-efficacy was related to “working conditions” and “interpersonal relationships.” In childcare courses, correlations were found with “self-worth,” “social recognition,” and “interpersonal relationships.” To develop career perceptions, while educational approaches that take into account the characteristics and challenges of each course are required, it is crucial to provide opportunities for students to evaluate their abilities accurately, have access to career-related information, and cultivate diverse perspectives through educational support.

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