The Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) has released a draft paper outlining proposed developments of the Australian Curriculum for the teaching of business and economics.

 

The Shape of the Australian Curriculum: Business and Economics paper was welcomed by Federal Minister for School Education Peter Garrett.

 

“The release of the draft paper for economics and business is another step forward in the development of the Australian Curriculum,” Mr Garrett said.

 

“Business and economics are fundamental life skills and the new curriculum will help students make informed decisions about consumer issues, and manage money and assets to improve financial wellbeing."

 

The paper was developed through the input of a number of key stakeholders, including state and territory education authorities, teachers associations, schools, businesses and universities.

 

The draft economics and business paper proposes the curriculum focuses on four overarching concepts:

 

  • Resource allocation and making choices
  • Consumer and financial literacy
  • Enterprising behaviours and capabilities
  • Work and business environments.

 

ACARA will use feedback on the paper to guide the writing of the draft Australian Business and Economics Curriculum, which will be released for public consultation next year.

 

Once the curriculum is endorsed by states and territories it will be available for implementation in classrooms.

 

The consultation period runs from 6 August to 12 October 2012. Copies are available at http://www.acara.edu.au.