Rationale
Commerce is the study of consumer, financial, economic, business, legal, political and work issues. It provides the knowledge, understanding, skills and values that form the foundation on which young people make sound decisions.
The Commerce 7–10 Syllabus equips students to make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives as members of a democratic society. Students develop an understanding of economic, business and legal processes that enables them to build their consumer and financial literacy skills. Through this understanding students can participate in and contribute to the economy.
Students learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and the contributions made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to the economy, including enterprises established by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities. They develop an understanding of Aboriginal Customary Lore and its significance. Exploration of these perspectives encourages students to embrace an understanding of Cultural and social diversity. This inclusive approach nurtures students’ respect for diverse Cultural Knowledges and promotes a holistic understanding of society.
Through studying Commerce 7–10, students develop an understanding of the relationships between consumers, businesses and governments in the economy. As they investigate these relationships, they learn to apply problem-solving strategies which incorporate the skills of analysis and evaluation. Students are provided with the opportunity to apply critical and creative thinking to their investigations, which can foster the development of an entrepreneurial mindset.
Students learn skills in researching, evaluating, and independent and collaborative decision-making. These skills enable them to participate in the community, contribute to society as active and informed citizens, and develop into self-directed and lifelong learners.
Commerce 7–10 provides opportunities for students to transfer their knowledge, understanding and skills to a range of contexts and make informed decisions about their future. The study of Commerce promotes students’ awareness of the impact of the forces of change, including rapid changes in technology, changes to the nature of work and workplaces and the increasing global economic interdependence of countries. The syllabus prepares students to navigate education and work transitions, and to develop the agility to deal with change.
Students are empowered to be proactive and to develop values and attitudes that promote ethical behaviour and social responsibility. Students also expand their understanding of the importance of contributing to a more just and equitable society.