Description:

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to evaluate a wide range of textile and nontextile products, from lingerie to china, on the basis of specialized product knowledge. In addition, the student should be able to prepare research projects on selected products. 3 hrs./wk. This course is typically taught in the spring semester.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor’s course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Prerequisites: NONE

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Analyze and compare different brands within one product classification and justify a conclusion on the best value.
2. Prepare and present product information manual on one product classification.
3. Define terms in the different product classifications.
4. Explain criteria for determining quality of various types of merchandise including hard and soft lines.
5. Compare price points within product classification.
6. Identify fashion trends in the different product classifications.
7. Describe how product classification is visually merchandised and promoted.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Class Lectures, In-Class Speakers and Field Trips
   Based on class lectures, in-class speakers and field trips addressing
furs, china, glassware, flatware, pillows, mattress pads, down,
comforters, colored gemstones, diamonds and  pearls the student will be
able to:
   A. Define terms unique to each product classification.
   B. Explain criteria for determining quality in each product
classification.
   C. Compare brands and price points within each product classification.
   D. Identify fashion trends within each product classification.
   E. Describe how each product classification is visually merchandised.
   F. Explain promotional strategies used in each product classification.

II. Comparison Shopping Project
   Based on the product selected, the student will address the following
criteria:
   A. Select a product of choice.
   B. Research and prepare an oral report on selected product choice.
   C. Explain background information on chosen product.
   D. Compare similarities and/or differences of different brands within
chosen product area, including price.
   E. Devise and explain criteria for evaluation of product.
   F. Devise and explain testing procedures of product.
   G. Explain any technical terms relating to product.
   H. Compare results of tests, including price, of different brands
tested within product area.
   I. Justify ranking of brands, including price, within product area from
best to worst.

III. Consumer Product Manual
   Based on the product classification selected, the student will address
the following criteria:
   A. Select a product classification of choice.
   B. Research and prepare an oral report on selected product
classification.
   C. Define terms of product classification.
   D. Explain criteria for determining quality in product classification.
   E. Compare brands and price points within product classification.
   F. Identify fashion trends within product classification.
   G. Describe how product classification is visually merchandised.
   H. Explain promotional strategies used in product classification.

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Points Value:
   In-Class Speakers/Field Trip Critiques 100
   Comparison Shopping Project             75
   Product Manual                         150
   Exams                                  550
   Total Points                           875

Grading Criteria:
   100 - 90% = A 787-875
    89 - 80% = B 700-786
    79 - 70% = C 612-699
    69 - 60% = D 525-611
   Below 60% = F Below 525

Caveats:

1. Students must pass all FASH courses with a grade of "C" or higher for the Fashion Merchandising and Fashion Design degrees.

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.