파견 영어강사가 본 유치원 영어교육의 모습

Abstract

This study investigates English education in Korean kindergarten from inside through kindergarten English instructors' description of their classrooms. 18 kindergarten English instructors who were affiliated with commercial kindergarten English program providers were interviewed on their 1) attitudes toward English, 2) English studying experiences, 3) kindergarten English teaching methods, 4) understanding of kindergarten learners, 5) opinions on their English programs, and 6) understanding of their teaching position. From the analysis of their description, the following patterns of kindergarten English education are identified: kindergarten English education is under a heavy influence of business orientation; and it is operated under the traditional teaching-centered educational principles. Being financially uptight, kindergartens seek English programs which would not burden their budgets, and this tendency seems to direct the English program developer/provider and the instructor toward business-oriented management of kindergarten English teaching. As a result, English programs offered in kindergarten adhere to teaching-centered methodologies, which are traditionally accepted in Korean society and are not costly to implement. At the same time, the programs are operated to create English classrooms of a set frame which can be characterized as 'presentation'-centered class with the main aim of 'keeping the young learners entertained and occupied.' This study concludes that the kindergarten English classroom described by the 18 instructors falls short of expectations. Finally this study suggests government-level official involvement in kindergarten English education for provision of a proper curriculum and teachers who are trained and certified for teaching kindergarten English.