English Proficiency Development as an On-Going Process for KoreanAdults

The purpose of this study is to investigate the perception that Korean adults are still obliged to keep on studying English even after their school years are completed. This study also attempts to discuss the circumstance of Korean adults’ English learning from an andragogical view which is differentiated from a pedagogical angle. 40 Korean adults including 20 university students were interviewed and surveyed about their English learning histories in secondary school, university, and their current English learning environment as well. They revealed their self-awareness about the language skills they value in real life, and the burden they feel using English. It is concluded that the communicative language learning environment with andragogical consideration to nurture communicative potential should be adapted to teach and learn English eventually in Korea.