아동문학 활용 복합적 문제해결 활동이 초등학생의 영어 발화 및 문제해결력에 미치는 영향

Effects of complex problem solving activities using children’s literature on elementary school students’ English production and problem solving abilities

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of complex problem solving activities using children’s literature on elementary school students’ English production and problem solving abilities. To provide language input and the context of problem solving activities, children’s literature was used. The researcher selected 31 sixth-grade students and taught English lessons using children’s literature. Various types of data including worksheets, journals, problem solving abilities test, questionnaire and interview were collected and analyzed, mainly in a qualitative way. The results of the study were as follows: First, problem solving activities using children’s literature had a positive effect on children’s English production. Suggesting possible solutions for the problem derived from the text, children were encouraged to produce the target language to communicate at their own ability levels. In addition, children were able to logically explore problems, evaluate opinions, and reflect on their lives in their writing. Second, as a result of the problem solving abilities test, there was a significant improvement, especially in terms of confidence and approach to problem solving. Based on the results, the researcher has identified some implications for future educational strategies.