미국 대학교 한국어 학습자의 동기저하 요인 연구

Demotivation of Korean Language Learners in a U.S. University

The purpose of this study was to explore non-Korean elementary level learners’ demotivating factors for Korean language learning at a liberal arts college in the United States. Based on previous research, this study administered a survey focused on eight key variables: 1) teacher, 2) learning content, 3) exam, 4) value of Korean language learning, 5) attitude towards Korea and Korean culture, 6) difficulties of Korean language learning, 7) lack of confidence, 8) learning environment. IBM SPSS statistics was used for data analysis. The analysis of survey responses showed that ‘difficulties of Korean language learning’ was the most powerful demotivating factor. The negative value which students put on Korean language learning was also attributed to demotivation. Students’ demotivation varied among demographic variables. Students’ answers to open-ended questions also supported most of the identified demotivating factors. The study concludes with possible implications for Korean language programs in the U.S. universities or institutions in a similar environment.