외국인을 위한 한국 문화 교육 연구의 현황 및 과제

Present Trends and Prospects of Korean Culture Education Research for Foreigners

The purpose of language education is not solely about teaching of “culture,” but culture education is vitally important since language itself is an essential element of culture as well as its most well-known vessel. In order to cultivate communicative competency in learners, a systematic and an effective approach for culture education is critically important. This paper aims to take an overview of research patterns found in research done on the Korean culture education over the past 20 years since 1986 and changes over time of their variations. It surveys those trends in three constructs: “General Theory on Culture Education”, “Teaching Methodology and Contents” and “Research Materials.” Lastly, I make suggestions for a future direction for such research endeavors. In accounting for the historical progression of research onculture education, I examine holistically the existing research discussions on the matter as well as the effectiveness and value of their contributions. It is also a goal of this paper to draw attention to incomplete and unfinished research endeavors. In regards to the areas in need of more research, they should take on more active and vigorous approaches. Also, there is a dire need for an effort to establish the pillars needed for proliferation of Korean culture education, i.e., selecting those essential elements and implementing a step-by-step approach, since such venture is too great for just one individual to take on. Also, such undertakings should be well supported by the government and their policies.