미국의 한국어 학습자 의식 조사 연구

A Study of an Attitude survey on Korean Language Learners in the United States

A research on the actual condition of Korean language learners in American universities was conducted. The Korean language learners are divided into heritage learners and non-heritage learners. As Korean language has become popular, the number of non-heritage learners is increasing. The learning period of Korean language of the heritage learners is about eight years in average and that of the non-heritage learners is ten months. One-third of children of overseas Koreans has never visited motherland thus it is necessary to promote diverse motherland-visiting programs to help youth of overseas Koreans have pride in their motherland. The learning motivation of the non-heritage learners is very high whereas that of the heritage learners is low. Thus Korean language courses offered by weekend Korean language schools should be acknowledged by giving valid credits from the office of education and be connected to Korean language courses at college so that they can take the Korean language courses continuously. Kimchi, Bulgogi, Taekwondo, and Hangeul appeared in high rank of Korean cultural items. Education of Korean history is very insufficient thus supplementation is necessary. The work to improve the image of Korea should be done simultaneously for the progress of Korean language education in future.