생태해설 경험의 상호작용성과 참여자의 사고에 관한 탐색 - 수정된 합의적 질적 연구(CQR-Modified)를 중심으로

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of tourists participating in an ecological interpretation program at an eco-tourism site. Qualitative data from 97 participants were collected and analyzed. Following the modified consensual qualitative research (CQR-M) procedures, a team of four researchers discussed and agreed on the domain and categories into which the qualitative data were organized. It was found that participants' interpretation program experiences were classified into two domains, five categories, and 14 subcategories. The participants’ experience consisted of their interaction with interpretation program elements and their thinking process that integrated the interaction. Participants interacted directly and sensually with the interpreter, resources, and the environment, and such interaction was reproduced or integrated via cultural and physical activities within the interpretation program. During the interpretation program, participants also interacted with other participants who met for the first time as well as their acquainted companions. Meanwhile, the participants' integrated thinking process included reflective and qualitative thinking. Participants' reflective thinking--which analyzes and infers information delivered by the interpreter using their existing knowledge--was integrated into qualitative thinking that evaluates the quality of the current experience and extends it to the future. This study contributed to an enhanced understanding of the educational aspects of ecological interpretation program experiences. Furthermore, by demonstrating the procedures and application of CQR-M in tourism research, this study can help diversify the approaches used to explore tourism experiences.