상담전공 특수대학원에 재학하는 성인학습자의 학습경험에 대한 합의적 질적 연구

Abstract

Objectives The aim of the study is to analyze the learning experience of adult learners in professional counseling program based on the expectancy-value theory.
 Methods Focus group interviews were conducted with ten students in the program and the data was analyzed using Consensual Qualitative Research(CQR) method. Consensual Qualitative Research is a method in which a research team consisting of evaluators and one supervisor analyzes data and checks the overall pattern through consensus.
 Results The major results are as follows. First, most of the students had a motivation to go to graduate school by recognizing the intrinsic value such as interest in counseling, the desire to learn, and the utility value such as the second job preparation and center opening plan. However, there was no expectancy belief for success that the degree course would be completed successfully. Second, the anticipated cost before entering the program is the opportunity cost incurred by not being able to participate in work or family life as before and the effort cost from engaging in the program. Despite of the cost perception, they decided to participate in the program. After entering the program, these anticipated cost perceptions partly continued with other newly emerged costs, such as doubts and concerns about ability in counseling and counseling research methodology. Third, emotional support from the interpersonal relationships, interest and mastery experience in the counseling domain were the most influential sources for being continuously engaged in the program, compared to the perceptions of utility values such as obtaining a license or preparing for a second job were dominant before entering the program.
 Conclusions This research allowed exploration of adult learner's various difficulties and sources of continuing study during attending a special graduate school majoring in counseling. Implications for further research and practices were provided.