25년간의 조기 영어교육 관점 변화

Abstract

Objectives This study analyzed the changes and direction of early childhood English education (ECEE) according to changes in English education policy by analyzing newspaper articles from the conservative newspaper Chosun Ilbo and the progressive newspaper Hankyoreh from the introduction of English curriculum in 1997 to 2022.
 Methods For this purpose, the study utilized historical research methods based on historical data. By searching for the term ‘early childhood English education,’ 285 articles from Chosun Ilbo and 205 articles from Hankyoreh were collected. These were then classified using Bӧhm's (2004) three-step coding method: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding.
 Results The findings reveal a direct impact of changes in English education policies on ECEE. The periods of Noh Moo-hyun and Lee Myung-bak’s governments saw the highest number of newspaper articles on ECEE in both Chosun Ilbo and Hankyoreh, indicating active discussions on the subject. Despite political transitions, this era witnessed the expansion of English education, introducing diverse methods and media for ECEE. However, the English education normalization policies implemented by Park Geun-hye and Moon Jae-in’s administrations proved ineffective due to the prohibition of after-school English classes for kindergartens, daycare centers, and first and second-grade elementary students. This highlights the influence of government policies on the ECEE landscape.
 Conclusions Chosun Ilbo and Hankyoreh exhibited contrasting viewpoints on ECEE, with the conservative Chosun Ilbo and progressive Hankyoreh presenting divergent perspectives. These distinct viewpoints offer valuable insights for future research in the field.