Education Fever: Korean Parents’ Aspiration for Their Children’s Schooling and Future Career Using Q Methodology

• In Event: Educational Change in Changing Times: Beliefs, Aspirations, Leadership, Critique, and Transformation

Abstract

Korean parents set high academic expectations for their children. Utilizing Takeuchi’s and Clark’s theoretical framework and Q methodology, this study explores Korean parents’ education fever: aspiration for their children’s schooling and how socio-economic status influences such phenomenon. Thirty-six parents in Busan, South Korea participated in sorting 47 Q statements. The four resultant factors are interpreted as Autonomy Supporters (middle income), Study Supremacists (high income), and Apologetic Supporters and Value Enthusiasts (both low income). Autonomy Supporters support whatever their children want and focus on extra-curricular activities, while Study Supremacists believe that hard work guarantees quality education and employment. Apologetic Supporters feel guilt for being unable to support their children, and Value Enthusiasts believe that character and value education is most important.

Authors

• Hyeyoung Bang, Bowling Green State University

• Jin Suk Kim, Pusan National University