Hyukshin Schools in Korea: Educational Change Toward Whole-Person Education

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Sixteen
  In Roundtable Session: STEM and Sustainable Development Goals (Table 8)

Abstract

Korean students’ high academic performance and low attainment levels of whole person education constructs including wellbeing resulted in stronger demand for education change. Korea’s Hyukshin schools responded to such demands by integrating innovative methods to implement whole person education. We explored Hyukshin schools’ conceptualization and implementation of whole person education by drawing on qualitative data from administrators, teachers, students, and parents. Whole person education consists of developing student wellbeing, self-esteem, career development, meaning and purpose, positive contribution to society, democratic citizenship and academic achievement. Successful implementation was possible through diversification of defining successful students, establishing horizontal student-teacher relationships, and creating a democratic school environment. The study provides insight into how whole person education is interpreted and contextualized in Korea.

Authors

• Stanton E. F. Wortham, Boston College
  Presenting Author

• Clara Dahee Shim, Boston College
  Presenting Author

• Deoksoon Kim, Boston College
  Presenting Author

• Dennis L. Shirley, Boston College
  Non-Presenting Author

• Heiyeon Shin, Boston College
  Non-Presenting Author