부산시 중학교 자유학기제 운영실태 및 문제점: 체육활동을 중심으로

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the current status of free semester-based physical education (PE) classes, PE activities, and career activities in order to identify problems and to suggest new directions for the program operating at middle schools located in Busan. To achieve this goal this study surveyed the 2016 ‘Plan for Free Semester Operation’ and ‘Plan for Education’ at 164 of the 172 middle schools located in Busan Metropolitan City. Additionally, using purposeful sampling among the types of non-probability sampling, this research included in-depth individual interviews of 12 PE teachers. According to the results examining problems in program based on the actual status of operation and teachers’ recognition, the first problem was the lack of PE-related career education. Among the middle schools surveyed only 70 provided PE-related career education, and lack of diversity in the places providing this experience was reported. Teachers were aware of the necessity of PE-related career education, but programs or information was not being provided. Second, contrary to its original purpose, free semester-based PE activities were operating in the same way as sports clubs. Without a clarity of the objectives of the free semester system, previous educational methods or contents were being adopted ineffectively. Third, due to the lack of facilities and space, students’ choice of activities could not be guaranteed, and teachers had difficulty preparing a time table. Since the free semester system is still in the initial stages, there was some confusion due to the trial and error application of the program. However, to ensure PE classes and PE activities correspond to its original purpose, student participation and information related to career options need to be improved.