과학고 R&E(Research & Education) 프로그램의 참여 경험과 의미: 졸업생 면담 사례를 중심으로

Abstract

It is very important that gifted students in science have opportunities to experienceself-directed and creative research activities in high school. R&E(Research and Education)program as a unique mentorship model of KSA(Korea Science Academy) from 2003 hasbeen developed as one of the most powerful programs in science-gifted high school andscience specialized high school as well. This study focused on how the R&E program asa self-directed research activity has impacted on the research process of the collegestudents having the experiences with the R&E program during their high school life. Forthis study, the individual in-depth interview was conducted to 39 college students andidentified their experiences, benefits, and meanings in the higher level of researchactivities after high school. Participants recognized the significant influence of theexperiences with R&E programs in their high schools in many ways such as cognitive,affective, and technical aspects of their own research at the college. However, some ofthe interviewee from the science specialized high school responded that R&E programhad a little bit ineffective due to insufficient orientation of it and less budget-supports. This research, in addition, identified some deficiencies in operation systems and theprofessional managements of R&E program in science specialized high schools, especially. Based on results of in-depth interview, this study recommends the mid and long termsupport plans reflecting the characteristics of each high school and the local conditionsare needed to develop R&E programs and to enhance the educational effects on doingresearch in science specialized high schools. Providing students with opportunities toexpedite self-directed and creative research activities should be recognized as one of thecore foundations of science and for nurturing future scientist.