중국 언어 문화 배경 한국어 학습자를 위한 한국어 즐거움 척도 타당화 연구

Abstract

This study developed and validated a Korean Language Enjoyment Scale specifically designed for students with a Chinese language and cultural background attending Korean language institutes in South Korea. Unlike previous research that applies general Foreign Language Enjoyment Scales or Korean Enjoyment Scales to diverse learner populations, this study addresses the unique linguistic, psychological, and sociocultural contexts of learners from Chinese language and cultural backgrounds by adapting and refining scale items accordingly. Quantitative data collected from 394 participants were analyzed via exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, confirming a reliable two-factor structure comprising “Psychological Support and Achievement” and “Classroom Atmosphere and Enjoyment.” Furthermore, qualitative content analysis of 248 open- ended responses provided contextual and construct-related evidence for the scale’s validity, highlighting key contextual factors such as positive teacher feedback, alleviation of fear of making mistakes, peer collaboration, and diverse classroom activities as central contributors to learners’ enjoyment. By combining large-scale empirical validation with culturally responsive methodological adaptations and mixed- methods analysis, this study underscores the imperative for contextually grounded measurement tools in second language research and offers a validated instrument to support emotional safety, relational support, and active engagement among learners with Chinese language and cultural backgrounds.