Korean Teaching Methods Based on Cultural Ideas: A New Way to Cultivate Cross-Cultural Communication Skills

Abstract

The decision to integrate cultural awareness into Korean language instruction stemmed from a desire to address real-world issues faced by students within their daily lives and learning environment. Our study investigated participants' experiences with TKSL programs, their perceptions of cultural elements in language learning, and potential strategies for improvement. We adopted a mixed methods approach involving participants at the Guangzhou Korean School. The findings indicate a generally positive view of the current integration of cultural elements, with participants acknowledging their value for deeper understanding, engagement, and motivation. The majority strongly agreed that cultural elements are essential for developing cross-cultural communication skills, and learning about Korean culture enhances their interest in the language. However, there is room for improvement, as some instructors struggle to balance cultural integration with core language skills. Overall, the findings suggest that TKSL programs can benefit from a stronger focus on integrating cultural elements. Collaborating with cultural experts, leveraging technology, and providing ongoing training for instructors, TKSL programs can create a more engaging and effective learning environment that fosters deeper understanding of both the Korean language and Korean culture.