Building Positive Characters and Teaching Diverse Culture with Folk Literature in Early Childhood Classroom

Koreans have been influenced by the western culture, especially of the United States of America. Educators have become concerned about the prevalence of Disney Characters and other elements of American practice in Korea,... [ view full abstract ]

Koreans have been influenced by the western culture, especially of the United States of America. Educators have become concerned about the prevalence of Disney Characters and other elements of American practice in Korea, especially after the emphasis of learning English and globalization have become a critical part of Korean early childhood education.  In response, Korean early childhood education programs have stressed preserving Korean heritage that is being lost in the midst of emphasizing a globalization of the nation and the influx of westernized educational and social environment

Positive characters are important to possess more than ever as Korea has become a fast developing, westernized capitalistic country. In fact, as the world becomes more of a global community, the good character and deeds portrayed in Korean folk literature are pertinent not only to Korean children, but to children all over the world. Teaching heritage culture and value will be a levy, preventing the disappearance of Korean culture from the powerful wave of western cultural influences, and a key to sustain Korean heritage. Teachers will not only preserve their own heritage, but also further contribute to diverse cultures of all mankind.

We will present how teachers in Korea try to teach their traditional beliefs using folk literature.  Folktales are the world's oldest teaching tools and suitable for children because of their teaching of morals. Folk literature aids in children’s exposure to Korea’s rich culture. It portrays values and beliefs that have guided ordinary people’s lives for centuries. It is beneficial when children are allowed to think and reflect on what they have read. Reading folktales helps children understand the way people have thought, felt, believed, and behaved for generations.