Designing and Teaching a Culture Course in Korea: Developing Cultural Awareness in the Korean University Classroom

Melanie van den Hoven, School for International Training

Abstract

This Independent Professional Project outlines my process of becoming aware of the interrelationship of language and culture in the Korean University language classroom and the issues surrounding teaching culture in Korea at the turn of the millenium. My decisions, reflections and realizations made as an expatriate EFL teacher based in Seoul, Korea, which helped to address these concerns, are fully presented. This paper reflects on the “culture bumps” inherent in my living and teaching context, and the cultural adjustments made both in the classroom and out. It also explores the major theoretical influences that have been helpful in designing a Culture course for Korean university students. It then presents and evaluates the curriculum and lesson plans that were created and implemented.