태권도 수련생 학부모의 품새, 시범 운동프로그램 선호도 탐색

Abstract

Taekwondo is a martial art that occupies a pivotal place worldwide in improving and training the physical strength and health of modern people. However, due to the global outbreak of COVID-19 and the subsequent restrictions such as social distancing and other government measures, it has become too challenging to revitalize Taekwondo on a global scale. In response to the pandemic, the study investigates the issues related to the operation of Taekwondo studios in modern society based on qualitative case studies. The authors adopted the nomad sampling method, a non-probability sampling method, to carefully select their research subjects. It is a method of selecting suitable subjects based on the purpose, subject, or issue of the study. The subjects were parents who chose the Taekwondo gym to train their children for poomsae (defined patterns of defense-and-offense moves) and demonstration, following the widespread popularity of professional poomsae and demonstration educational programs. This study suggests a positive direction for the development of the Taekwondo training program based on the analysis of reasons for choosing Taekwondo and the parents’ preferences. A total of six Taekwondo gyms in an undisclosed metropolitan city were chosen for the case studies, including three focusing on poomsae and the remaining three on demonstration. A total of two parents were randomly selected from each gym that intensively trains poomsae, and two were also randomly chosen from each gym that focuses on demonstration and demonstration kicking. In total, 12 parents responded to the qualitative case study interviews, and the following results were obtained: First, the reasons for enrolling their children in Taekwondo classes included a wish for them to make friends, a suggestion from family or friends, gym’s own promotion, and children’s desire to learn Taekwondo. Regarding the rationale behind parents choosing the current gym, it included the master’s encouragement, proximity to school and home, and the satisfaction with the professional program on poomsae and demonstration. One notable factor was the differences in their perceptions toward the Taekwondo gyms before enrolling; some expected the Taekwondo classes to be rather playful, such as playing dodgeball as a warm-up, but they were surprised to see the systematic professional curriculum. Others chose Taekwondo for its professionalism in the realm of sports. Many responses from the parents affirmed their satisfaction with the changed attitude and confidence gained in their children. Many parents prioritized their children’s safety before any learning goals and wanted children to grow up with good moral standards and acquire various skills through Taekwondo. There was also a conflict between studies and physical training, as the parents desired height growth and physical wellness, as well as academic success for their children. Lastly, in response to the question on children’s career path, there were diverse answers. Similar to above, many parents cared for the safety of their children and identified improvement in the child’s self-esteem and Taekwondo skills as their main reasons for continued training.