The Understanding of Kindergarten Children about the Transition to Elementary School

초등학교 입학에 대한 유아의 이해

Using qualitative methods of interviewing, documentation, and participant observation, this study explored kindergarten children's understanding on their transition into elementary school. Phenomenologically, results showed that children understood that the transition into elementary school means thrownness (Geworfenheit) and projection (Entwurf). When children answered the question about why they want to go to elementary school, their responses demonstrated an understanding of the inevitability (thrownness) of transition. That is, they understood that entering elementary school was an unavoidable step for growing up. They expected(projected) that they would enjoy new activities and opportunities in elementary school. While they felt anxious about stem teachers and difficult studies, they looked forward to intellectual development, various indoor activities, outdoor exercises, and multi-layered encounters.