A Comparative Study on the Perceptions of Learners and Parents on Elementary English Immersion Education: Focusing on A Elementary School in Seoul

Abstract

Objectives The purposes of this study were to investigate the perceptions and opinions of elementary school stu-dents and parents regarding English immersion education in the context of the EFL environment in Korea, in order to understand the role of English immersion education in promoting natural and autonomous language acquisition. Methods A survey was conducted among elementary school students in grades 3-6 and their parents residing in Gangbuk district, Seoul, to assess their perceptions of English immersion education. Independent sample t-tests were performed to analyze the data. The survey instrument covered various aspects of English immersion education, including general satisfaction, learning styles, academic achievement, and the effectiveness of English language skills. Results The results of this study indicate that both learners and parents showed high satisfaction with English im-mersion education, with no significant differences between the two groups. English immersion education had a positive impact on learners and parents in terms of affective domain, learning style, and general academic achievement. Particularly, parents perceived that English immersion education had a greater effect on enhancing learners' learning interest and confidence. Furthermore, both learners and parents recognized the positive effects of English immersion education on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, with differences in perception and effectiveness ranking observed, especially in reading and speaking domains. Both learners and parents showed minimal awareness of the drawbacks of English immersion education. Furthermore, both groups ex-pressed a positive attitude towards the full implementation of English immersion education, recognizing its po-tential to enhance English proficiency and practical communication skills. Conclusions Based on the findings of this study, both learners and parents acknowledge the positive effects of English immersion education, highlighting its potential to enhance students' English proficiency and practical communication skills, thus playing a crucial role in achieving the goals of elementary English education.