Project Approach in South Korea: Kimchi/Kimjang

Abstract

The authors of this article describe an ecological project approach using food (kimchi) as a cultural artifact to create authentic learning experiences among students. A project approach is an in-depth investigation conducted by children on a specific topic of interest involving curricular content and real-life products and processes. The objective in this experiment is to show how “Project Kimchi”—a topic originating from children's interests—greatly contributed to their active engagement in learning and provided an authentic experience where learning is extended beyond the classroom setting into the community. The findings contribute to research on project-based learning directed at developing desirable dispositions or habits of mind among children.