AI 시대 독서국가추진을 위한 영유아 독서교육 모델 연구

Abstract

This study aims to develop a policy-oriented model for early childhood reading education in response to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital media. As AI transforms educational environments, reading is increasingly recognized as a foundation for cultivating young children’s autonomy, creativity, critical literacy, and holistic development. In particular, shared reading with adults through picture books provides developmentally appropriate opportunities for meaningful interaction and supports children’s emotional, cognitive, and language development. The study analyzed domestic and international policies and practices related to early childhood reading education. Research methods included a review of domestic and international literature and policy documents; an analysis of reading education initiatives implemented by offices of education, public libraries, and early childhood support centers in Korea; comparative case studies of seven countries, including the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, Finland, and Australia; interviews with practitioners; and expert consultations and policy discussions. The findings indicate that Korea has expanded early childhood reading initiatives through Bookstart programs, family reading support, library-based activities, and play-based programs linked to the 2019 Revised Nuri Curriculum. However, policy implementation remains fragmented, with regional disparities in infrastructure, professional expertise, accessibility, and program continuity. International cases demonstrate the importance of integrated national frameworks, community-based infrastructure, family engagement, shared and dialogic reading, and connections between literacy, welfare, and digital or multimodal literacy. Based on these findings, the study proposes an early childhood reading education model that emphasizes process-oriented, play-based, relational, and multimodal reading experiences. Five policy priorities are proposed: strengthening local reading infrastructure; expanding access for underserved and multicultural communities; supporting parents’ and caregivers’ reading capacity; ensuring high-quality book selection and story-time programs; and promoting a sustainable national reading culture and campaign.