육아정책의 효율성 제고를 위한 유아교육·보육의 협력과 통합 방안

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore models for integrated policies and systems of early childhood education and child care (henceforth, ECEC) in Korea. These policies and systems were developed separately by two government auspices, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. In addition, this study suggests some specific tasks for coordinating and integrating the two sectors.

In order to develop accountable models for integrating child care and early childhood education, an extensive comparison of ECEC in Korea was made with respect to historical background, legal and administrative systems, public support, characteristics of children enrolled, staff, programs, services, and more. Relevant policy studies previously conducted within Korea were reviewed, and successful cases of integrated systems in several developed countries, including Sweden, France, Japan and Singapore, were also examined. A questionnaire survey on the integration issue was conducted with a range of stakeholder groups, including 51 professionals, 21 public service workers in central government and municipalities, and 800 directors and teachers in kindergarten and childcare facilities.

A majority from each surveyed group commented on the necessity of integration between ECEC. They also suggested that a ministry be placed in charge of ECEC integration. Several models for integration at the central government level were suggested by professionals, public service workers and teachers in the fields.

In this study, we provided five models and possible road maps toward the integration of administrative systems. These maps and models were constructed after obtaining feedback from professionals in the fields and by evaluating the advantages and limitations of each model. After considering their serious disagreements, we recommended an integration model which could minimize the conflicts among stakeholder groups. Moreover, we submitted specific tasks to explore before undertaking the administrative integration of the two ministries.

The suggested tasks included integrating the two existing committees of early childhood education under child care under the supervision of the Prime Minister; identifying and modifying the functions of kindergartens and childcare facilities; integrating staff training and qualification systems; and equalizing public financial support and regulatory systems between the two sectors.