Content Analysis of World Folk Dance in Primary School Physical Education Curricula
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Han Ae Jin 
Published: November 2023

Objectives The primary objective of this study is to investigate the significance of cultural education within the domain of world folk dance as integrated into primary school physical education curricula.
Methods The study applied open coding, axial coding and selective coding techniques rooted in grounded theory principles. The analysis encompassed eight distinct primary school physical education textbooks tailored for fifth-grade students, specifically focusing on the segment dedicated to folk expression through world folk dance. The research involved categorizing content by the countries of origin, dance types, and specific dance composi-tions, encompassing a comprehensive scope of 20 nations and 38 distinct dance works featured in these textbooks. This analysis aimed to delve into the realm of folk expression while concurrently examining its relation-ship with cultural education, with a particular focus on discerning patterns and characteristics within the realm of folk dance. Through the autoethnography as a qualitative methodology, this study connects the concepts of dia-spora and cultural hybridity. It explores diaspora space appeared in diaspora festivals and the world festivals that include folk dances.
Results The analysis of primary school physical education textbooks reveals three fundamental aspects of cultural education such as cultural identity, cultural diversity and cultural hybridity within the context of world folk dance. First, Cultural Identity: World folk dance serves as a conduit for students to connect with and express their cultural heritage. It provides a platform for celebrating one’s cultural identity through physical movement. Second, Cultural Diversity: The inclusion of folk dances from diverse nations exposes students to the rich tapestry of global cultures. This exposure fosters an appreciation for the diversity of human traditions, promoting tolerance and understanding. Finally, Cultural Hybridity: Some folk dances exhibit characteristics of cultural hybridity, where di-verse cultural influences merge to create unique dance forms. This aspect underscores the dynamic nature of culture and the interconnectedness of different societies.
Conclusions The study highlights the significance of world folk dance in primary school physical education curric-ula, particularly for fifth-grade students. World folk dance serves as a valuable tool for enhancing students’ non-verbal expressive abilities through physical movements, simultaneously deepening their comprehension of diverse cultural perspectives. By framing world folk dance as an integral facet of culture, the research encourages educators to provide optimal opportunities for students to engage in meaningful expression activities within the realm of cultural education. The integration of world folk dance into primary school physical education curricula enriches students’ cultural experiences and aligns with broader goals such as cultural identity, cultural diversity and cultural hybridity.