The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of craft and gardening-based total craft certification education, implemented as a local cultural experience program, on the psychological changes of adult learners, and to identify the essential mean...
The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of craft and gardening-based total craft certification education, implemented as a local cultural experience program, on the psychological changes of adult learners, and to identify the essential meaning of the experiences felt by the learners. In a rapidly changing modern society, adult learners participating in lifelong education experience repetitive daily routines, emotional fatigue, and a lack of self-confidence; therefore, this study aimed to examine the potential of the total craft program as an alternative lifelong education model.
This study was conducted by applying Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenology method to six adult learners who participated in a local cultural experience program aimed at acquiring a craft and gardening-based total craft certification. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, and the analysis focused on the participants' learning experiences during the program, as well as the emotional changes, self-efficacy formation, perceptions of social participation, changes in educational activities, and the impact of local cultural experiences.
The results of the study showed that prior to participating in the program, the participants experienced lethargy, emotional fatigue, and a lack of self-confidence amidst their repetitive daily lives. However, during the in-depth interviews, participants were found to experience emotional stability as they became immersed in program activities. In particular, participants felt a sense of accomplishment through the process of completing their own works and obtaining certifications, which led to an improvement in self-efficacy. Furthermore, as interaction among fellow learners increased through program participation, bonds were formed among the participants. Additionally, after obtaining certifications, participants recognized the potential to share the educational activities or skills they acquired through their experience with the local community.
In summary, this study confirmed that the Total Crafts certification program, based on crafts and horticulture, brought emotional stability to adult learners, enhanced self-efficacy, and led to a change in their perceptions regarding social participation. These results suggest that the Total Crafts program holds potential as a lifelong education program that alleviates emotional conflicts among adult learners and supports self-realization. This study is expected to serve as foundational data for the future systematization of Total Crafts programs and the revitalization of local cultural experience programs.