Korean Educational Development Institute(KEDI)

A Study for the Suitability Analysis of Implementing High School Compulsory Education

This study analyzed the suitability of implementing compulsory education in high schools in Korea in order to investigate whether or not high school compulsory education is suitable for realizing present and future goals of high school education and whether or not high school compulsory education offers positive effects on individuals and society in Korea.

In order to analyze the suitability of implementing high school compulsory education, we studied the issues pertaining to compulsory education through literature review and analyzed what had caused students not to attend regular high schools through interviewing teachers and students of alternative high schools. In addition, we conducted a Delphi analysis on the visions and issues of high school compulsory education through surveying many educational experts and professionals, and explored the implications and lessons for Korea through examining the compulsory education systems of other developed countries. Finally, based on the findings of expert consultations, discussions, Delphi surveys, and opinion polls, we developed the model of a set of criteria on which the decision about the suitability of implementing compulsory education could be made.