earticle

영어

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different educational methods used in the “Visit Early Childhood Infectious Disease Prevention Class” project by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education. Specifically, it compared a lecture-based method in 2023 with a participatory, play-based approach in 2024 that included home-based extension activities. Methods: A quasi-experimental, nonequivalent control group pretest-posttest design was applied. Participants included 108 children from 68 kindergartens in 2023 and 228 children from 184 kindergartens in 2024. Educational satisfaction was measured using structured questionnaires completed by kindergarten homeroom teachers and visiting health educators. Children’s accurate handwashing was assessed using a checklist, and immunity recognition was evaluated through individual interviews. In 2024, the program was enhanced with interactive methods such as games, songs, puzzles, handwashing experiments using fluorescent lotion, and home-based activities to support parent-child learning. The independent variable was the instructional method. Dependent variables were accurate handwashing, immunity recognition, and teacher satisfaction. The data were analyzed using t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results: The 2024 participatory program significantly improved children’s accurate handwashing and immunity recognition compared to the 2023 lecture-based group (p<.001). Teacher satisfaction also increased in 2024, with higher ratings on content relevance, student engagement, and instructional effectiveness. Conclusion: Play-based health education, combined with home-based activity, was more effective than traditional lecture methods in promoting hygiene behaviors and immunity awareness in preschool children. Visit health education led by experienced retired school nurses may serve as an effective strategy for kindergartens without assigning health professionals.