Analysis of trends in early childhood education research in Korea with practical research methods applied from 2020 to 2024

Objectives In this study, the domestic infant education research trend to which the practical research method was applied was analyzed. Methods From 2020 to May 2024, 76 domestic academic papers that applied the implementation research method were analyzed. Results As a result of the analysis, research at the professional level was mainly conducted, and the areas of application of curriculum changes, educational activities, and teacher expertise were mainly used as research topics. As for the research members, joint implementation research was high, and qualitative research was the highest as the implementation research method. Conclusions In the future, it is necessary to encourage practical research and to be shared with field teachers so that practical research can contribute to the formation of practical knowledge without being biased. In addition, it is necessary to expand practical research by seeking diversity in research methods.