Student Experiences and Perceptions according to the Characteristics of the Educational Philosophy of Catholic Universities

Objectives The purposes of this study were to understand the current status of the implementation of the educational ideology characteristics at Catholic universities by investigating student experiences and perceptions of the characteristics of the educational ideology at Catholic universities. Methods For this purpose, a survey was conducted by randomly sampling students at Catholic University of Korea and Daegu Catholic University using an online Google form, and a total of 1,265 people responded. The composition questions included the respondent's demographic characteristics, awareness of the educational philosophy and characteristics of Catholic universities, experience with Catholic characteristics and values ​​in liberal arts and major subjects except for basic essentials, experience in on- and off-campus activities, perception of university atmosphere, and Catholic affiliation. The survey was conducted in a total of eight areas, including awareness of changes after entering university, priority consideration for implementing the values ​​and characteristics of a Catholic university, and overall satisfaction with education at a Catholic university. Results It appears that students experienced and highly recognized the educational ideologies of ‘guaranteeing religious freedom of members’ and ‘Catholic value orientation’ at Catholic universities, and the majority of students had ‘opportunities to learn through liberal arts classes’. It was found that students experienced their identity as a Catholic university through ‘participation in Catholic events on campus.’ In addition, in the Catholic atmosphere of the university, ‘professors’ respect and consideration for students', ‘open attitude toward other religions’, ‘student support (personal, psychological, economic, religious) system’, and ‘religious characteristics of university buildings and sculptures’ Students experienced and recognized the Catholic atmosphere. Regarding ways to realize the values ​​of Catholic universities, students said, ‘Establishment of liberal arts courses that reflect the value characteristics of Catholic universities,’ ‘Establishment of non-curriculum subjects that reflect the value characteristics of Catholic universities,’ ‘Development of university architecture, sculptures, monuments, logos, and mascots,’ etc. was selected as priority. Conclusions Catholic universities allow students to experience and recognize their Catholic identity through education, research, service, chaplaincy, administration, organization, and systems, and to demonstrate the excellence, effectiveness, and value of existence as a Catholic university. Trying hard. This is the original goal that Catholic universities should pursue, and it is the calling that Catholic universities should pursue.