• Journal of the Korean Geographical Society
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• v.49 no.6
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• pp.970-984
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• 2014

This study aims to inquire into experience of geography teachers participating in a teacher learning community based on the grounded theory methodology. Participation observation was conducted on one of geography teacher learning communities. The total of 11 research participants were selected to conduct in-depth interviews. The data collected were analyzed by the coding method proposed by Strauss and Corbin(1990, 1998). In open coding, 125 concepts, 43 sub-categories and 17 categories were drawn and in axial coding by paradigm model, phenomenon, conditions, action/interaction and consequences turned out. In selective coding, the participants were classified into four types and the condition/consequence matrix was developed. As a result of the analysis, first, participation, obstacles and continuous participation factors of geography teachers in the teacher learning community could be understood from multi-dimensional aspects. Second, principles of the collaborative teacher learning and the factors promoting collaborative teacher learning were established. Third, the professional development of geography teachers through teacher learning community could be understood.