Bucheon's Wonmi Library, in collaboration with the National Library for Children and Young People, has successfully launched "Dugun Dugun," a special summer reading program. Running from August 5th to August 8th, this program aims to boost reading interest and foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills for middle and elementary school students.

Metaverse-Based Reading Debates: A New Era of Reading Education 

The "Metaverse-Based Reading Debate Program" for middle school students, selected as a project by the National Library for Children and Young People, will run for three sessions from August 5th to 7th. Twelve participating students will receive three free books, including "Teenagers Who Know a Bit About AI," to read in advance. They will then engage in lively discussions on the metaverse platform "Woojoo Talk."

These discussions will cover timely and important topics such as "AI's Creative Activities," "Juvenile Delinquency," and "Robot Tax." Students will have the opportunity to freely exchange opinions and develop logical thinking skills in a virtual space. Metaverse platforms like "Woojoo Talk" go beyond simple text-based communication, offering interactive experiences through avatars and immersive virtual environments, which deepen the discussions. This helps students actively explore and critically think about topics closely related to reality, such as copyright issues with creations due to the development of AI technologies like ChatGPT, societal discussions on the surge in juvenile delinquency, and the need to introduce a robot tax in preparation for the future. This metaverse-based reading debate is considered an innovative educational method that can simultaneously foster the digital literacy and collaboration skills necessary for the future.

Summer Reading Classroom: Expanding Thoughts Through Fairy Tales 

The "Summer Reading Classroom" for 15 fourth-grade elementary school students will operate for four sessions from August 5th to August 8th. Participating children will listen to four fairy tales, including "I Can See Gases," and have time to freely express their feelings and thoughts inspired by the books.

This program goes beyond simply reading books, focusing on stimulating children's imaginations and fostering emotional connection through vivid storytelling by professional narrators. By understanding the characters and situations in the fairy tales, children can improve their critical thinking and creative expression skills through various activities, such as vocalizing and drawing their thoughts. Based on high attendance and active participation, participants will receive completion certificates and souvenirs. Notably, outstanding participants will be awarded the National Library for Children and Young People Director's Award, further motivating them to read. This is expected to positively influence children to perceive reading as an enjoyable activity and develop a habit of consistently engaging with books.

Participation Application and Expected Outcomes 

Applications for the metaverse program began on July 8th at 10 AM, and applications for the summer reading classroom started on July 15th, both through the Bucheon City Library website (www.bcl.go.kr). An official from Wonmi Library stated, "We hope that participants will develop logical thinking and respect for others' opinions through various reading programs," adding, "We will continue to create a reading environment where children can joyfully engage with books and discussions."

The "Dugun Dugun" program is expected to go beyond simple reading education, contributing to the enhancement of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and digital competencies necessary for the Fourth Industrial Revolution era. In particular, the reading debate utilizing the new metaverse platform sets the direction for future education, providing a platform for children and adolescents to actively explore knowledge and communicate with each other. Bucheon's Wonmi Library will lead the way in revitalizing the local reading culture and supporting the healthy growth of future generations through such innovative programs. More details about the program can be found on the Bucheon City Library website or by contacting Wonmi Library at 032-625-4736.

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