Content Analysis of the Mesozoic Geology of the Korean Peninsula in Earth Science II Textbooks: Focusing on Consistency within and among Textbooks, and with Scientific Knowledge

Geological information on the Korean Peninsula plays a significant role in science education because it provides a basic knowledge foundation for public use and creates an opportunity to learn about the nature of geology as a historical science. In particular, the Mesozoic Era, when the Korean Peninsula experienced a high degree of tectonic activity, is a pivotal period for understanding the geological history of the Korean Peninsula. This study aimed to analyze whether content regarding the geology of the Mesozoic Era are reliably and consistently presented in the 'Geology of the Korean Peninsula' section of Earth Science II textbooks based on the 2015 revised curriculum. Four textbooks for Earth Science II were analyzed, focusing on the sedimentary strata, tectonic movement, and granites of the Mesozoic Era. The analysis items were terms, periods, and rock distribution areas. The consistency within and among textbooks and of textbooks and scientific knowledge was analyzed for each analysis item. Various inconsistencies were found regarding the geological terms, periods, and rock distribution areas of the Mesozoic Era, and suggestions for its improvement were discussed based on these inconsistencies. It is essential to develop educational materials that are consistent with the latest scientific knowledge through collaboration between the scientific and educational communities.