RESEARCH

Job Analysis of Korean Horticultural Therapists for Developing Specialized Training Using Developing a Curriculum Method

The task with the highest education priority was “fusing horticulture and science technology,” scoring 4.98 on the Borich needs scale, followed closely by “finding an agency” (4.77) and “promoting program results” (4.73). Overall, 26 out of 32 tasks showed significant gaps between current performance and future importance, highlighting a strong demand for updated training in applied technology, interdisciplinary skills, and outreach strategies.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Vocational

Population Groups: General Population, Industry Professionals

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings, Hospitals/Clinics, Rehabilitation Centers, Farms

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Physical Therapy, Social Work, Counselling, Education, Nursing

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Vocational Skill Development, Greenhouse/Nursery Production, AI/Digital Tools in Therapeutic Horticulture

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study aimed to better understand what horticultural therapists in South Korea actually do in their jobs so that future training programs can be improved. Researchers worked with 11 experts in the field to list all the tasks and skills needed for the role, then surveyed 300 certified therapists about how well they currently perform each task and how important those tasks will be in the future. This helped the team identify which areas of the job need more focus in training. They used a method called DACUM (Developing A Curriculum), which breaks down a profession into its duties, tasks, and required skills, to create a structured curriculum.

The study found that horticultural therapists perform six major duties that involve preparing, planning, running, and evaluating therapy programs, as well as self-development and working across different fields. The survey results showed a big gap between how well therapists currently perform certain tasks and how important they think those tasks will be in the future. In particular, therapists saw a growing need for skills in merging horticulture with technology, education, and counseling. The team then used these findings to develop a more advanced, competency-based training program, especially for higher-level certifications.

Link

Kang, K. J., Lee, A., & Park, S. (2024). Job analysis of Korean horticultural therapists for developing specialized training using developing a curriculum method. HortTechnology, 34(1), 116-126

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