#Japan #Digital Communication #Chiyoda #Digital Hollywood #University Course

Introduction

Digital Hollywood University (DHU), a certified private university in Japan, has recently announced the launch of a new mandatory course titled "Foundations of Digital Communication," starting in 2026 for incoming students. Located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, DHU aims to merge digital content creation with communication studies through its unique educational approach. This new course emphasizes the theme of exploring the university's surrounding areas, particularly focusing on Ochanomizu, Kanda, Jimbocho, and Akihabara, through a practice called "sanpo," or leisurely walking.

Course Structure

The Foundations of Digital Communication course is designed to engage students actively. Unlike traditional classroom settings where knowledge is simply imparted, this course encourages students to observe and analyze as they explore the neighborhood on foot. By walking through the streets of Chiyoda, students transition from being mere consumers to becoming creators, fostering a mindset geared towards production and creativity.

Key Features of the Course

The unique aspects of this course include:
1. Individual Exploration: Each student is encouraged to embark on their own "sanpo" without a group. This pushes them to think independently, confront challenges, and translate their discoveries into various forms of digital content.
2. Experiential Learning: The course incorporates concepts such as metacognition, implicit knowledge, ethnography, and bricolage, enriching students' perspectives.
3. Progressive Learning: The walking assignments evolve in complexity, beginning with a free exploration of the streets and gradually advancing to focused observational and research walks.

Project Development

In the first part of the course, students document their explorations, capturing noteworthy moments through photography. They then create a photo album—a project where they compile their best captured images, leading to a peer review session where students share their personal interpretations and inspirations. The feedback process further nudges them to grow as creators.

In the latter half of the course, students use the material collected during their walks to produce a digital work. This could involve still images, video, or any other suitable medium, culminating in the creation of a personal project titled "Sanpo and [Subject]," showcasing their unique narratives and artistic perspectives.

Final Presentation

The course concludes with a culminating event held at the Kanda Myojin Hall, where around 300 students gather to celebrate their learning journey. Here, a video representing their collective experiences throughout the semester, titled "Sanpo to 2026," is screened, along with eleven student projects that demonstrate their development through the course. This final gathering not only marks the completion of the course but also highlights the importance of community and shared experiences in fostering creativity and collaboration within the university setting.

Conclusion

The Foundations of Digital Communication course represents a new educational paradigm that emphasizes not just theoretical knowledge but practical application and creative expression. As students traverse their campus neighborhoods, they not only develop a deeper appreciation for their surroundings but also establish a profound connection to their university and its community. The objective to make the neighborhood feel like a second home is a vital takeaway, encouraging students to observe, discover, and create meaning in their daily lives. DHU remains committed to nurturing curious and resourceful individuals who are ready to shape the future of digital communication.

Course Overview

Instructor: Tamio Kihara
Participants: 314 students (220 domestic, 94 international)
Duration: April to July 2026
Total Classes: 16 sessions
Key Components: Lectures, street exploration, photography, digital content creation, project exhibition, feedback sessions.
Main Locations: Ochanomizu, Kanda, Jimbocho, and Akihabara in Chiyoda, Tokyo
Final Event Venue: Kanda Myojin Hall