#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Kurashiki Seiryo High School #Data Science Club

Strengthening Research Activities: Okayama University's Collaboration with Kurashiki Seiryo High School

Okayama University, located in Okayama City, Japan, has been actively supporting students' research activities at Kurashiki Seiryo High School for several years. This initiative is particularly aimed at enhancing the school's comprehensive inquiry periods, allowing students to explore broader topics effectively. Since its inception in 2022, the collaboration has grown to its fourth year, significantly impacting student learning experiences.

On July 9, 2025, seven students and graduate students from Okayama University's Data Science Club (DS Club) visited Kurashiki Seiryo High School to provide consultation and guidance on issues such as research topic selection and activity planning. This ongoing support system is crucial in promoting active learning among students. During this session, the DS Club members assisted students with various aspects of their research projects, including formulating questions, gathering information, conducting analyses, and preparing presentations.

This visit marks the second of three scheduled for the academic year, demonstrating the university's commitment to continuous support to enhance the quality of the high school students' research activities. Following the success of this collaborative model, Okayama University has seen its approach expand, reaching various high schools throughout the Okayama region, exemplifying its dedication to fostering inquiry-based learning.

The partnership with Kurashiki Seiryo High School is also a reflection of Okayama University's initiative to support "DX High School" programs. This collaboration is a cornerstone for the university, which aims to nurture the next generation of researchers by intertwining academic learning with practical inquiries.

A notable outcome of this initiative emerged when students from the program transitioned into Okayama University and became part of the DS Club. They are now in positions to support current high school students, creating a virtuous cycle of mentorship and growth. This development not only highlights the impact of the university's support on individual students but also illustrates the broader implications of academic collaboration.

Kurashiki Seiryo High School principal Hiroaki Izumi commented on the collaboration, stating that this year eight fields across 98 groups are being explored by students. Many of these topics are complex areas that would be challenging for students to investigate independently or fall outside the expertise of the high school's faculty. The involvement of the DS Club students has accelerated the students' progress in their inquiries, allowing for deeper exploration and understanding. Mr. Izumi noted the effectiveness of tools such as Slack, which facilitate easy communication and inquiry with the university's students.

Moving forward, Okayama University is dedicated to aligning its support with the needs of high school teachers and students, fostering a transformative environment that encourages the growth of both university students and high school faculty. The enhancement of inquiry activities and the DX High School initiative are key components of this ongoing effort. The university encourages local communities to remain engaged and look ahead to more innovative projects that shape the educational landscape.

For more information about the collaborative programs and projects ongoing at Okayama University, individuals can visit Okayama University's official website.

Additional Context

• - The Data Science Club of Okayama University has been a vital resource for high school students looking to deepen their research skills.
• - This initiative is part of a larger educational framework that embraces inquiry-based learning as a pillar of academic success.
• - Okayama University is recognized for its innovative approach to education, receiving accolades for its commitment to sustainable development and community engagement.