#Japan #Soka #Soka City #Tokyo Denki #Kato Manufacturing

Introduction

In a groundbreaking initiative, Tokyo Denki University (TDU), led by President Tadahiko Iba, has partnered with Soka City, under the leadership of Mayor Yuriko Yamakawa, and Kato Manufacturing Co., Ltd., represented by President Tomoyasu Kato. This collaboration, rooted in a comprehensive partnership agreement, aims to foster children's interest in science and manufacturing through a unique experiential program titled "Machi no Hero Academy: Science Edition."

Program Overview

This educational series, consisting of three sessions, is designed to provide young students from Soka City with hands-on learning opportunities that are rarely found in conventional school settings. Targeting 25 students in grades 5-6 and junior high school grades 1-3, the program aims to deepen their understanding of electricity, public infrastructure, and manufacturing, while also encouraging them to contemplate the future of their community.

Course Details (Three Sessions)

The program incorporates diverse learning methodologies, including university lectures, field trips to public infrastructure facilities, and visits to manufacturing sites, along with group work.

Session 1: July 4th, 2024, at TDU Senju Campus

Topic: "Learning the Power of Oil and Electric Drive Systems through Crane Trucks!"
In this first session, participants will explore the principles of electricity and hydraulics. They will also build model cars to better understand regenerative systems. This hands-on approach aims to make complex concepts more accessible and engaging for young learners.

Session 2: July 22nd, 2024, at Shinkusaka Fire Station (under construction) and Soka City Hall

Topic: "How Are Our Essential Bases Created to Protect the Community?"
The second session focuses on the significance of maintaining regional infrastructure and the roles of municipal governments. Students will learn about how crane trucks contribute to infrastructure development, highlighting the importance of community safety and organization.

Session 3: August 25th, 2024, at Kato Manufacturing’s Ibaraki Factory

Topic: "Discovering How Large Crane Trucks Are Manufactured!"
In the concluding session, students will tour the crane manufacturing process, gaining insights into the vital role these machines play in supporting urban infrastructure. They will also engage with engineers, reflecting on their learning from the previous sessions, and participate in group presentations. Feedback from university officials, local government representatives, and current engineers will provide students with actionable insights.

Tokyo Denki University's Commitment to Regional Collaboration

TDU is dedicated to fostering local relationships through community engagement activities. The university aims to support educational initiatives that promote the fun of manufacturing, emphasizing how to encourage curiosity among students with questions like "Why?" and "How?" TDU leverages its educational and research strengths to collaborate closely with local communities in nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals. Initiatives such as the D-SciTech Program, along with hands-on electronics workshops and scientific experiments for middle school and elementary students, serve as avenues for promoting both the enjoyment of making things and the importance of inquiry-based learning.

By working together with local governments, industries, and educational institutions, TDU is taking a significant step towards preparing youth for a technology-driven future.