Bridging the Research Gap: Connecting Students with Professionals in Japan

In recent years, the advent of generative AI has raised new challenges in evaluating student potential and motivation. Traditional methods of assessment, like personal statements, are becoming increasingly inadequate in gauging true interest and aptitude. This shift has highlighted the importance of students’ actual engagement with inquiry-based learning, where the value lies not just in results, but in the journey of questioning, actions taken, and the outcomes achieved.

To combat the disparities in research opportunities across different regions and schools, NEST EdLAB, a company based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is excited to introduce a nationwide educational program. Starting in September 2025, the “NEST LAB. Doctor Course” aims to connect middle and high school students with expert mentors holding master's and doctoral degrees. This innovative initiative seeks to pave the way for more equitable access to inquiry-based education for all students in Japan.

What is the NEST LAB. Doctor Course?

The Doctor Course is typically an individualized online school that operates on Sundays. However, to adapt to the needs of educational institutions, NEST EdLAB will implement this program as an after-school option on weekdays for schools wishing to offer structured research opportunities. Enrollment fees will be determined through individual contracts with participating families, while schools will ensure safety and oversight during in-class activities.

Empowering Students through Hands-On Research

Through the NEST LAB. Doctor Course, students will be mentored by experts in various scientific fields, guiding them through their chosen research topics. The program offers bi-monthly online classes along with support provided via a private social networking service, such as Slack. This will enable students to engage fully in the research process, including theme selection, experimentation planning, data organization, analysis, and finally, presentation of their findings.

Students will have the unique opportunity to showcase their work at a national-level research presentation competition, known as the Science Castle, where poster presentations are featured. This experience will also allow them to develop research skills applicable to oral examinations and other high-level entrance selections at national universities.

Leading the Charge: Nara Gakuen's Commitment

The first educational partner to implement the Doctor Course initiative is Nara Gakuen's Tomigaoka Middle and High School, located in Nara City, Nara Prefecture. Set to launch this program in the 2025 academic year, Nara Gakuen Tomigaoka emphasizes experiential learning, underscoring its educational philosophy of fostering critical scientific thinking skills.

Within the Doctor Course framework, students will collaborate in groups of two or more. Guided by specialized instructors, they will explore their designated research themes. The resulting outcomes are designed to prepare students for nationwide competitions and university entrance exams, incorporating elements such as oral presentations and poster exhibitions into their learning trajectory.

Expanding Research Opportunities Across Japan

NEST EdLAB aims to extend this inquiry-based educational infrastructure to schools across the country, starting from Nara Gakuen Tomigaoka. Many schools are facing challenges like limited connections to research experts and a lack of teachers capable of guiding self-directed inquiries. NEST EdLAB invites such institutions to reach out for assistance.

Educational organizations and local governments interested in this groundbreaking opportunity can request informational sessions or sample classes tailored to their needs. With the goal of nurturing future researchers, entrepreneurs, and societal leaders, the nationwide rollout of the NEST LAB. Doctor Course is set to transform educational pathways for students across Japan.

For inquiries about the program, please contact NEST EdLAB representatives: Ichiji, Fujita, or Nakashima by phone at 03-5227-4198 or via email at [email protected].