#Japan #Tokyo #Taisho University #Toshima City #Unconscious Bias

Addressing Unconscious Bias: A Creative Approach by Taisho University

In a groundbreaking initiative, Taisho University, located in Toshima, Tokyo, has come together with the Toshima Gender Equality Promotion Center to raise awareness about unconscious bias. Utilizing the popular platform TikTok, students from the university’s Faculty of Media Arts have created an engaging video aimed at educating viewers about this critical issue.

Background of the Initiative

On October 28, a group of second-year students from the Art and Entertainment Workshop course at Taisho University released a video on the university's official TikTok account. This project not only highlights the creativity of the students but also emphasizes the importance of social engagement in the educational curriculum. Under the guidance of university president Masahiro Kashiwagi and Toshima City Mayor Miyuki Takawasa, the video integrates trending music from the popular "Ehh Ehh Song" and conveys important messages about unconscious bias in a light-hearted yet impactful manner.

Understanding Unconscious Bias

Unconscious bias refers to the beliefs and attitudes we hold without being aware of them. While not inherently negative, such biases can lead to judgments and actions that inadvertently hurt others or limit potential opportunities for everyone involved. The video seeks to shed light on these subtle but important issues in an approachable format.

The Making of the Video

The process involved students from planning to editing the video, showcasing their skills in teamwork and media production. The students aimed to align the cheerful tone of the "Ehh Ehh Song" with a serious topic, creating a surprising contrast that resonates with audiences. They carefully selected picturesque filming locations and ensured that the audio-visual components were perfectly synchronized, aiming for the highest quality possible.

"We wanted to make a video that was not only eye-catching but also meaningful," one of the student creators stated. Their intention was to engage a youthful audience, encouraging them to reflect on their own potential biases in a way that is both entertaining and educational.

The Role of Education

This project is part of Taisho University’s commitment to practical education through collaboration with local communities. The ongoing Workshop course promotes critical thinking, with a focus on unconscious biases related to gender as one of its themes for the 2025 academic year. Teams of students present their ideas and concepts to solve real-world challenges, blending creative thinking with community awareness.

The video is a testament to the university’s emphasis on developing not only academic knowledge but also practical engagement with societal issues. By utilizing a platform like TikTok, which is immensely popular among the youth, the initiative aims to broaden the reach of important conversations about biases.

Conclusion

Taisho University's innovative approach to tackling unconscious bias through this TikTok project serves as an inspiring example of how educational institutions can leverage modern media to create meaningful social impact. As the students share their insights, they hope that viewers will take the time to reflect on their own biases and work towards a more inclusive society. By raising awareness in a relatable format, this initiative stands to foster vital conversations across the community, ultimately aiming for a future where biases are acknowledged and addressed.

For more details, you can check out the official Taisho University TikTok account here.