#Japan #HADO #Meleap #Shikokuchuo

Shikokuchuo City Triumphs at the 8th Japan ICT Education Award

Shikokuchuo City has made a significant mark in the field of education technology by winning the Minister of Internal Affairs Award at the recent 8th Japan ICT Education Award. This achievement highlights the city’s integration of HADO, a cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) sports program, into its educational framework. The award recognizes innovative approaches that connect education with ICT, and Shikokuchuo's unique methodologies stand out in this respect.

HADO's Implementation in Schools

In recent years, the Municipal Elementary School of Kawanoe in Shikokuchuo has adopted HADO in its physical education classes and club activities. This implementation aims to create an inclusive environment where all students can engage in physical activities without the limitations often associated with traditional sports. By utilizing HADO, which blends physical activity with digital technology, the school creates opportunities for participation and enhances students' engagement.

Addressing Attendance Challenges

One notable outcome of integrating HADO into the school's curriculum is its positive influence on student attendance. Reports indicate that students who previously exhibited reluctance to attend school have shown enthusiasm to come in specifically for HADO activities. Many children expressed their desire to attend school on designated HADO days. This shift signifies not just an increase in attendance but also an enhancement in overall student well-being.

Additionally, the collaboration and teamwork fostered through HADO games have helped students develop a sense of belonging. As students contribute to team efforts, their self-esteem improves, reinforcing a positive mindset toward school attendance. These small but impactful changes contribute to a collective reduction in absences across the student body.

Enhancing Communication Skills

HADO's design also nurtures essential skills beyond physical engagement. Teachers have observed improvements in communication among students, particularly as they learn to discuss rules and strategies with one another. For example, a sixth-grade student demonstrated newfound confidence by effectively explaining game plans to community members. The very structure of HADO requires dialogue and teamwork, thereby inherently developing students' critical thinking and expressive abilities in an enjoyable manner.

The Role of HADO in Education

The educational benefits of implementing HADO extend into various aspects:
1. Inclusivity: HADO allows students with varying athletic abilities to partake in sports, thus enabling those who may have felt intimidated by traditional gym classes to succeed.
2. Collaborative Learning: It encourages collaborative learning, enhancing classroom dynamics and promoting positive relationships among peers.
3. Lowering Psychological Barriers: The game effectively lowers psychological hurdles, motivating children to attend school for enjoyment rather than obligation.
4. Versatile Applications: Beyond just physical education, HADO can be applied in teaching strategic thinking, spatial awareness, and teamwork, thus broadening its educational value.

Educator Insights

Shuuhei Nishimoto, a teacher at Kawanoe Elementary School, expresses strong support for HADO, noting that it provides an excellent platform for children who may otherwise shy away from sports. He emphasizes the importance of open dialogue in helping students feel more connected to their learning environment. For students previously reluctant to attend school, HADO serves as a starting point for more positive changes in attitudes toward education.

Shikokuchuo City’s pursuit of integrating HADO into its educational model reflects a progressive approach to learning, aiming to foster an environment where inquiry and self-directed learning thrive. The city plans to continue utilizing resources that inspire student curiosity and facilitate deeper learning experiences.

More about the Japan ICT Education Award

The Japan ICT Education Award recognizes municipalities that excel in utilizing GIGA School initiatives and education DX to revitalize communities and enhance educational experiences. Winning this award signifies significant contributions to educational excellence and community engagement.

About HADO

HADO is a pioneering concept merging physical sports with digital technology, creating a new category of sports known as techno-sports. By equipping players with headsets and sensors, HADO offers a unique competitive experience where participants use strategy and collaboration to achieve goals. Currently, HADO spans across 39 countries, empowering individuals regardless of their athletic background.

About Meleap Inc.

Meleap Inc. strives to create a society where everyone can enjoy physical activity and maintain a healthy lifestyle through engaging technologies like HADO. With a mission to provide exciting experiences, the company is dedicated to expanding the potential of sports and entertainment across the globe.