Okayama University Enhances Student Research Activities with AI and 3D Printing Workshops

Expanding Research Horizons: AI and 3D Printing at Kasaoka High School

On June 2, 2026, Okayama University, under the leadership of President Yoshitomo Nasushi, conducted impactful workshops at Kasaoka High School in Okayama Prefecture. This event was part of the school's initiative called "Comprehensive Inquiry Time ACT," targeting around 145 second-year students. The workshops aimed to improve students' research activities through hands-on themes related to artificial intelligence and 3D printing, building on a program initiated in 2023 that encourages student-led exploration and participation.

The day started with anticipation as students prepared to engage in the exercises, demonstrating resilience despite approaching stormy weather. This year, Okayama University evolved last year's program by further enhancing the support structures within its DX High School initiative.

Teams of university students, including leaders like Midori Maeda from the Data Science student organization and Yuya Shimizu from the startup MOSAdemy, led the workshops. The involvement of passionate student mentors from Kasaoka High School added a supportive layer, bridging experiences between the high school and university environments. These collaborations fostered a nurturing educational atmosphere as mentors shared insights from their academic journeys while guiding students through complex school navigation.

Focusing on practical skills, the workshops prominently featured a new "Generative AI Course." In this session, students learned about the mechanics of hallucinations in AI from a probabilistic modeling perspective. By analyzing sales data from a local café, they engaged in practical lessons using "NotebookLM" to conduct fact-based analytics. This experience allowed students to harness their personal devices to explore real-world data analysis, reinforcing their understanding of AI's applicability.

The 3D printing segment utilized intuitive CAD software, "Tinker CAD," enabling students to translate their conceptual ideas into rapid prototypes. Participants actively manipulated 3D printers, gaining firsthand experience of how engineering processes work in the context of problem-solving through creativity and design.

Teachers at Kasaoka High School praised the program's overwhelming success, noting how students enjoyed using AI and were fascinated by the 3D printing process. The presence of skilled student support from Okayama University was instrumental in enhancing the quality of the inquiry activities, with one teacher remarking on the positive impact on students' engagement and learning outcomes.

Looking forward, Okayama University is committed to continuing its support for high schools in the region, promoting self-directed learning and innovation through collaboration. The university aims to empower students with the latest technologies and methodologies, further solidifying its role as a regional educational leader and resource for upcoming generations.

The feedback from students and teachers alike reflects the program's impact, with enthusiastic participation indicating a successful melding of educational rigor with innovative methodologies. Okayama University's ongoing dedication to programs like the DX High School initiative ensures that students are well-prepared for a future that increasingly integrates technology and collaborative research experiences.