#Japan #Generative AI #Okayama #Okayama University #Kansai High School

Promoting English Skills Through Generative AI

On January 29, 2026, the Research and Innovation Partnership Organization of Okayama University hosted an interactive English speech class at Kansai High School, utilizing generative AI technology. This initiative is part of the EDGE-PRIME Initiative supported by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), and marks the third collaborative project following successful implementations at Kurashiki Seiryo High School and Okayama Gakugeikan High School.

In this unique session, students from the Data Science Club (DS Club) at Okayama University took on the role of instructors. They guided high school students in organizing their thoughts in English and presenting them as speeches, emphasizing practical, hands-on learning. Themes such as self-awareness, future orientation, problem discovery, and personal values served as foundational topics to deepen students' understanding and enhance their expressive capabilities.

Generative AI played an instrumental role, allowing students to efficiently organize ideas, providing a valuable resource for completing their speeches within a limited timeframe. Rather than being positioned merely as a tool for finding answers, generative AI was showcased as an aid to deepen thought processes and refine expression.

Participants expressed their thoughts on the experience, noting how the use of generative AI made English less intimidating and more enjoyable. A standout comment from a student reflected, “I always thought English was difficult, but using generative AI made it more manageable. I enjoyed expressing my ideas in English.” The engagement and proactive participation of the students were commendable.

Airi Asakura, a second-year student in the Global Discovery Program and instructor for the day, remarked, “Although the topics were challenging, being able to structure my thoughts and present them in English with the help of generative AI was a significant achievement. I hope everyone felt the expanded perspective on the world through practical use of the language.”

The EDGE-PRIME Initiative aims to provide practical learning environments inspired by advanced technologies such as generative AI in collaboration with local high schools. This initiative supports opportunities for university and high school students to learn from one another, promoting mutual growth.

As part of continued efforts to nurture unique educational practices and to position Okayama University as a central hub for research and innovation, the university remains dedicated to fostering advancements that contribute to regional development. With a focus on stimulating entrepreneurship through enhanced educational opportunities, the EDGE-PRIME Initiative strives to significantly increase the development of startups, targeting an ambitious goal of tenfold growth over five years. Creating a diverse talent pool for startups is identified as a crucial aspect of this strategic approach.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts exemplified by this event not only enhance student competencies in communication and technology but also enrich the educational landscape in Okayama and beyond, as institutions like Okayama University continue to innovate and serve as catalysts for growth in their communities.