On June 21, 2025, Okayama University, a national university based in Okayama City, took significant strides in advancing digital education by hosting a seminar on generative AI at Takahashi High School. This event was part of the school’s initiative to accelerate its DX High School program, aimed at equipping students with knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively.
A total of six students from the university's Data Science Department served as instructors, sharing their expertise with 153 high school students. The seminar began with an introduction to the fundamental principles of generative AI and included discussions on the ethical implications surrounding information use, emphasizing the importance of fact-checking and personal data protection.
Participants engaged in interactive workshops where they learned to customize AI tools, designed prompts, and explored practical applications relevant to their inquiry-based projects. This hands-on experience equipped them to create surveys and presentation slides, facilitating a deeper understanding of AI’s role in academic research and presentations.
Feedback from the students was encouraging, with many asking insightful questions regarding how generative AI sources information and how to verify the reliability of generated content. The successful interaction and active participation highlighted the students’ eagerness to integrate AI into their learning processes.
Post seminar, students had the opportunity to connect with the university's participants, fostering discussions about career paths and university life. This engagement created a vibrant dialogue that transcended beyond mere information exchange, touching on aspirations and the future of education.
Masahito Ando, Chief of Inquiry at Takahashi High School, reflected positively, noting the seminar’s relevance to the second-year students' focus in their inquiry seminar activities. Moreover, principal Nobuyuki Torigoe expressed a commitment to nurturing students who understand and tackle societal challenges through digital technology. He affirmed the school's continuous collaboration with Okayama University and other organizations to support student learning and development.
As a designated DX High School by Japan's Ministry of Education, Takahashi High School is committed to growing its partnerships with institutions like Okayama University to continuously uplift students' educational journeys. Okayama University's ongoing initiatives aim to meet the educational needs of teachers and students alike, facilitating a transformation in teaching practices and enhancing student growth opportunities.
This collaboration marks just one of many efforts by Okayama University, recognized as a leading research institution and a vital contributor to the region's educational landscape. Stay tuned for further developments and initiatives from Okayama University as it continues to shape the future of education through digital transformation.
The seminar is a key part of Okayama University's commitment to promoting inquiry-based learning and to actively participating in the educational growth of local high schools. With the ongoing support from the university, Takahashi High School is set to further enhance its digital framework and engage students in meaningful learning experiences.
The information is published by Okayama University on July 1, 2025, showcasing its dedication to innovation and collaboration in education.
[Photos of the seminar and student activities were provided by Takahashi High School.]