Transforming High School Education with XR
Canon Marketing Japan (President: Masachika Adachi) and JTB Corp. (President: Eijiro Yamakita) have collaboratively developed an innovative educational program aimed at high schools across Japan. Scheduled to launch on April 16, 2026, the program is entitled ‘Experience-Based DX Exploration Lab Utilizing XR’ and is designed in alignment with the Ministry of Education's ‘DX High School’ initiative, which promotes digital transformation in education.
Background of Program Development
In response to a national strategy focused on digital advancement, there has been an urgent need for developing digital talent in Japan. Starting in the fiscal year 2024, over 1,000 high schools nationwide will be designated as ‘DX High Schools,’ aiming to reinforce practical and exploratory digital education from the high school level. Educational institutions require programs that leverage external expertise and collaborative learning with universities and companies. Acknowledging this context, Canon and JTB integrated their technological expertise and educational program management acumen to create a quality exploratory learning experience at minimal burden to schools.
Objectives of the Program
This educational initiative seeks to provide high-quality exploratory learning while addressing challenges faced by educational institutions. Specifically, it aims to solve issues by fusing Canon's cutting-edge XR technology and practical learning content with JTB’s extensive experience in educational program planning and management. Ultimately, it also aspires to contribute to the cultivation of much-needed digital talent in the society.
What is the ‘Experience-Based DX Exploration Lab Utilizing XR’?
The program employs XR technology, encompassing Mixed Reality (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR), to develop experiential content and workshops. This hands-on program will teach students how digital technologies are applied in real-world business and societal contexts. By incorporating practical case studies and experiences derived from XR industries, students will gain a more profound and applicable understanding of their studies. Additionally, visits to universities and businesses, along with various exploratory activities, will provide students with opportunities to contemplate their futures while nurturing their independent thinking and expressive abilities.
Roles of the Companies
- - Canon MJ: Provides educational programs and learning materials based on MR technology through its ‘MREAL’ system, while also overseeing the program's operation and implementation.
- - JTB: Utilizes its operational expertise in educational programs and its national network to sell and support program delivery and execution.
Future Developments
The program will be rolled out to high schools and local governments nationwide. Emphasis will be placed on schools selected as DX High Schools, along with municipalities and institutions focused on fostering digitally skilled problem solvers. Through practical learning experiences, this initiative aims to significantly contribute to the development of the next generation of digital talent in Japan.
About ‘MREAL’
The MR system ‘MREAL’ developed by Canon merges real-world imagery and CG to offer immersive experiences from various perspectives. By converging optical and imaging technologies, MREAL provides solutions across various fields. More information can be found
here.
About Canon Marketing Japan Group
Canon Marketing Japan group engages in marketing activities mainly within Japan, underlining the societal challenges addressed through a combination of Canon's product and IT solution businesses. With the overarching purpose of pioneering a sustainable future together with diverse stakeholders, Canon positions itself as the ‘Future Marketing Company.’ More details can be found on their
official site.
About JTB
Operating under the core business domain of ‘Exchange Creation,’ JTB connects various elements of community and commerce to help solve the challenges faced by regions and tourism stakeholders, driving innovation through digital and human capabilities. For more information, visit
JTB’s official website.
For inquiries from the general public: