At university, various advanced technologies are being researched, but looking at society, there are many problems such as environmental issues, aging, poverty, and inequality. As researchers and developers of technology, how can we contribute to solving these social problems? In this class, we will form groups and learn to apply technology to tackle social issues, developing a perspective on how to contribute to solving them using cutting-edge technology.
- Through project-based learning, students can develop the ability to identify and define problems. Students can also gain a deeper understanding of how technology can be utilized to solve social issues.
- By engaging in dialogue with practitioners of social issue solving, students can develop a personal interest in social issues and expand their perspective on the value and applicability of technology.
✔ Applicable | How instructors' work experience benefits the course |
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-One of the lecturers has consulting experience in service design. She will deliver lectures on the topic of service design, and the group project process for this course is designed based on her expertise. -One of the lecturers is a practitioner of innovation management. He will provide guidance on approaches to addressing social issues. |
Solving social issues, Entrepreneurship, Service design, Exploring technology, Expert interviews.
Specialist skills | Intercultural skills | ✔ Communication skills | ✔ Critical thinking skills | ✔ Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
This course aims to explore solutions that utilize existing and emerging technologies, such as information and communication technology, to address social issues. Through listening to and engaging in dialogue with practitioners who are tackling these issues in the field, students will work collaboratively as a team to identify the key challenges and devise potential solutions.
To develop effective solutions, students will explore a diverse range of technologies both within and beyond their own research lab. Ultimately, teams will have the opportunity to present their findings/proposals to the practitioners.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
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Class 1 | ・Lecture on the latest trends and basic concepts in service development ・Based on videos of practitioners working on solving social issues, decide on a challenge that your own team wants to tackle. | Pre-assignment: Watching video materials. |
Class 2 | Refer to technology cards to discuss a wide range of technologies necessary for solving social issues. Additionally, search for researchers within the university who are researching the relevant technology. | Exploring technologies |
Class 3 | Utilize the gathered technologies to develop potential solutions and create a storyboard. | Visualize technology in a way that is understandable to the user. |
Class 4 | Propose the solution to the practitioners and receive feedback | Obtain effective feedback from users. |
Class 5 | Refine the solution based on the feedback received, and create a prototype. | Create prototype. |
Class 6 | Update the proposed solution, and prepare for the presentation. | |
Class 7 | Presentation and feedback. |
To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.
None required
Lecture materials will be distributed in class.
Contribution to group discussions, presentations, and a report.
No prerequisites.