Japanese high schools implement inquiry-based learning with local industries

High school students in Japan are participating in specialized inquiry-based learning programs designed to solve real-world challenges through collaboration with local businesses and municipalities.

At Clark Memorial International High School’s Hiroshima campus, students engaged in fieldwork in Kitahiroshima Town. Partnering with Taiikusha Co., Ltd., the students are tasked with creating projects to revitalize the town through sports, health, and exercise. The fieldwork included visiting local government offices, inspecting cross-country courses, and observing community health activities to understand how sports can foster regional engagement.

In Ehime Prefecture, Yahatahama High School is hosting the ‘Mikyan Inquiry’ project. First-year students are working with six local companies to address specific corporate issues. Topics include designing ideal housing layouts and developing promotional activities linked to regional events. These students will spend approximately six months researching their assigned themes, with final presentations scheduled for March.