A Trial Lecture of "Collaborative Learning on Regional Issues" Held ahead of Official Launch
July 22, 2026
Nagaoka University of Technology officially launched Multicultural Collaborative Learning Classes this April. In this academic year, we are offering a total of 18 classes (10 undergraduate, 3 master's, and 5 doctoral courses) under this initiative. To further expand the program, we plan to introduce several new classes next academic year.
As a trial lecture for one of the planning new classes, Collaborative Learning on Regional Issues, was held on Saturday, July 11th.
This class invited local government officials to serve as guest lecturers and provided students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds with opportunities to engage in group discussions. Through these discussions, students deepened their understanding of regional issues while developing the knowledge and practical skills needed to contribute to solving real-world community challenges.
For this trial lecture, Mr. Yasushi Takatou, Director of the Central City Maintenance Room of Nagaoka City, delivered a lecture on initiatives to revitalize the area around Nagaoka Station and the city's urban development plans.
Following the lecture, students worked in groups to discuss the theme: "What kind of city center would make you want to live in or return to Nagaoka?" Each group developed proposals from its own perspective and presented its ideas to the class.
The presentations covered a wide range of creative proposals, including revitalizing the former city hall site, promoting Nagaoka in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and introducing new mobility options to complement public transportation. Students thoughtfully connected the future of Nagaoka with their own aspirations, resulting in engaging and well-considered presentations.
The question-and-answer session was equally lively. Director Takatou, and Mr. Nunokawa, Assistant Director for Central City Development Policy, offered insightful questions and constructive feedback. Students developed valuable insights into regional issues from multiple perspectives, through the opportunity to exchange ideas directly with current Nagaoka City officials.
Based on the outcomes and feedback from this trial lecture, we will refine the course in preparation for its official launch next academic year.
