[Community Collaboration] Nishinomiya City Taisha Junior High School implements "Try-It Week"

From May 25th to 29th, Otemae University hosted a "Try-It Week" program for five second-year students from Sasahara Junior High School in Itami City.

This program went beyond mere work experience, aiming to provide students with a unique learning experience that leveraged the distinctive characteristics of a university as an educational and research institution. Through diverse programs and authentic on-campus tasks, students gained a deep understanding of university learning, research, and engagement with the local community.

≪Main programs implemented≫
The multi-day program offered a wealth of learning opportunities, from specialized hands-on lessons led by faculty members to visits to research institutions, workshops on university operations led by staff, and practical experience in the library.

[Exploring the forefront of historical research (History Research Institute)]
At our university's History Research Institute, students had the opportunity to observe research and investigations using specialized equipment. It was a valuable chance to experience firsthand the "forefront of historical research," where history is unraveled through a scientific approach. Furthermore, they were given the chance to carefully experience important administrative tasks such as labeling envelopes.

[Experience the world of book professionals (library)]
At Otemae University and Otemae College Library, we experienced the work of librarians and library staff. We registered newly arrived books, classified them according to the library's unique rules, and arranged them on the shelves so that users could easily pick them up. We learned about the responsible process involved in getting a book to a user.

[Exploring Creative Expression (Faculty of Architecture & Arts)]
Through specialized creative activities such as making button badges under the guidance of Assistant Professor and three-dimensional modeling exercises led by Lecturer Maeda, we gained an appreciation for the profound depths of "making things."

[Considering the structure and future of universities (Regional and Social Cooperation Office)]
The program led by staff members deepened our understanding of the overall management structure and roles of the university. We also experienced brainstorming through group work, enjoying the fun of freely exchanging ideas.

<Future prospects, etc.>
We hope that the Try-It Week program will help students think about their own careers, future paths, and the fascinating aspects of learning in their immediate surroundings. Otemae University will continue to deepen its collaboration with the local community and actively develop activities to support the learning of junior high school students who will shape the future.

(Source: Regional and Social Cooperation Office)