The "Model-Based STEAM Education Project" by Shizuoka City and Keio University Has Begun!

I, too, was invited by Professor Kaminari of SFC to join this initiative, so I attended the signing ceremony.

Shizuoka is known as the “Model City,” home to Japan’s leading model manufacturers, such as Tamiya, Hasegawa, and Aoshima.

The region accounts for more than 80 percent of the nation’s total shipments of plastic model kits, and the annual Shizuoka Hobby Show attracts model manufacturers and enthusiasts from both Japan and abroad. The World Capital of Model Kits!

The process of deciphering blueprints, understanding the structure, and assembling a model through trial and error is packed with elements of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. It is the very essence of STEAM education.

In this project, we will first utilize Tamiya’s “Mini 4WD” cars and, by combining sensor-based measurements, data analysis, and digital twins, develop educational materials based on the learning cycle of “build, run, measure, analyze, and improve.”In the future, we aim to develop a continuous educational program that starts with the early childhood experience of “the joy of making” and leads to advanced digital engineering, and ultimately to local industries and innovation.

Japanese models are the culmination of meticulous craftsmanship and creativity brimming with a sense of playfulness.

Bringing the world-renowned culture and industries of that region into the education of the next generation.

I think it would be wonderful if Shizuoka City, Keio University, model manufacturers, schools, research institutions, and others could join forces to create Japan’s first STEAM education model utilizing models, and then spread it from Shizuoka throughout Japan and to the rest of the world.

Nurturing future engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs from the City of Models.

An exciting new challenge is about to begin!