Learning of Tomorrow [Announcement] 24th Learning of Tomorrow Online Symposium: “Avatar Classes at BBT University—A Discussion Between ‘In-Person’ and ‘Virtual’ Students” We are pleased to announce that Professor Shugo Yanaka of Business Breakthrough University (BBT University)—where students residing in 110 countries around the world study business—will be our guest speaker at the 24th Learning of Tomorrow Online Symposium. He will deliver a talk titled “BBT University’s Avatar Classes: Discussions Between ‘Physical’ and ‘Avatar’ Students.”In March of this year, Professor Yananaka held the world’s first “avatar graduation ceremony,” which was covered by 300 media outlets across five continents, showcasing the potential of avatars to the global education industry.Subsequently, in August, he released a video of an “avatar class” in which “in-person students” participating physically and “avatar students” participating virtually engaged in discussions during group work exercises.As the design of hybrid classes combining online and in-person elements becomes increasingly essential, the use of avatars is expected to play a significant role. Professor Tanaka will discuss how avatars can be utilized in education, as well as their benefits and challenges.
https://lot.or.jp/wp/report/2483/
Professor, Keio University; Ph.D. (Policy and Media)
Director, B Lab
Chairperson, Learning of Tomorrow (General Incorporated Association)
Chairperson, CANVAS
After graduating from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Tokyo, he served as a visiting researcher at the MIT Media Lab before founding the NPO CANVAS and the Learning of Tomorrow Association, a General Incorporated Association, and assuming the role of representative. He serves as an outside director for Matsuya Co., Ltd., Fuji Media Holdings, Inc., and Digital Garage, Inc.
He has served on various government committees, including the Information and Communications Council of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, as well as the NHK Central Broadcasting Program Council. He also serves as a director of the Digital Signage Consortium, among other roles. He holds a Ph.D. in Policy and Media.
His publications include *Turning On Children’s Creativity!*, *What Are Smart Kids Doing on Their Smartphones?*, *The Forefront of Online Education in Japan: Considering Learning in the Post-COVID Era*,“What Is Programming Education? 45 Questions Parents Want to Know,” and “Declaration on Digital Education.” He has also provided supervision for numerous works, including “Ah, I See! Programming Education for Parents and Children Through Manga.”
