Learning of Tomorrow

2018.01.29
Launching the “Meta School Association” (tentative name)

 We are launching the “Meta School Association” (tentative name).
While digital education and programming education are becoming mandatory even in elementary schools, the shortage of IT and AI professionals is becoming increasingly severe.
This organization aims to build a private-sector collaborative framework for education and technology, encompassing everyone from preschoolers to working adults, including continuing education.

 We will advance research, pilot projects, awareness campaigns, and policy proposals regarding IT and technology in education—including measures for IT talent development and the integration of AI, big data, and blockchain into education.
We are designing the next generation of education.
Although this initiative originated from discussions with several industry groups, I am both surprised and delighted that so many economic organizations and industry groups in the IT, software, and content sectors have expressed their intention to participate.

*Organizations Planning to Participate*
New Economy Federation, Computer Software Association of Japan, Japan Business Federation (Keidanren), Japan IT Federation, National Federation of Software Cooperatives, Council for the Promotion of Safe Internet, Multimedia Promotion Center, National Association of Mobile Phone Retailers, Computer Entertainment Association, Japan Music Industry Association, Telecommunications Carriers Association, Telecom Services Association, Digital Textbook and Teaching Materials Council, and others(Listed in no particular order)
*Organizations Currently in Discussions Regarding Participation*
Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Japan Productivity Center, Information Service Industry Association, Japan Society for the Promotion of Information and Communications, Digital Content Association of Japan, Information and Communications Network Industry Association, Digital Media Association, Telecommunications Promotion Foundation, National Association of Vocational Schools for Information Education, Japan Animation Association, Japan Online Game Association, Japan Music Producers Federation, and others (in no particular order)

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry are also scheduled to participate as observers, and consultations are underway with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
The kickoff is scheduled for February. We will provide further details at a later date.

Education has evolved alongside technological advancements.
The invention of movable-type printing gave rise to textbooks and established the “lecture-style” teaching method.
In the 20th century, new media such as film, radio, and television were utilized in education.
In the 21st century, what kind of learning environments will IT and AI create?
This initiative aims to envision that future.