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Hachioji CampusEngaging Research Symposium Explores Community Learning and Civic Engagement in Hino City

On Tuesday, March 7, 2023, the Faculty of Education’s Department of Education and Culture at Teikyo University held a research symposium at the Hino City Hall (Hino, Tokyo), led by Associate Professor Miwa Namishima. Specializing in lifelong learning and social education, the Namishima Seminar has conducted investigative research throughout the year, with seminar participants engaging in activities at the Hino City Chuo Civic Center. Through this endeavor, they have contributed to the revitalization of civic center activities.

The seminar participants, while involving themselves in Hino City's community issues and the lives and learning of its citizens, have gained a profound understanding of civic center activities, lifelong learning support, and community development. They have pursued their studies and research with dedication. During this research symposium, two students presented their findings for the academic year 2022, which focused on Hino City and provided insights for the city's future:

• Ryota Takiguchi (4th year, Faculty of Education)
  "The Role of Neighborhood Associations in Community Building – Emphasis on Support and Membership Promotion within Neighborhood Associations"
• Sona Kimura (4th year, Faculty of Education)
  "Learning of Community Residents Derived from Culture Club Activities Transitioned into the Community"

Furthermore, in the second segment, the seminar showcased its investigative reports on the civic center projects carried out by Hino City Chuo Civic Center (programs for disabled youth and adults, childcare initiatives, senior citizen ICT programs, and Japanese language classes for foreigners) through a poster session. The event was attended by various individuals, including Takuro Horigawa, the Superintendent of the Hino City Board of Education, as well as representatives from relevant departments within the city hall and board of education, and members from the Hino Social Education Center. The poster session, in particular, fostered a friendly and constructive dialogue between the students and the Superintendent and staff members, encompassing not only the results of the investigations but also insights gained and observations of citizens involved in the process. The posters will soon be displayed in various locations throughout the city, including civic centers. Additionally, the research findings will be compiled into a report titled "Hino: Forum for Learning – Open, Expand, Connect." This research symposium stands as a testament to Teikyo University's commitment to community engagement and fostering a deeper understanding of lifelong learning and civic participation among its students. The seminar's contributions to Hino City's civic activities continue to be a source of inspiration and progress for all involved.

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