It’s been approximately six months since I transitioned to the Data Driven Innovation Division (DX Division), and I’m gradually acclimating to the diverse landscape. It’s an entirely different world from what I’ve been accustomed to, and I’m relishing the plethora of intriguing encounters I’ve had.

As a full-time faculty member of the DX Promotion Division, a suggestion arose from a board member that I establish a research unit to represent. Moreover, concurrently serving within the Learning Analytics Center, I recognized that my expertise extends beyond just LA; I possess the ability to design a broad spectrum of learning environments based on various interdisciplinary learning theories. Hence, in September, I initiated the “Smart Learning Design Research Unit.”

Our unit comprises professors with expertise not only in educational technology and intelligence informatics but also in web informatics, science education (STEM/STEAM education), sensitivity engineering, and philosophy of education, among other disciplines. Each member has their unique research focus, and our goal is to amalgamate their diverse expertise to create a research unit capable of designing, developing, and evaluating smart learning environments while also extending our gaze towards societal impact.

To lay the foundation for our unit’s launch, we recently hosted Dr. Richardson and Dr. Maeda from Purdue University to share their research insights and engage in fruitful discussions. Additionally, we have scheduled a symposium on November 14 to inaugurate the research unit. During this event, we will introduce our digital educational material delivery system “B-QUBE” and the learning dashboard “Metaboard.” These platforms, primarily developed by our team, will serve as integral components of our envisioned learning support system. We aim to collaborate with external research organizations to further refine these systems and conduct practical research.

If anyone is interested, we warmly welcome discussions and collaborations.

Thank you in advance for your continued support.