Furusato Creative Studies began in 2014 with the hope of turning the experiences children gained during the disaster into the power to live. It is an inquiry-based learning program carried out by the eight towns and villages of Futaba District. Each school sets its own theme and activities according to the characteristics and goals of the municipality and school, as well as the needs and interests of its students.

At Yumenomori, the younger grades have conducted inquiry under the theme “What We Like”, while the older grades have explored under the theme “Well-Being for Myself and Society.”

Fifth and sixth grade students presented the results of their ten-month inquiries—beginning in January—through both exhibits and presentations, covering topics such as agriculture, model airplanes, resin craft, and sewing.

In the older grades, students started with their own “likes” and interests as themes for their inquiries—such as trains, community planning, woodworking, and accessories—and they deepened their learning through the interaction so that they could share ideas that truly “spark excitement.”

Students chose the presentations they were interested in and joined the corresponding sessions to engage in discussion and interaction. In December, the “Future Design” program will include reflection and final summary activities, incorporating their experiences from presenting at the Furusato Creative Learning Summit.

Impressions

  • “I learned about ideas such as “How can we share our town’s culture with others?” It was fun to communicate with students from other schools and talk about things we like. Since it was my first time participating, I was nervous at first, but talking with students from other schools led to new connections and I’m glad I took part.”
  • “I saw a presentation from Kawauchi Village about activities that use their beautiful night sky to promote the town. I thought that we might also be able to let more people know about Okuma Town by holding cultural events that make use of our town’s strengths.”
  • “I watched a presentation from a school that made benches. They said the legs were a little difficult and didn’t go perfectly, but from the photos they looked stable, so I was impressed.”
  • “After listening to the presentation from Katsurao Village, I could see how much the local people truly cherish their hometown.”
  • “I enjoyed interacting with many students from other schools. I learned that each of them is exploring how to create excitement and promote the town or village where they live.
  • “I thought the people who served as moderators and facilitators during the sessions had great communication skills and speaking ability.”