From AI-enhanced lectures to VR field trips: Peek into the future of learning with Professor Hawkinson and his student, Honoka Satake, at Kyoto University. In an enlightening conversation at Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, Professor Eric Hawkinson and second-year Global Tourism student Honoka Satake delve into the evolving realm of educational technology. Hawkinson, an expert in Learning Design & Technology from the United States, and Satake, an enthusiastic student with a keen interest in global tourism, explore the dynamic intersection of technology and education. Their discussion illuminates the transformative power of ICT, AI, VR, and AR in shaping modern learning experiences, offering insights into how these tools not only enhance academic understanding but also foster a deeper, more engaging educational journey.
Professor Eric Hawkinson, with his extensive portfolio in the field of Learning Design & Technology, stands at the forefront of educational innovation. As a learning futurist, he is deeply involved in designing and tinkering with technologies that shape the future of teaching and learning. His endeavors range from augmented tourism rallies to mixed reality escape rooms, underlining his commitment to immersive technology in education. Hawkinson’s roles span various capacities, including professorship, research coordination, and leadership in community and technological initiatives. His core passion lies in understanding and harnessing technologies to enrich human experiences in teaching, learning, working, and growing. Central to his philosophy are principles of open knowledge, privacy by design, and digital literacy for all, ensuring a balanced approach to technology integration in education. His work emphasizes the future of teaching and learning, focusing on immersive learning design, augmented and virtual learning development, and the ethical dimensions of digital citizenship. Through research, development, and public outreach, Hawkinson actively shapes the conversation on immersive technology integration in education, preparing for the emerging challenges and opportunities in edtech.
Full listing Eric’s projects and research: https://erichawkinson.com
Innovative Classroom Experiences
At Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, Professor Eric Hawkinson is transforming the educational experience through the use of advanced multimedia resources. One of the most striking examples is the multimedia study room equipped with a curved screen, enabling students to embark on virtual travel experiences. This immersive technology allows students to explore various global locations virtually, as if they were physically present. It’s not just about seeing these places; it’s an interactive and engaging learning process where students can deeply connect with different cultures and environments. These tools are a game-changer in education, providing students with an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the world in a way that traditional classroom settings simply cannot offer.
In addition to the immersive virtual travel experiences, Professor Eric Hawkinson’s innovative use of technology in the classroom extends to facilitating Model United Nations (MUN) simulations through WebVR. A notable project documented in a study published by IEEE involved creating a digital twin of the UN Security Council Chamber in New York. This virtual environment allowed a small group of students to participate in MUN simulations, fully immersed in a VR setting. The project aimed to explore the potential of WebVR as an online collaborative tool, transforming the traditional MUN experience into a more engaging and interactive learning process. This venture underscores Hawkinson’s commitment to using technology not only to enhance the educational experience but also to prepare students for complex global interactions and diplomacy in a digitally connected world.
This study is being expanded upon now in the new laboratory.
My Hometown Project
“My Hometown Project” represents an innovative approach to tourism in the post-COVID-19 era, focusing on virtual travel and immersive storytelling. This initiative allows individuals to explore and experience unique personal stories from different hometowns around the world, offering a new dimension to travel. By utilizing advanced technologies such as augmented and virtual reality, the project offers an alternative to traditional travel methods, potentially enriching the experience in ways previously unattainable. This approach not only adapts to the changing travel landscape brought about by the pandemic but also introduces a novel way for people to connect and understand diverse cultures and places from the comfort of their own homes.
The project places a strong emphasis on sustainability and cultural exchange, addressing the pressing need for climate-friendly travel options in the wake of the pandemic’s impact on the tourism industry. It aims to create a positive and sustainable future for tourism, helping the industry to evolve in a more resilient and sustainable manner. Students, in particular, have shown great enthusiasm for the project, appreciating both its sustainable approach and the unique opportunities it provides for cultural understanding and exploration. The project is not just limited to students; it’s beneficial for all who are interested in exploring lesser-known paths and experiencing the richness of global cultures and stories in a more accessible and environmentally conscious way.
Student Perspective
Honoka Satake, a dedicated and enthusiastic second-year Global Tourism student at Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, deeply values the unique and innovative teaching approach of Professor Eric Hawkinson. Her journey from Toyama Prefecture to Kyoto, influenced by her high school teacher’s recommendation, reflects her commitment to pursuing a global education. Satake’s diverse interests, ranging from movie watching and photography to her fascination with the game “Touken Ranbu,” mirror the diverse and engaging curriculum offered by Professor Hawkinson.
Embracing the modern educational landscape, she appreciates the blend of traditional and digital learning methods, such as the interactive ‘Together Learning’ program. Satake has shown a keen interest in all of Professor Hawkinson’s elective courses, including New Media Marketing, Web Design, and Video Production. Her anticipation for participating in the My Hometown Project in the upcoming ‘Immersive Technology Workshop’ is palpable. This project, which seeks to connect people globally through virtual travel experiences, aligns perfectly with Satake’s passion for cultural exploration and sustainable tourism. Her experience at Kyoto University is a testament to the transformative power of technology in education, bridging gaps and opening new horizons for students like her. Satake’s journey at the university is not just about academic achievement; it’s a journey of personal growth, cultural understanding, and preparing for a dynamic future in the global tourism industry.
Real-World Application of Classroom Learning
The real-world application of Professor Hawkinson’s educational methods extends beyond the classroom into various innovative projects. These include the WebVR Model United Nations simulations, where students engage in virtual diplomacy, and the My Hometown Project, emphasizing immersive storytelling for sustainable tourism. Additionally, Hawkinson has developed various other projects like Together Learning, Reality Labo for augmented reality learning environments, and Team Teachers for supporting educators with technology. His portfolio also includes unique initiatives like AR experiences at TEDxKyoto, a gamified AR library scavenger hunt, and educational games that blend learning with interactive experiences. These diverse projects collectively demonstrate how classroom learning under Hawkinson’s guidance directly prepares students for real-world challenges and opportunities in a digital era.
Moving Forward
As Kyoto University of Foreign Studies continues to evolve under Professor Eric Hawkinson’s guidance, the future looks bright and innovative. The introduction of new coursework, including subjects like eSports, Immersive Experience Design, and Digital Citizenship, marks a significant step towards modernizing the curriculum. These courses reflect the growing importance of digital proficiency in the global tourism sector and beyond, ensuring students are well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. Hawkinson’s forward-thinking approach promises to keep KUFS at the forefront of educational innovation.
Author: Eric Hawkinson
more at erichawkinson.com