Expectations for Science Class Support Activities (in 2011)

As part of the planning process, we regularly consult with schoolteachers and NPOs about various aspects of our science class support activities.
For example, in February 2011 we invited 136 students from the nearby Hiroshima Minamikanon Elementary School to our Industrial Machinery Business, Technology & Solutions Division (the current Hiroshima Machinery Works) to teach them about manufacturing - in particular the power of air - using a compressor, one of this division's main products, as the teaching aid.Following the class, we hosted an idea exchange attended by Mr. Takuya Suga, a teacher and vice principal at the school, and people from the Kodomo Uchu Mirai Association (KU-MA), an incorporated nonprofit organization that specializes in science classes. Mr. Suga pointed out one of the difficulties of conducting science classes. "Many children inherently enjoy undertaking science experiments," he commented, "but if we don't convey to them clearly the reasons for conducting the experiments, they gradually lose interest." Concerning MHI's activities, he had this to offer: "There's great value in having people who are personally involved in manufacturing come to the schools and make the children aware that what they are studying in school plays a useful role in the world. The children can also learn how products are completed only through the cooperation of many people, including designers, engineers, and so on. This helps them learn about careers.
Mr. Sumio Endo, Director of KU-MA, also offered up some valuable opinions. On the basic thinking to apply in creating the program, he suggested that when you begin by asking why a particular phenomenon occurs, it sparks a child's interest. He also stated that since many of MHI's products are large or heavy or feature outstanding performance, learning about them leads to formative experiences that respond to children's basic questioning about things. Mr. Endo also expressed his hope that MHI would demonstrate to children how leading-edge technology is closely connected with their lives.
Responding to this advice and these opinions, the representatives from the Industrial Machinery Business, Technology & Solutions Division commented that helping children learn requires a long-term commitment. They added that the views expressed by the teachers and representatives from KU-MA would be applied toward enhancing the program's content and making the program's activities firmly established within the community. In this way, all the participants agreed that going forward they would continue to work together in educating local children, each respectively applying its special aspects as a school, NPO and business enterprise.

Exchange of ideas at the Industrial Machinery Business, Technology & Solutions Division