University Innovation Fellows - User contributions [en]

Priorities:Sophia University Student Priorities

2022-10-14T14:01:02Z

Sanasofiahorikawa:

<br />
=2022 Strategic Priorities=

==='''Strategy #1 Japanese Innovation & Entrepreneurship Course'''===

===='''Background:'''====
It could be said that Sophia University overall lacks classes or activities with entrepreneurship-related themes, especially those offered in Japanese. Through interviews, it became clear that Japanese students are not aware of the importance and value of I&E. It also seems like the goal of a typical Japanese university student is to go through the job hunting process and graduate, for which taking classes of interest is not a high priority nor a motivation. However, as the definition and aims of I&E are explained, Japanese students seemed to be open to learning more about these skills as they saw how this could be applied in daily life inside and outside the university. The lack of opportunities in Japanese medium has unfortunately limited their opportunities to be more involved with I&E courses/events. Thus, by making a Japanese I&E course and increasing accessibility of this, it is hoped to encourage and boost awareness and experience of I&E on campus, particularly among Japanese students.

===='''Structure:'''====
Collaboration with professors will be key for this project. Because there are more English-based I&E courses taught by foreign professors on campus, it is ideal to invite Japanese professors to teach similar content but in Japanese. However, as the concept of I&E may not be so established in Japan, looking for foreign professors who currently teach I&E courses in English who can speak Japanese may also bring new insight and contexts. This will require administrative work and will be a long-term project, yet planning with collaborators seems promising to increase the opportunities to engage with I&E.

===='''Steps:'''====

# Conduct a survey and collect opinions regarding I&E from students and faculty members from the Japanese-speaking departments
# Identify the need for implementing I&E courses (according to survey results)
# Recruit professors that are willing to support the implementation of this project and present them the set purpose and goals
# Address the idea to professors to receive feedback and comments
# Discuss with Japanese-track professors / foreign I&E professors about possible I&E courses that could be implemented in the Japanese language
# Create a sample syllabus with professors
# Test the idea by creating mock I&E courses course on campus (university-wide)
# Get Japanese students' feedback on the mock course
# Adjust the syllabus according to students' feedback; discuss with professors for possible improvements
# Test the idea again (revised mock I&E courses)
# Get Japanese students' feedback on the revised mock course
# Final adjustments/discussion with professors & board members
# Put forward the class syllabus and plan to the administration in charge
# Official implementation of the New Course

==='''Strategy #2: Sophia International Society (SIS)'''===

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia University offers three English-taught programs–The Faculty of Liberal Arts (FLA), the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), and the Sophia Program for Sustainable Futures (SPSF)–creating a vibrant and diverse environment for students to engage in academic and social events. However, as research through interviews with English program students was conducted, many students expressed a lack of fulfillment in their university life, as interactions between students as well as faculty members from the English-taught programs are limited and lacking. Moreover, the impact of the COVID pandemic further exacerbated the experience of loneliness and social isolation among students, making many lack a sense of belonging to Sophia University. Therefore, the establishment of the “Sophia International Society” is aimed to foster effective communication, improve integration between English-taught program students, and amplify diverse voices from students and faculty members in order to create a friendly and safe space for English-speaking students.

===='''Structure:'''====
Students in the English-taught programs will be the center of the Sophia International Society and will organize SIS with the help of student leaders elected from each department and year. Within SIS, student leaders will work in different committees, such as the public relations and events committees, along with other student members. They will carry out projects for both students and professors could lead, join, and take part in. In this way, students will feel more connected with their peers and professors as they work on various projects that can bring positive changes to SIS and our campus. Social and interactive events such as grouped lunch sessions, outings to explore Tokyo, and career seminars may also be held by SIS and will be open to all students and faculty members from the university. It is important to note that the Sophia International Society does not intend to exclude non-English program students from participating in SIS events and activities, but rather simply emphasize on the use of the English language. SIS is also envisioned to be the bridge between English-taught and Japanese-taught programs so that further integration can be made on campus in the future.

===='''Steps:'''====

# Talk to Prof. Maruyama and other faculty members about the possibility of creating the Sophia International Society
# Gather group opinions/thoughts on ideas (e.g. SPSF, FLA, FST)
# Send recruitment survey to find students from each department
# Organize a meeting to discuss the possibility and brainstorm ideas for this committee
# Create mission, structure/framework and functions of the organization
# Create group hangouts/calls with departments to discuss
# Send out survey for to gains student voices on the solutions
# Prototype one of the solutions
# Enact one of the functions outlined by the group (e.g. group meeting with all of SPSF, guest lecture, website, information gathering)
## Assess prototype solution completion - was it successful/unsuccessful?
## Consider further improvements, functions and/or re-structuring
# Create review framework on the topic
# Recruit members to sustain the SIS
# Official implementation of the SIS

==='''Strategy #3: Sustainable Bento: Making good use of food surplus'''===

===='''Background:'''====
From cafeterias, food trucks, and to cafés, there are many food options available to students and faculty members at Sophia University. However, throughout the campus research conducted by the team, it was clear a great amount of edible food that was thrown away in cafeterias. As food loss and food waste become increasingly severe issues at a global scale, edible food going to waste in cafeterias indeed does not seem ideal. Therefore, with this initial goal of solving food surplus in mind, a survey pertaining to this issue was created and 99 responses from students across different departments were received. According to the survey results, many students are aware of the issue of food surplus and are also keen to solve it for the betterment of the campus. Surprisingly, there is a high demand for food options available after 15:00 on campus, as there are few to none. With this situation, a brainstorming idea was that of selling “Sustainable Bentos”, which can not only solve the problem of food waste but can also offer food options for students as well as faculty members after lunchtime, therefore helping Sophians to stay energized throughout the day at university.

===='''Structure:'''====
The sustainable bentos are envisioned to include edible food that was not sold during the cafeterias’ opening hours and to be sold at a later time at a cheaper price. Although not concretized, part of the profit could go to the student staff selling them and the rest to the cafeterias. It is envisioned to collaborate with the University’s Asset Management office to understand the backgrounds behind each of the 4 cafeterias and 2 cafes on campus and to work together with the office to facilitate this project in each of these places.

===='''Steps:'''====

# Research on food management ecosystem and stakeholders on campus
# Interview students (for demand) and main stakeholders (regarding supply side)
# Identify the key pain point
# Think of solutions to tackle the key issue
# Conduct survey with students and faculty for feedback on the ideas
# Conduct a stakeholder meeting to propose the project idea
# Collaborate with stakeholders throughout the project-making process
# Prototype the final chosen solution
# Survey students and faculty for feedback on idea to make improvements
# Refine the prototype with feedback from stakeholders and users
# Recruit members to sustain the project
# Official Implementation of the project

==='''Strategy #4: Create an I&E startup collaboration hub'''===

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia University does not seem to have many opportunities for students to interact with those working, especially in the I&E area. Many Japanese students are not familiar with this concept and do not know its use of it either. Additionally, unfortunately, in Japanese society, university students in their 3rd and 4th year in the job hunting process often merely look into big companies. They are not so interested nor aware of the venture or startup businesses. For this, having the opportunity to interact with people involved in such initiatives may open new doors and options for their job hunting process as well as allow them to generally gain new experiences. By closing the distance between ventures/startups and students, and simultaneously making use of open spaces on campus for such activities, it is hoped that I&E becomes more present even merely as a concept on campus.

===='''Structure:'''====
What is envisioned for this collaboration hub is ventures and startups utilizing the empty classrooms available on campus, especially on weekends and long holidays for a lower than the market price or for free, in exchange for opportunities for Sophia students to participate in these activities and meetings. Through this, the incoming of diverse startups and ventures will help to promote innovation and entrepreneurship on campus as it enables new opportunities to enter Sophia university’s door, for which students and faculty can benefit intellectually and socially in regards to the expansion of connection and self-exploration for their job-hunting or graduate school journey.

===='''Steps:'''====

# Research and connect with stakeholders that have connections to space management
# Ask Sophia about their usage of space and campus, especially Bld.15
# Look for open spaces that could be effectively utilized, especially during the weekends
# Plan further stakeholder meetings
# Think about how we can ensure safety (membership card could be an option) and how students will be able to engage with them
# Make a plan of action
# Recruit people that will be willing to use the space (find a website to post this and promote it with the consent of the university)
# Collaborate with start-ups related to I&E and negotiate with them to offer service to Sophia students in return
# Organize and have a test run
# Analyze what went well and how we can improve in order to react and respond
# Official implementation

=2021 Strategic Priorities=

==='''Strategy #1 Improving Information Sharing on the Loyola Bulletin Board'''===

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia University provides students with a vast amount of information about upcoming events, student life, extracurricular activities, scholarships, study abroad programs, and more through a bulletin board on the Loyola Web Service. However, as we conducted research and interviews for the Landscape Canvas, we found that many students have a difficult time accessing this information due to issues with the search function, language barriers, and a number of other reasons. Not only do these barriers make it difficult for students to access general information provided by the University, but they also prevent students from easily finding opportunities related to Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Therefore, we developed the assumption that the Loyola bulletin board is not working as well as it should. In order to address this, our idea is to improve information sharing at Sophia by enhancing the current bulletin board. We hope that our research and findings can be a catalyst for more extensive developments of Loyola and act as a first step in improving information sharing at Sophia so that a greater number of both Japanese and international students can learn about I&E resources and opportunities that are available on campus.

===='''Structure:'''====
We will need to discuss what possibilities there are to improve the existing platform with the Loyola Web Admins at Sophia. Through the feedback we received from students via a questionnaire, we found that while there are some students who are satisfied with the current system, the majority of students are dissatisfied with the system and face common problems. Therefore, we believe that some minor modifications and the addition of several functions can have a significant impact on how students perceive the Loyola bulletin board and make important information even more accessible than it is now. Some of the changes we want to make to the Loyola bulletin board include: 1). An own category for I&E 2). A function to save posts 3). A filter function to separate posts written in English and Japanese 4). Adding more information written in English and making it easier to find 5). Adding more specific categories and a way to filter them 6). The ability to customize the type of information students receive by email.

===='''Steps:'''====
1. Create a first prototype, a vision of how we imagine it can look like. 2. Based on the feedback gathered from students on their experiences and opinions about the bulletin board’s functions, make a more detailed list of improvements we want to make. 3. Get in touch with the web administration at Sophia and explain to them the wishes of the students. In addition, find out if they are willing to work with us to improve the bulletin board. 4. Make adjustments based on possible limitations of the Loyola site. 5. Launch the new, improved Loyola bulletin board.

==='''Strategy #2: Sophia Interdisciplinary Forum'''===

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia University’s main campus in Yotsuya, Tokyo, is home to a wide range of faculties and graduate schools in both the sciences and humanities. However, through our research and interviews, we recognized that there are still many divides that exist between departments that make it difficult for students, faculty, and staff to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration. We believe that these barriers are stifling creativity and innovation. Therefore, we started to ask ourselves: “How might we create a space that brings together students from many different departments?” and “How might we break down the invisible walls between students, faculty, and staff?” The idea we had was to create a quarterly forum where anyone can freely join to discuss a wide range of topics that fit under the overarching theme of sustainability. Through the Interdisciplinary Forum, we aim to provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters communication, collaboration, and connection among students, faculty, and staff at Sophia. By breaking down disciplinary walls and bringing people together, we hope to promote more creative thinking and inspire participants to collaborate on innovative projects together. The Forum will act as a precursor to the Innovation Sparker Program (Strategy #3) and other I&E related activities on campus that can provide students with further skills to go through with possible ideas and projects to initiate change.

===='''Structure:'''====
The Interdisciplinary Forum will take place on a quarterly basis (once every three months), and it will be student-led and student-centered. However, it will also be welcome to all faculty and staff at Sophia who are interested in discussing topics and themes related to sustainability with students. To facilitate this Forum, we will need to organize a core group of students who can decide the quarterly themes, invite guest speakers, manage the social media platforms for advertising the forum, and oversee other important matters. This would also require the support of faculty and staff. The Forum will start conversations among different members of Sophia and influence participants to become more open to new ideas and ways of thinking.

===='''Steps:'''====
1. Share our ideas with students, professors, and staff members in order to collect feedback on specific matters, such as how to structure the Forum and what themes to include. 2. Define what makes this Forum distinct from other gatherings at Sophia. 3. Contact students, faculty, and staff who might be interested in organizing and/or participating in the Forum, such as those affiliated with SPSF. 4. Organize a group of students who can act as the core facilitators, as well as a group of faculty and staff who are willing to provide their support. 5. Decide what some of the quarterly themes for the Forum could be. 6. Decide whether this Forum will be conducted online or in person (if in person, where?) 7. Invite guest speakers to participate in the Forum. 8. Advertise on social media and the University bulletin boards (including Loyola).

==='''Strategy #3: Innovation Sparker: Design Thinking Intensive Program'''===

===='''Background:'''====
From our work with mapping out the opportunities that students at Sophia have to pursue I&E, we noticed that there is a need for more programs and events that focus on fostering innovative and critical thinking to solve real-world problems. For many students, I&E can seem like a complicated and intimidating field, requiring a specific skill set. Our goal, however, is to show students at Sophia that everyone can take advantage of learning how to utilize an innovative mindset and learn important techniques like Design Thinking. Furthermore, the interviews and surveys we conducted revealed that many students have some knowledge about I&E but do not know where they can apply it or evolve their ideas. Based on this, we developed the idea of creating a 3-week long educational program on Design Thinking, followed by a 5-week consulting and creation period. This will provide a space where students can get exposed to Design Thinking, apply their learned knowledge to solve real-life problems, network with industries, and take the first step in becoming a changemaker.

===='''Structure:'''====
3-Week Online Design Thinking Crash Course --> 5-Week Project Development and Mentoring --> Competition (theme-based)

The 3-week long bilingual (Japanese/English) Design Thinking program would be limited to Sophia University students who will participate in the program and faculty/staff who will teach the basics of Design Thinking. After completing the program, participants will be given the choice to either continue the full program or stop just at the crash course. Those who choose to continue will be introduced to the theme for the competition, and the projects they develop must address and provide solutions for the given problem. During the 5-week project development and creation period, students are free to work with either English or Japanese students to build their projects. Throughout this period, all students will be able to receive mentoring and support from the program facilitators and staff. After completing their projects, participants will face each other in the Innovation Sparker Competition, where external groups may also sign up to join as long as their project fits the theme. This competition would serve as a gateway for university-industry collaborations, as businesses could build networks with potential employees by providing support through monetary means or by becoming judges of the competition. Participants would then pitch their project/solutions to a panel of judges consisting of the following: company managers, guest speakers, professors, students, alumni, and the president. In addition to getting the chance to experience the entire process of bringing an idea into fruition, winners would also receive prize money, recognition from companies and the University, a wider web of networks, the opportunity to get scouted by companies, and/or graduation credits. The curriculum for the program can be seen below:

Curriculum: (1 Quarter = 8 weeks = Length of Summer break)

First Week:

- Design Thinking Introduction: What is its purpose or its effect? Why is it important? Where can it be used or applied?

- Explain the steps to design thinking

Second Week:

- Design Thinking Brainstorming

- Analyze Design Thinking Model Projects and how creators apply their knowledge to solve problems

- Guest Speaker Invitation

Third Week:

- Analysis of the competition theme

- Introduce participants to resources the University provides

- Group brainstorming

End of Base Design Thinking Introduction Program

Fourth-Eighth Week

Group Check-Ins, Prototyping, Testing, Refining, Preparation for competition, Creating presentations and slides

Competition Week

===='''Steps:'''====
1. Conduct further research to accurately determine the desirability of the program. 2. Consult with Sophia University professors if they would be interested in helping to host the program or becoming guest speakers. 3. Contact several companies interested in partnering up with Sophia University to help support a program like this. Gage their interest in hiring winners of the program and sponsoring some students as well. 4. Propose our idea to Sophia University administration and see if they are willing to support the program financially, publicly, and/or academically (by counting credits towards students’ graduation requirements). 5. Contact UIF fellows to ask if some would like to become guest speakers for the program. 6. Perform trial programs to test out teaching methods and how long to execute a project. 7. Release program and start accepting applicants.

=2020 Strategic Priorities=

==='''Strategy #1: Central Innovation/Opportunity Hub'''===

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia, as one of the represented schools in Japan, has provided opportunities and experiences for students to explore in their student lives. However, this information is often hidden in the school system, the websites, and bulletin boards. Often platforms for communication are filled with daily information such as school notifications and updates. Moreover, some program based opportunities are often communicated verbally by professors who do not show in the school online resources. Therefore, there is a need for students to have a central location where they could easily access this opportunity information to empower themselves and their school life. In other words, there is a need for Sophia university to have a virtual landscape that provides students with the latest programs/events where they can challenge themselves.

===='''Structure:'''====
This platform requires support from professors, the administration and students. These key roles are crucial users of this hub, and considering ways of implementation is necessary. Not only do we want to communicate information about opportunities that we have, but also take the most efficient process and output to make it into a user-friendly platform. We aim to create a process that can be sustainably managed after we graduate, but also something easy to use for the next generation who will be operating the system.

===='''Steps:'''====
1. In order to create this central hub, gathering as much information from professors, administrations, and from students/student organization is important. 2. Considering the information gathered, we would prototype a design of the website/platform that we would use for the hub. 3. Create the platform and implement functions for more efficiency of the platform. 4. Create templates and quick steps for those who will be adding information in the platform. 5. Try out the system with the information gathered. 6. Share it with a couple of students and revise the feedback points. 6. Open it to professors and students once updating the latest information. 7. Advertise the platform to the administration to be shared in the orientation for freshmen. 8. Advertise the platform to professors and students in class. 9. Fill in certain opportunities that are lacking or additional functions to adjust the diverse users in Sophia university.

==='''Strategy #2: Pop-Up I&E Workshop'''===

===='''Background:'''====
One of the core opportunities we have identified is the aspect of the community as a birthplace for innovation at Sophia University. We have particularly noticed the lack of opportunities for student’s to dive into I&E and the missing point of contact for I&E interested students. Even though there are students who would like to explore their interest in I&E, a central location or platform to take the first bite-size experience is provided.
To address this opportunity, we would like to introduce a beginners pop-up I&E workshop for all people in the Sophia ecosystem. This workshop will be a three-hour crash course for participants to experience I&E basics by going through a Design Thinking process. Over one year, we will introduce a framework and guideline for the workshop that can be adopted by future UIF leadership circles and workshop graduates. Our workshops will be open to all people of Sophia, and we will aim for diverse teams in this concept. The workshop participant sizes could vary from 20 to 50 people.

===='''Structure:'''====
For the pop-up workshops, we will not require significant support from Sophia University staff. Depending on the format, the UIF team will be able to facilitate the workshop entirely by themselves. In case of a physical format, we hope to receive support from the University for well-ventilated rooms on the Sophia campus. Additionally, we would require an innovation toolbox with resources that would need to be restocked regularly after every workshop. We will test out the workshop with various groups (product development students, global studies students and potentially freshmen) before opening doors to the entire Sophia community. For now, we will start with virtual workshops for classroom students and in-person workshops for first-year students, under the supervision of the University administration, which will allow us to adhere to COVID-19 pandemic regulations. For the project to gain momentum, we will also post updates on a social media account to bring students to our workshops in later phases. Key will be to train students in our guidelines so that they can be official workshop facilitators to ensure continuity at Sophia.

===='''Steps:'''====
1. Prepare a questionnaire to find out student needs for the workshop framework in a virtual and physical setting. Based on questionnaire results develop basic guidelines, that can be adopted by Sophia (approved by Sophia Administration for on-site workshops), 2. Set vital target groups for the Y1 and set pop-workshop amount (present details to University), 3. Set up meetings with target group representatives (e.g. Prof. Maruyama with FGS, Dean Nakano for FLA, Dean Shimomura for FSE), 4. Draft one pop-up workshop guideline for beginners, 5. Create a marketing campaign that proposes this workshop as something accessible and available to all., 6. Use a test group in Horizon to test out workshops before implementation on campus, 7. Start with workshops. Ensure diversity numbers for the workshop., 8. Train students in workshop guidelines

==='''Strategy #3: I&E Project Development Summer Camp'''===

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia University is home to many students who are passionate about learning about international cooperation. Many courses offered in Sophia encourage students to explore topics such as poverty, equality, gender and global warming. At the same time, Sophia University has established partnerships with many universities in different areas of the world. It offers students several overseas program opportunities in which the participants take classes which are provided by the local institution focusing on a specific topic.
Students who participate in these overseas programs perceive these as opportunities to find new areas of interest. They do so by observing diverse perspectives and talking to people who are at the frontline of their field of study. However, despite the skills and knowledge they gain, many students feel a lack of output from their learnings.
One student who cooperated with us in the UIF interviews had enrolled in a 3-week overseas program in Paris, France to study EU environmental law. However, she found it disappointing and wasteful that she was not able to implement her learnings into a real-life after her return. The student believed that her newly acquired knowledge could be utilized to improve environmental policies in Japan. The sense of disappointment is the opportunity we would like to address. Our project is a summer program which takes place in Sophia University to provide students with the platform of outputting the ideas earned in the overseas program.

===='''Structure:'''====
There are three roles in this program, the organizing committee, the participants and the judge. The program is entirely run by the organizing committee, which consists of students who have participated in overseas programs before. The organizing committee and the judge suggests a topic problem, which the participants will develop solutions for in teams. The solution ideas generated by the participants will be voted in by the judge, and the top 3 solution ideas will be applied to Sophia University campus.

===='''Steps:'''====
1. Form an initial program planning committee led by UIF fellow members., 2. Research overseas programs offered in Sophia University currently., 3. Interview the participants of the past overseas programs with the following questions. a) What were the new ideas you learned in the program? b) How would you want to apply the original idea in real life? 4. Collect the responses to the questions and research if the application environment respondents wished is offered in Sophia., 5. Invite more students to the program planning committee and brainstorm how the environment provided can be improved and design a program model., 6. Invite professors who will be the judge in the program., 7. Pitch the program model to the office and get an approval., 8. Make an official organizing committee consisting of students who have participated in an overseas program before., 9. Test run of the program model, reflection and adjustment.

==='''Strategy #4: Open Walls For Innovation'''===

https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/File:Storyboard_of_Open_Walls_for_Innovation.jpg

===='''Background:'''====
Sophia has one of the most internationally diverse and unique students in Tokyo. While the university is well known for its reputation of the humanities departments, when it comes to Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Sophia has been lacking behind other universities in Tokyo. The reason behind it does not necessarily mean the institution hasn't really invested in I&E, but rather that students never had the opportunity to engage with I&E and to actually practice it in order to truly grasp the potential of I&E.
Thus, before investing in any innovation labs, I&E boot camps, or I&E courses, students, as well as the institution as one, should work towards dismantling the narrative that I&E is only for the elite few, and work together towards understanding how innovation is for everyone. By introducing the Open Walls For Innovation Week, any open wall on campus becomes an innovative and entrepreneurial place for ideation, conversation, or to simply have fun. The goal is to create an innovative environment where students including the faculty, such as professors, are invited to share everything they have got to share, which they usually cannot do. This is would be extremely powerful since many students in Japan do not have the opportunity to truly engage with each other and to share ideas. Open Walls For Innovation wants to change that.

===='''Structure:'''====
This project will not require any staff, since the people who will work the most are basically everyone who walks along the walls of Sophia. However, we would require a small team responsible for re-stocking resources of the innovation toolboxes. Since we will start out with a trial, at only one designated place, instead of everywhere, it will be easier to manage and calculate how many post-its, sharpies, and utilities will be used. As for now due to the COVID-19 pandemic students are not allowed to enter the campus, thus, this is the ideal time to plan, manage, and ask for help. In order for the project to gain momentum, we will also establish a social media account, as well as, an online platform for students who cannot come to campus to participate.

===='''Steps:'''====
1. Conduct two pieces of research: Firstly, to understand whether students would participate and show interest in such a project. Secondly, to find sponsors or funds for the innovation toolboxes.
2. Formalize a Mission and Vision with the collected data
3. Organize a trial run for the project for two to three days to collect feedback and find the ideal locations.
4. Pitch the project to the administration to ask for funds and approval.
5. Create an online presence for the project.
5. Pilot Open Walls For Innovation Week

{{CatTree|Sophia University}}
[[Category:Student Priorities]]
[[Category:Sophia University]]

School:Sophia University

2022-09-20T12:31:04Z

Sanasofiahorikawa:

[[File:Sophia University Logo1.png|thumb]]
[[File:Sophia University Logo.jpg|thumb|link=Special:FilePath/Sophia_University_Logo.jpg]]

==A General Overview of Sophia University==

Sophia University (Jouchi Daigaku 上智大学) is one of the most prominent private universities in Japan. Founded in 1913 by the Roman Catholic religious order of the Society of Jesus, it has grown from its three original departments of Philosophy, German Literature, and Commerce to nine undergraduate faculties and ten graduate schools, with over 13,900 students in total.

While physically located in the heart of Tokyo, right across the Imperial Palace, Sophia University is also close to the socio-economic and political core of Japanese society. From its early days, the University has been a center for internationalization and to this day continues to act as a bridge to the wider world. Many of its graduates find their way into fields such as the media (national broadcasters like NHK), global development (international organizations like the United Nations), or global business (multinational corporations).

==Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship==

Sophia University is continuously developing as a higher education institution. In recent years, it has shifted away from a classical discipline-based institution to one that aims to be more innovative and student-centered. An example is the Faculty of Liberal Arts (FLA), which offers English-taught undergraduate degrees. This faculty has increased interactions between Japanese and international students, and many of its professors have been at the university’s forefront in adopting innovative teaching methods.

Recently, Sophia University has been increasingly focused on the environment and sustainable development. Many of its programs have conscientiously incorporated courses related to the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs (a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015). As a prominent institution for research and higher education in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences, Sophia University was one among 37 Japanese universities to be selected for the “Top Global University Project” – a funding project initiated by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to support the innovation and internationalization efforts of universities. Based on this project, Sophia University launched a new English-based undergraduate program called “Sophia Program for Sustainable Futures” (SPSF) in the fall of 2020. This program brings together seven different disciplines (journalism, education, sociology, economics, management, international relations, and area studies) and is designed to foster interdisciplinary and action-oriented learning.

Another English-taught degree program known as the Faculty of Science and Technology aims to educate future scientists and technologists to become productive members of the global community. Students at the Faculty of Science and Technology seek a deeper understanding of human development and harmonious coexistence with people and nature.

In addition to these curricular programs, there have been interactive events for students to engage with and spark innovation. United Nations Week and Mirai 2.0 Research and Innovation Week are a few annual events that allow active learning through the collaboration of industries and academic institutions.

Overall, the university’s core values of respect for equality, diversity, and contribution to the larger social good are captured into its motto: “Men and Women, With Others, For Others.” These values permeate not only its academic curriculum but also guide students in their extracurricular activities. Students undertake many volunteer activities run inside and outside the university, but also beyond Japan, such as the support activities focused on refugees, or the areas damaged by the Great Tohoku Earthquake, to name a few. Extracurricular clubs that promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity include Horizon (a student empowerment organization committed to inspiring youth to create innovative solutions for social change) and Sophia Start-up Club (Sophia University’s first entrepreneurship organization established in 2021). Other programs that generate awareness and fundamental elements of I&E include TEDxSophia and Sophia University Future Center.

==Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship==

Responding to the need to further develop as a “university in line with the world,” Sophia University has been taking bold steps in rethinking the old approach to teaching and learning. Through various initiatives, it has sought to reform “towards a qualitative change in university education to build a new future” for Japanese society and foster a “knowledge-based independence, collaboration, and creative model” which “cultivates independent thinking and creativity” (Report of the Central Equation Council, August 2012).

However, while Sophia University has focused on working in the areas of innovation in recent years, the institution lacks resources for promoting entrepreneurship. There continue to be limitations, such as not having offices, faculties, or organizations that are specifically focused on encouraging students to explore I&E. Sophia University hopes to improve on these areas in the near future through new programs such as SPSF.

==Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function==

Sophia University is active in funding and supporting research programs through the Sophia Research Support Organization. The Organization has been exploring the possibility of further expanding its research support system and providing enhanced support for faculty to commercialize their research. It aims to act as an incubator that would facilitate successful technology transfers, licensing, and innovation projects. In this way, Sophia University is working to advance development projects through collaboration between industry, government, and academia.

In addition, Sophia University has several seed funding sources for students’ activities. For extracurricular activities, Sophia University provides grant support each semester for the University’s official extracurricular activities. Students go through the process of examination by submitting a proposal and having an interview to receive the grant and report the usage and the impact of the project. Likewise, despite not being a group specifically at Sophia University, many of its students actively utilize a social incubator for movements and change-makers called Social Innovation Japan where they can join its community to get information and opportunities regarding topics they are passionate about.

In 2021, Sophia University joined the Renewable Energy University League of Japan. The universities that join this community aim to transition their campuses to 100% renewable energy between 2030 and 2040. Sophia University is trying to encourage its students to also take action for renewable energy and decarbonization.

==Facilitating university-industry collaboration==
Recognizing that Japan’s industry-academia collaboration is poor compared to Western countries, Sophia University's Faculty of Science and Engineering created the “Sophia Science & Technology Liaison Office” in November of 2001 to transfer research breakthroughs more easily into society. Unfortunately, this organization is no longer in operation within the University, but its impacts have left a strong impression on the I&E community and students involved in its mission.

Another way Sophia University emphasizes industry-academia collaboration is through the Bulletin Board of Information found in the student portal. The University posts about scholarship opportunities and programs involving university-business collaborations. Some of these scholarships and programs offer students opportunities to engage with industries and learn I&E skills by working directly with them. Not only are students given a chance to expand their range of experiences by applying to these activities, but they are also able to build their own networks for their future careers. On the other hand, some of the posts within the Bulletin Board of Information are related to research labs and research funding. Sophia University highly values quality research and the involvement of students in developing new technologies and thus often offers these openings to its entire student body.

Although Sophia University’s history with innovation and entrepreneurship (I&E) is short, the institution’s efforts such as opening new programs and opportunities for innovation to faculty and students have become more apparent in the past few years. Over time, a growing number of faculty members have become active in organizing events and activities where they encourage students to incorporate entrepreneurial skills and mindsets.

==Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Efforts==
Sophia University has been promoting educational and research activities based on a spirit of charity and globalism through encounters and dialogues with people of diverse backgrounds in the hope to bring forth solutions to the many problems that torment our world today. Through its participation in the Inter-University Exchange Project called the “Collaborative Online International Learning,” Sophia University offers programs towards Human Security and Multicultural Coexistence which allow students in Japan to connect and learn together with other students at institutions in Japan and abroad.

In November 2015, the University signed the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) supported by the United Nations with the aim to realize a sustainable society. These principles advocate for the incorporation of environmental, societal, and corporate governance concerns into investment decisions. As a private corporation that operates education and research institutes, and as a responsible asset owner, Sophia University assumes its responsibility and contributes to solving the various issues facing our global society through its ESG investment.

In addition to that, the Sophia School Corporation is currently conducting the construction of a new ‘green’ building on campus to be used for various purposes, including community events and academic gatherings for working professionals. The Corporation also plans to establish a disaster prevention warehouse that is accessible to the public.

To conclude, Sophia University is located at the center of one of the busiest metropolitan areas in the world. It also gathers together the best and the brightest domestic and international students and faculty, giving it unique advantages and opportunities. Maximizing them will continue to require innovative and creative thinking. This is where the mindset and skills of the UIF Community can potentially make a meaningful contribution.


{{CatTree|Sophia University}}

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[[Category:Sophia University]]

Resource talk:How to organize an unconference

2022-09-05T00:25:10Z

Sanasofiahorikawa: /* Unconference */ new section

I think the unconference is so awesome! I think not enforcing any particular event agenda allows people to discover the true, authentic passions of the people around them. Mixing official business with a little personal flavor allows people to form connections in a real way, as opposed to the dry exchange of ideas on a more intellectual level at a traditional conference. Obviously, there are disadvantages to this lack of structure but I know this approach is sorely needed for many places in academia and industry.

I haven't heard of this type of conference before and I believe it is a very different concept. It can be beneficial for attendees and creates an organic sharing environment rather than the ordinary setup of any conference where hosts are on the stage and others are listening. It can be hard to start a conversation for some people at the beginning, but we can get used to it!

== The UnConference ==

I dig the "everyone is an expert" model of the unconference. I don't think it precludes the value of traditional conferences, but the world definitely needs more unconferences.

== Unconference ==

I found this concept very interesting, as academic and/or professional discussions can be made with different people in a passionate manner. Although some people do play the two feet away rule outside unconferences, it may feel disrespectful for both parties, for which this set rule may optimize engagement and learning. I think it would be a great idea to have these unconferences in addition to any traditional conference, as both are informative and have their own purpose.

Topic:X24mfwmcgcc2vwsy

2022-08-29T08:45:58Z

Sanasofiahorikawa (talk | contribs) commented on "Sana's WHY" (Hello! I am Sana Horikawa, majoring in sociology at Sophia University. As for my motivators to change higher education, I believe my expe...)

Fellow:Sana Horikawa

2022-08-28T05:27:58Z

Sanasofiahorikawa: Created Fellow Page - 2022

{| class="wikitable" style="border: 5px ridge grey; float:right;"
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|[[File:Sana_Horikawa_profile_picture.JPG|300px]]
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;Name: Sana Horikawa
;School (Cohort): Sophia University (2022 cohort)
;Majoring in: Sociology
;Country: Japan
;Email: [[Special:EmailUser/Sanasofiahorikawa]]
|}

==Bio==
Sana Horikawa, an upcoming sophomore at Sophia University, is currently majoring in sociology (SPSF program). Brought up in a Japanese household but being born in Chile and having lived in Guatemala, Ethiopia, Cambodia, and the Dominican Republic, she often finds herself struggling with her identity. Along this journey, she has witnessed social issues in many contexts, for which she has a strong will to work for those socially vulnerable including refugees and those lacking basic needs.

==Achievements==
Although Sana's academic drive often intimidates others, she is also passionate about social work and interacting with diverse people. This year, she has worked with people experiencing social withdrawal and truancy at a non-profit organization for a few months, in addition to her long-term work at a child welfare facility for those with severe mental illnesses. Back in high school where she graduated as valedictorian, she was deeply involved in the Model United Nations (MUN) Club. She participated in 9 international and domestic conferences, won some awards, and organized 2 conferences as Under-Secretary-General (2020) and Head Ambassador (2021). Despite this, she was most impacted when implementing a MUN Club in a public school and teaching them skills for negotiation and redaction. Strongly believing in the power of the youth, she is eager to create more effective system changes and social impacts on her environment.

==Social media profiles==

[[Category:Sophia University (2022 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Sophia University}}

User:Sanasofiahorikawa

2022-08-28T05:27:58Z

Sanasofiahorikawa: Redirect to Fellow Page

#REDIRECT [[Fellow:Sana Horikawa]]

File:Sana Horikawa profile picture.JPG

2022-08-28T04:51:06Z

Sanasofiahorikawa: