School of Human Environmental SciencesInformatics and Mediology

Department Objective

Our department's objective is to train not only information specialists(experts)and but also generalists(comprehensive professionals)through practical problem-solving project experiences based on familiarity with information and communications technology(ICT).

Within the processes of sifting through the abundance of information available in the world, namely, 1) categorizing and editing, 2) analysis and integration, and 3) expression and presentation, we aim to train students to acquire advanced skills in information production, processing, and distribution, and to cultivate applied skills enabling them to develop creative contents, within not only the field of computing but all diverse genres, such as new product development and urban planning, including fashion, gastronomic culture, and tourism. In terms of the problem-solving approach, students study the whole courses of informatics and mediology, from programming and data analysis to marketing research and total social solution proposals.

Three Features of the Department

ICT
In addition to acquiring proficiency in business applications such as word processors, spreadsheets, and presentations, students will master advanced applied applications and programming languages, such as web-site design and computer graphics. Through these studies, students will, for example, analyze big data statistically, simulate mathematical models, and develop unique formulations.
PBL
To pragmatically approach actual challenges faced by businesses, administration, and local communities, students form small project teams in practicums and seminar units. We conduct Project-Based-Learning(PBL)through a process whereby, following a problem-solving flowchart, students ascertain the reality of problems via fieldwork in the locale and interviews with experts, and then gather information, perform an analysis, create a strategy, and present the solution-proposals.
Media Environment
The Multimedia Building situated within our department is complete with a media environment of the highest standard, such as a computer suite equipped with one PC per person, a media hall, a basement movie-studio, and a multimedia practicum room. In particular, to encourage students'independent project studies, we have an on-demand seminar practicum room in which students can use computers, hold meetings and give presentations in small groups of 10-20 students.

Academics & Research