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About NeuroMusic Lab

Our daily lives are overflowing with music. But when asked, 'What is music?', how many people in this world can insightfully discern its truth based on scientific knowledge? Music exists in our everyday life as if it's a given. However, we still do not know much about music. The main theme of the NeuroMusic Lab is to unravel the 'unknowns' of music and scientifically approach its essence.

In recent years, with the dramatic advancements in neurosciences, the way music is processed in the human brain and body, and the mechanisms behind it, have gradually been elucidated. Among the findings, what is particularly intriguing is that the music we casually enjoy is deeply connected to the very essence of human beings, including our culture, evolution, development, sociability, creativity, perception, cognition, movement, memory, emotions, and learning. Why are our human brains and bodies equipped with the ability to be moved by music, to find solace in it, to dance, sing, perform, and enjoy sounds? Unraveling this from a neuroscience perspective is nothing less than an exploration of human nature. 'Neurosciences and Music: NeuroMusic' is a field of study that investigates how musical information is processed in the human brain and nervous system, and how it creates rich and unique mental states, exploring its origins and principles. NeuroMusic is an exciting scientific research field that promises to approach the essence and origins of humanity.

The purpose of this Kenkyukai is to unravel the origins and principles of the musicality of humans, focusing on the Neurosciences and Music (NeuroMusic) as its theme. Those who are curious about what music truly is and are interested in pioneering the field of music science are encouraged to knock on the door of this Kenkyukai.

This Seminar consists of two projects: (1) Comparative Media Studies and (2) Learning Environment Design. Participants are required to choose either project depending on their individual research theme, however, a later change is also possible. In this group work-based seminar the students are expected to participate and contribute actively. They will also receive feedback on the content of their own projects. In addition to this seminar’s group work, participants are expected to work with resources not related to their own native language.
Details are as follows:
(1) Comparative media research project
Information related to news and events we come into contact with every day is presented in a variety of media in the form of "words," "pictures," and "videos." The content is shared not only in Japan but also worldwide, such as COVID-19, air pollution, global warming, and the energy transition.
This news content is presented from various perspectives, even on familiar topics. Different broadcast "languages," such as English, German, French, Chinese, Korean, etc., convey different content compared to news content broadcast in Japanese. Differences in media language can also lead to variations in published images, chosen expressions, focus, presentation of issues, etc. Where do these "differences" come from exactly? What do the differences in media representation signify? In this workshop, we will guide the participants in discovering and discussing these issues by raising as questions. The topics will be based on individual awareness of issues in different fields (culture, society, education, literature, religion, art, feminism, sport, etc.). They will be discussed and explored using the collected materials. Some research topics to date have included a comparative analysis of German, British, and US newspaper articles on March 11, the overseas reception of Japanese cartoons and their analysis, a comparison of Japanese and European musical performances, a comparison of non-verbal communication functions in political speeches in Japan and the US, a comparative analysis of clothing design advertising in Japan and the US, and a comparative analysis of sports articles. Investigate the differences between the Japanese and English perspectives on the publication of sports articles, reception, and analysis of literary works through translation, etc.

(2) Designing a learning environment Learning Design Project (LDP)
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the learning environment surrounding us has transitioned from the era when paper-based media dominated to digital media and web-based learning. Each learner needs to create their own learning style by their preferences, utilizing various types of media. The project will involve various practices, productions, and processes, aiming to answer the question: "How do we design the learning environment?". The project will focus on 1) researching learning styles, 2) creating and utilizing learning materials, and 3) evaluating learning materials. Each learner selects their own research topic, including foreign language learning, design, environment, history, and culture. Some of the works produced in the workshop project include a vocabulary search program that utilizes the German-English database, German learning materials that incorporate video data, a pronunciation exercise program that enables simultaneous voice and facial muscle movements on the web and on the iPhone, a history simulation game for secondary schools, a web-based math learning program for secondary schools, a children's law textbook targeting primary schools, the tea ceremony as a form of lifelong learning, and the development of digital teaching materials for it, etc.

Minamata city is located at south part of Kumamoto prefecture. Its population is about 23,000. Minamata city has very beautiful nature like Shiranui see and Kyushu mountains. But in 1956, Minamata disease are recognized.
In this seminar, we investigate Minamata disease and its background. Also you are expected to investigate current Minamata city's situation. And then, we are going to consider how to revitalize Minamata city.

Value Design in the Age of Human Survival

Outline of "x-Music" Seminar

What is music? What kind of music should we create and express to the world? In this
"x-Music" seminar, we will explore the value and potential of music and try to create the next music that has yet to be named (= x-Music). We will create the "x-Music" from the following perspectives.

1. Create the next unknown music (= x-Music) that has yet to be named.
   


2. Explore ways of making music in extreme (eXtreme) situations
   


3. Continue Producing experimental (eXperimental) prototype music.
   


4. Cross boundaries to create synergy of values and ideas (X)
   


5. Express yourself (eXpression) through music.
   

About NeuroMusic Lab

Our daily lives are overflowing with music. But when asked, 'What is music?', how many people in this world can insightfully discern its truth based on scientific knowledge? Music exists in our everyday life as if it's a given. However, we still do not know much about music. The main theme of the NeuroMusic Lab is to unravel the 'unknowns' of music and scientifically approach its essence.

In recent years, with the dramatic advancements in neurosciences, the way music is processed in the human brain and body, and the mechanisms behind it, have gradually been elucidated. Among the findings, what is particularly intriguing is that the music we casually enjoy is deeply connected to the very essence of human beings, including our culture, evolution, development, sociability, creativity, perception, cognition, movement, memory, emotions, and learning. Why are our human brains and bodies equipped with the ability to be moved by music, to find solace in it, to dance, sing, perform, and enjoy sounds? Unraveling this from a neuroscience perspective is nothing less than an exploration of human nature. 'Neurosciences and Music: NeuroMusic' is a field of study that investigates how musical information is processed in the human brain and nervous system, and how it creates rich and unique mental states, exploring its origins and principles. NeuroMusic is an exciting scientific research field that promises to approach the essence and origins of humanity.

The purpose of this Kenkyukai is to unravel the origins and principles of the musicality of humans, focusing on the Neurosciences and Music (NeuroMusic) as its theme. Those who are curious about what music truly is and are interested in pioneering the field of music science are encouraged to knock on the door of this Kenkyukai.

This is a seminar for students who study the society, history and culture of the Middle East.

Arab Cultural Studies Lab aims to deepen our understanding of the contemporary Arab society by studying the language and culture of Arab countries. Also we try to find a point of contact between the Japanese society and the Arab society, and promote the activities that will build a bridge between them.

Outline of "x-Music" Seminar

What is music? What kind of music should we create and express to the world? In this
"x-Music" seminar, we will explore the value and potential of music and try to create the next music that has yet to be named (= x-Music). We will create the "x-Music" from the following perspectives.

1. Create the next unknown music (= x-Music) that has yet to be named.
   


2. Explore ways of making music in extreme (eXtreme) situations
   


3. Continue Producing experimental (eXperimental) prototype music.
   


4. Cross boundaries to create synergy of values and ideas (X)
   


5. Express yourself (eXpression) through music.
   

This seminar aims to pursue the cutting-edge of public administration research. Reading the English literature, students will learn what cutting-edge public administration research is. Given the literature review, students are asked to select a vital issue with public administration and then develop a research approach toward the issue.

Another activity of this seminar is fieldwork. Specifically, the students who conducted the fieldwork during the summer will write a proposal for the policy competition organized by Wakayama Prefecture. The seminar will also implement a research camp in Yamanashi, Niigata, or Gunma where the population is declining.

This seminar aims to pursue the cutting-edge of public administration research. Reading the English literature, students select a vital issue with public administration and then develop a research approach toward the issue. Given the research topic and progress, students will learn public administration thoeries and research methodologies.

Another activity of this seminar is fieldwork. Specifically, the seminar will present a policy proposal drawn from the fieldwork at the policy comeptition organized by the Japanese Cabinet Office. To win this competition, English and Japanse seminars will work together to present our policy idea.

This seminar will be centered on the Cyber Workshop, a volunteer activity in which members of this seminar teach elementary, junior high and high school students on the safe use of Internet and SNS.
Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the workshops as well as regular seminar activities.

The goal of this research group is to develop coaching that can be utilized in the community. Coaching is not only sport-specific, but we will develop generic coaching that can be used in all communities. Coaching practices that can be applied to society are required.
The following projects have already been started.
(1)Coaching from a life skills perspective
(2)Coaching children
(3)Life skills in junior high school club community collaboration
(4)Gender and sports
(5)Body sense
(6)Others (negotiable)

This seminar aims to acquire the skills and knowledge to quantitatively analyze various issues in contemporary society using data and econometric methods. This seminar is held jointly with Makiko Nakamuro's seminar .

Mission: In Search of Future of Organizations

Organizations increasingly rely on technologies to operate, organize, and innovate in this AI/big data era. Also, radical changes in the society such as issues related to diversity, inclusion, equity, sustainability, environment, and governance have huge impacts on how we (should) manage organizations. We collectively explore the future of organizations, which is a frontier of management studies and practice. Topics include future of work, new organizational forms, digital organizational culture, decentralized autonomous organizations, diversity and inclusion management, people analytics, collective intelligence and open innovation. We approach these themes from various perspectives and methods including (but not limited to) qualitative case studies and data science, and project works with business partners in the real world.

Our lab is seriously exploring the frontiers of the future of organizations. More specific topics in past years include: human capital management, digital cities and open innovation in collaboration with local governments; organizations and careers from the perspective of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; language and organizations; the growth of startups and angel investors. These themes are being explored by companies, practitioners, and researchers around the world on an ongoing basis, and no one has the right answers yet. We would like to explore with you essential and future-oriented organizational management issues that are worthy of being addressed by SFC students from the future.

To explore the above themes, we implement a multifaceted approach. We will establish multiple project teams and collaborate with companies and external researchers to conduct both practical problem-solving projects and research activities that explore the frontiers of knowledge. Please check the details of specific ongoing research projects at the information session of our lab. We also welcome members who are willing to bring their own areas of interest to the research group and launch new projects on their own (details will be discussed with the faculty member in charge). In conducting research, we will use qualitative research (case study) approaches based on interviews and fieldwork, as well as quantitative research approaches based on survey research and experiments, according to the preferences of each project member.

Based on these general themes and approaches, students will be encouraged to explore specific projects in a creative and student-driven manner. In particular, as this is a new lab, starting in April 2021, you will be creating the history of the study group. We hope to create the best possible study group with members who share our ambitious attempt to launch a new study group.

Mission: In Search of Future of Organizations

We live in various "organizations" such as schools, companies, and club activities. Although the form and purpose may differ, the concept of "organization" is an extremely familiar and important theme for all of us. Organization theory is an academic discipline that explores how people collaborate together in society to achieve common goals, regardless of whether they are for-profit or non-profit.

Our mission is in search of future of organizations. Organizations increasingly rely on technologies to operate, organize, and innovate in this AI/big data era. Also, radical changes in the society such as issues related to diversity, inclusion, equity, sustainability, environment, and governance have huge impacts on how we (should) manage organizations. We collectively explore the future of organizations, which is a frontier of management studies and practice. We approach these themes from various perspectives and methods including (but not limited to) qualitative case studies and data science, and project works with business partners in the real world.

Research Projects in 2024
Our lab is seriously exploring the frontiers of the future of organizations.
- Digital future city project (collaboration with Tsuyama city in Okayama)
- New ways of working in the age of XR (collaboration with Dynabook Inc.)
- Leaders and Narrative
- Startup CEO Strategy
- Workcation
- Great place to work (work engagement and work environment)

These themes are being explored by companies, practitioners, and researchers around the world on an ongoing basis, and no one has the right answers yet. We would like to explore with you essential and future-oriented organizational management issues that are worthy of being addressed by SFC students from the future.

For the reference, research topics in past years include:
- Human capital management & Digital organizations
- Organizations and careers from the perspective of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- The growth of startups and angel investors
- Freelance work and regional revitalization
- web 3 and DAO

To explore the above themes, we implement a multifaceted approach. We will establish multiple project teams and collaborate with companies and external researchers to conduct both practical problem-solving projects and research activities that explore the frontiers of knowledge. Please check the details of specific ongoing research projects at the information session of our lab. In conducting research, we will use qualitative research (case study) approaches based on interviews and fieldwork, as well as quantitative research approaches based on survey research and experiments, according to the preferences of each project member.

Based on these general themes and approaches, students will be encouraged to explore specific projects in a creative and student-driven manner. In particular, as this is a new lab, starting in April 2021, you will be creating the history of the study group. We hope to create the best possible study group with members who share our ambitious attempt to launch a new study group.

This seminar will provide the academic training to write individual research paper by using microdata and the methods of applied econometrics. Research topic will be chosen by each student.

"Culture" is certainly gaining weight in contemporary life, politics, economics, development, diplomacy, and international relations, but its treatment in the framework of social analysis and policy formation is still lacking. In this lecture, we will discuss the role of "culture" in the age of globalization, focusing on its position and significance in policy making, implementation, and evaluation (in the broadest sense). What is soft power? Why is it attracting attention? What is the essence of soft power theory? Is it possible to draw a line between soft power and hard power? How can its effectiveness be measured? Is it applicable not only to international relations, but also to domestic politics, social life, and human relations? How can soft power be utilized? What is the next generation of soft power and how can it be used?

Students are expected to work on a graduation project on "soft power" in this workshop.

The theme for FY2024 will be "Soft Power"

This course is designed to instruct students who wish to write their papers on Legal Policies.

This course is designed to assist students to understand jurisprudence.

We will be exploring fundamental mechanisms that are creating new trends (such as generative AI based business models) in the economy and society. We believe that emerging information technologies are changing the foundations of today's society and thereby changing the way societies (including businesses) function. We might call it emergence of a new civilization. The way businesses are organized, the way we work, and how the wealth is distributed will all have to change. This seminar aspires to understand the nature of the new civilization and envision how businesses (act of sustainable creation of value) will look like in the future. In order to look into the future, we should also understand how and why the present systems came to be the way they are now. We also need to base our thinking on the realities, rather than fiction. This means we will have to study evidence in the history and the present to find for clues that may indicate our future. To this goal, the classes will consist of (1) basic training of business including fundamentals of accounting, (2) readings on basics of business, (3) readings/discussions on the emerging character of business in the digital age, and (4) case discussions on various topics. There will be reading assignments and discussion sessions using selected papers on the relationship between technology and business. In addition to the selected readings, there will be an accounting test each week based on Piper, Mike (2013), “Accounting Made Simple: Accounting Explained in 100 Pages or Less”, Simple Subjects.

Intend to offer the class on-campus. Occasional teaching on-demand conceivable when the instructor has to be away. A few new students will be admitted for the Spring 2024 semester. Students who received A or above in the Management of Emerging Business or Network Industries will be given preferential consideration. Please note that Kenkyu-kai (2) is similar in topic but will be in Japanese and the majority of reading will be different. Students will be allowed to take both depending of the availability of open slots.

Please know that the instructor is retiring at the end of March, 2025 and will not be able to provide GP1 or GP2 classes after that.

We will be exploring fundamental mechanisms that are creating new trends (such as generative AI based business models) in the economy and society. We believe that emerging information technologies are changing the foundations of today's society and thereby changing the way societies (including businesses) function. We might call it emergence of a new civilization. The way businesses are organized, the way we work, and how the wealth is distributed will all have to change. This seminar aspires to understand the nature of the new civilization and envision how businesses (act of sustainable creation of value) will look like in the future. In order to look into the future, we should also understand how and why the present systems came to be the way they are now. We also need to base our thinking on the realities, rather than fiction. This means we will have to study evidence in the history and the present to find for clues that may indicate our future. To this goal, the classes will consist of (1) basic training of business including fundamentals of accounting, (2) readings on basics of business, (3) readings/discussions on the emerging character of business in the digital age, and (4) case discussions on various topics. There will be reading assignments and discussion sessions using selected papers on the relationship between technology and business. In addition to the selected readings, there will be an accounting test each week based on Piper, Mike (2013), “Accounting Made Simple: Accounting Explained in 100 Pages or Less”, Simple Subjects.

Intend to offer the class on-campus. Occasional teaching on-demand conceivable when the instructor has to be away. A few new students will be admitted for the Spring 2024 semester. Students who received A or above in the Management of Emerging Business or Network Industries will be given preferential consideration. Please note that Kenkyu-kai (2) is similar in topic but will be in Japanese and the majority of reading will be different. Students will be allowed to take both depending of the availability of open slots.

Please know that the instructor is retiring at the end of March, 2025 and will not be able to provide GP1 or GP2 classes after that.

This seminar will provide the academic training to write individual research paper by using microdata and the methods of applied econometrics. Research topic will be chosen by each student.