Field Trip- JICA

Yesterday, we had a field trip to JICA at Koksai taking all the 9th graders (about 80 total).  JICA, or Japan International Cooperation Agency, is a program that concentrates on globalization (providing support and education).  I felt very lucky to participate and gain more knowledge on a dear topic while I'm in a foreign country.  The schedule included awareness of Africa's culture and economic status, the world's current socio-economic status, and also why some countries have different gender, life-expectency, and food supplies than Japan.  Although I could not understand most of the lectures, the passion of the speaker definitely came through. 

Students were so excited about this trip.  They sang during the entire bus ride (about an hour).  When we arrived, students made formations inside the building and waited for the next set of instructions.  We had to greet the organization with a bow and a formal greeting.  Then they led us to the gym and we had to take off our shoes.  The first session included some interactive games, but several techniques stuck out to me. 

First was the many types of formations that students know.  Yamasaki sensei just say the type of formation and they will get into lines faster and better than a beginning marching band.  This immediately eliminates most talking problems and creates a sense of unity and teamwork.

Next, each student has a number.  When the speaker finished his/her presentation, the students are given a period of time to ask questions.  Problem is, most are very shy and do not want to ask anything.  So the speaker can then start calling numbers and the student must stand up and ask a questions.  I guess this way, the students know that they need to have at least one question prepared. 

Third, the students are all very supportive at Shinonome Jr. HS.  There is always a sense of cooperation and teamwork.  At school, students are always given time to discuss with a neighbor before answering questions.  While we were at JICA, students would constantly discuss with one another for the best possible solution.

All in all, I'd say this was one super fun field trip.  We tried on clothes from different countries and got to play on many different percussion instruments. 

I think I'll look into JICA for future involvement.  That way, I'll have an excuse to come back to Hiroshima AND still travel around the world.   :)