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Prof. Motoyama of OSU Visits UT, Students Participate in PBL Seminar
On December 24, 2024, Prof. Motoyama visited Tsukuba. The purpose of his visit was to shoot ISS-PBL lecture videos. Yasuyuki (Yas) Motoyama is an Associate Professor at the City and Regional Planning of the Knowlton School. He conducts research about regional economic development and urban vibrancy through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Professors’ documentary in the making of the ISS course classes
On the afternoon of Christmas Eve, the film crew and Prof. Motoyama arrive at Prof. Matsushima’s office. In the 3B presentation room, the venue for the event, three cameras follow Prof. Motoyama as he gives a lecture to the students.
Bringing in tables and chairs, Prof. Matsushima and Prof. Motoyama mindlessly set up the venue. The eyes of both teachers express the anxiety in their hearts.
What if the students don’t show up?
Prof. Motoyama, standing alone at the podium, is absorbed in the simulation of his class. Seemingly calm, his worries are endless.
What if the group work is not as exciting as the American students and the classroom becomes silent?
Although the day is Christmas Eve, 15 students arrived. The relieved look on Prof. Matsushima’s face is impressive.
The class started. An initial grab is the key.
Prof. Motoyama quickly switches between Japanese and English with a sense of humor, moves around the classroom in a big way, and tries to liven up the place. The students’ nervousness began to ease. Although the lecture was given in English, the students seemed relaxed.
Even in group work of concern, spontaneous comments break the silence. For students who have trouble coming up with quick words, Prof. Motoyama helps with pinpoint English vocabulary. Everyone enjoys the content of the class, transcending language barriers.
The video of Prof. Motoyama’s lecture will be available on JV-Campus during the 2nd week of the PBL course. Please look forward to it!