EducationChair's Massage

Makoto Itoh (Chair of the College)

Information technology supporting the era of transformation.

Our lives have changed substantially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Although face-to-face conversations have increased compared to the time when strict social distancing was implemented, the opportunity to communicate through computer displays has also become more common in our daily lives. In universities, many classes have returned to face-to-face instruction, but online classes continue to be implemented for courses where high educational effectiveness is expected. Information/communication technology supports this era of transformation. Today, our lives would not be possible without technologies, such as network technology that enables high-speed communication, technology that enables seamless processing of movies and audios, security technology that enables safe and secure activities on the network, and advanced analytical technology that utilizes AI.

Not Enough Talent!

There is a significant shortage of engineers and researchers who can support the development of information/communication technologiescompared to what is required in society. In response to this situation, new faculties and departments related to information and data science are being established in universities both in Japan and abroad, and the overall level is expected to improve. In the future, it is considered important to have information/communication technology professionals in leadership positions who can lead society. We aim to be an organization that produces such leaders in information science and are committed to daily educational activities.

Why choose the College of Information Science?

In today’s world where buzzwords like AI and data science are rampant, there are many faculties and programs (or educational organizations equivalent to them) where one can study information science and technology, both domestically and internationally. So, what are the reasons for choosing the College of Information Science?

In the College of Information Science program, one can deeply study all the tiers of information science and technology, from the physical levels such as hardware and network, to the higher levels such as operating systems, applications, and even human-computer interaction. By learning not only the know-how but also the essential know-why, one can acquire true knowledge and skills that can be utilized in any era, without being swayed by trends. In addition, there are various practical learning opportunities available, such as "Special Exercise in Information Science" where students can choose their own topic to work on development, "Campus OJT on Embedded Technology" where instructors from companies are invited to carry out practical development, and "enPiT" where students work on development as a team.

Once again, why choose the Department of Information Science?

Historically, freedom has been highly valued in the world of the Internet. Freedom and mutual support bring unexpected value. For example, one can publish their own program, including the source code, for anyone to freely use. Another person can improve on the code and create an even better program. This positive cycle is the basis for the development of the Internet. In the College of Information Science, students engage in various activities with a positive and free atmosphere. For instance, students manage the educational computer system operated by the College. They also edit the magazine, named WORD, and collaborate with venture companies in the department for promoting industry-academic partnerships. Moreover, recently, a new activity called Ultra-Coins has been initiated through the cooperation of alumni and alumnae of the department and the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research.

Just challenge!

While there are certainly people in the College of Information Science who possess impressive abilities and have achieved remarkable results, the curriculum is structured to ensure that even those who have never engaged in programming activities can learn from the fundamentals. Please do not be afraid to take on the challenge.