Student-led Field Study (SFS)

Student-led Field Study (SFS) is treated as a specialized training program in which students plan and carry out research on their own in Japan and abroad. As part of the preliminary training, students plan and design the purpose, target, matters, methods, etc. of the survey, and conduct the survey while staying in the field for approximately 5 to 12 days without the guidance of an instructor. SFS aims to deepen understanding of problems and issues in the field, as well as improve communication skills, independence and teamwork skills through on-site interview surveys. Furthermore, the advanced-level practical training aims for students to acquire essential understanding of issues, practical skills and advanced research techniques, based on on-site experience.

Participants

Students from the Department of Regional Development Studies

Training locations

• In Japan: Ishikawa, Ibaraki and Shimane

• Overseas: Korea, Thailand and north European countries

Note: The locations of SFS may vary depending on the academic year. Please check the syllabus of each academic year for details.

Timing of training

• In Japan: During semesters and long vacations (summer break, spring break)

• Overseas: During summer break (August to September), during spring break (February to March)

Training period

• In Japan: For four to five days

• Overseas: For two weeks

Costs

In principle, students are responsible for all costs required for participation in the training, such as travel expenses, accommodation fees, and overseas travel insurance premiums.

• In Japan: 30,000 to 100,000 yen

• Overseas: 150,000 yen

Note: Costs vary depending on the location of SFS. Please check the syllabus of each academic year for details.

Number of courses and credits students can take and earn, respectively

• Courses for students enrolled in AY 2025 and AY2028: “Student-Led Field Study A/B”: Two credits each

• Courses for students enrolled between AY 2021 and AY 2024: “Student-Led Field Study for Japanese Projects Ⅰ/Ⅱ” and “Student-Led Field Study for Global Projects Ⅰ/Ⅱ”: Two credits each

Details (for current students)

SFS courses are programs for second-year or above students.

Eligible students must complete “An Introduction to Project Studies” in advance to participate in the SFS for Global Projects, in principle. Students who take the course are required to go to the site. Please note that you will not be allowed to decline the on-site assignment for reasons such as taking an internship at a company or participating in another program.

Please check the syllabus of each academic year for the courses offered.

Each course has a maximum number of students. (Please check the syllabus.)

If the number of students who register for a course exceeds the maximum, selection (or lottery) will be conducted by each instructor in charge.

Experiences

• SFS in Noto (Ishikawa Prefecture)

• SFS in Ama-cho (Shimane Prefecture)

• SFS in South Korea (South Korea)