Symposium Report: “Practices and Possibilities of International Collaborative Learning” (Thursday,January 29)

On January 29, 2026, Ibaraki University hosted the symposium “Practices and Possibilities of International Collaborative Learning” at the Mito Campus Library Hall, in collaboration with Utsunomiya University. The event was conducted in a hybrid format, with 70 participants—20 on-site and 50 online—including faculty members, students, and representatives from local companies and organizations.

This symposium was organized to explore how international collaborative learning can be further developed through partnerships with local communities. In the first half, both universities presented their ongoing initiatives in international collaborative learning. Utsunomiya University introduced its course “Intercultural Understanding B,” in which international and domestic students work together to investigate local issues related to globalization and present their findings. Ibaraki University reported on its project‑based course “Business Communication,” conducted in collaboration with local companies. The presentation highlighted how students engage directly with real corporate challenges through company visits, interviews, surveys, data analysis, and proposal development, deepening their learning through hands‑on experience. Students from both universities also shared reflections on their learning—such as insights gained through intercultural teamwork, strategies for effective communication, and broadened perspectives developed through dialogue with companies.

In the latter half of the symposium, a panel discussion brought together faculty members, students, and company representatives. The discussion focused on the educational significance of international collaborative learning, the importance of strengthening community partnerships, and future directions for further development. The combination of students’ candid reflections and the practical viewpoints of participating companies provided a compelling picture of the potential for universities and local communities to co‑create meaningful learning opportunities.

Feedback collected from participants included many positive comments. Several noted that they “gained a deeper understanding of the significance of international collaborative learning” and that it was valuable to “compare and learn from the approaches of both Ibaraki University and Utsunomiya University.” Others emphasized the value of “hearing honest views from students and companies” and appreciated the “clear examples and student reflections that made the initiatives easy to visualize.” Additional comments highlighted the promise of community engagement, such as “excellent collaboration between regional universities and local industries,” and expressed interest in how universities and local communities can continue working together.

Overall, the symposium provided a meaningful opportunity to reaffirm that international collaborative learning is evolving beyond traditional intercultural exchange. Through engagement with local issues and cooperation with regional companies, students are developing practical skills and becoming more active participants in society. At a time when stronger collaboration between universities and local communities is increasingly essential, the symposium highlighted the significant potential of such partnerships for future human resource development.