TAOYAKA PROGRAM for creating a flexible, enduring, peaceful society　Organization of Program for Leading Graduate Schools

Dr. Usui specializes in animal geography, which may sound unfamiliar to many people.

“In my case, I study the relationships between humans and animals from a geographical standpoint (New Animal Geography). In particular, I have been conducting my research at tourist sites and looking at the relationships between humans and animals by observing the way animals are managed and examining how tourists view animals,” she said. “One characteristic of New Animal Geography is to treat animals as an active agency. In other words, animals are not objects or resources to be simply utilized but they are individuals with their own will. Therefore, animal geographers are typically critical of anthropocentric thinking, and are interested in exploring how human society can advance to give moral consideration toward animals if we are to coexist with them.” she explained.

“When I was conducting my project, I encountered the question as to what reverse innovations should look like. There was no concrete set of approach to follow.”

Based on her experience, she is trying to incorporate materials that she feels Taoyaka students should know into her class.

“In addition to the basic interview method, I share a particular communication skill called, “meta-facilitation,” which facilitates learning and encourages behavioral changes in each individual through simple dialogues.” she said.
“This is the technique that my teacher introduced to me when I was a student, and I really want Taoyaka students to master this technique.”

“It was also a good opportunity to think about what reverse innovation really means,” she said and passed on the following words of advice to her students, in hope that they will find a meaningful experience through this program.

“I think many students are eager to make ‘regional contributions’ like me, but in reality, it rarely happens in a short time period, and they may feel a sense of powerlessness. Instead, I want them to think this way. What they can do and try to do is to look for “seeds” that are suited for the condition of a local community. What happens after that, whether they plant the seeds and grow them, is up to the local residents. This is, of course, a collaborative effort with local residents. With that in mind, you will find what you need to do in the community.”