Seminar on Ecological Resources

Ecological resources exist alongside humans and, if managed properly, can be semi-permanently sustainable (renewable). For example, in the case of
forests, these resources include fuel, nuts and berries, edible wild plants, mushrooms, special-purpose trees, medicinal plants, and resins. By learning
about Shinshū's ecological resources, students will come into contact with the region's rich nature, its history and culture, and its people's ways of life.
In this class, we will explore the history, current reality, and future of the use and management of various ecological resources, considering the
uniqueness and complexity of each region of Shinshū. Each student will select and report on an ecological resource of interest using relevant literature
and other materials. Our research methods include referencing various types of literature and the Internet, as well as interviewing relevant people
(Depending on the occasion, it is also OK to interview by email or phone). Q&A sessions will be held for each student’s report, and all students are
encouraged to contribute to these sessions. Additionally, all students will have the opportunity to attend an off-campus field trip during the seminar
course.

Shinshū, natural environment, ecological resource, local culture, sustainable use, environmental mindset, problem discovery, problem-solving, fieldwork

Sessions 1 to 3 will comprise an orientation to the subject. The instructor in charge will also introduce examples of ecological resources in tropical Asia from their
particular field of interest (e.g., sago palm, agarwood).
Lectures are followed by sessions in which students will present their reports. Note that the case examples of ecological resources are limited to resources found in
Nagano Prefecture.
1. Introduction
2. What are ecological resources? (instructor explanation)
3. Ecological resources in tropical Asia (instructor explanation)
4. Preparing and researching individual (or group) topics and case studies
5–14. Individual (or group) presentations and Q&A sessions (an on-site trip will take place near campus during one of these sessions)
15. Preparing reports; class questionnaire
Through this class, students will develop their identities as Shinshu University students by learning about and experiencing the ecological resources in the region.

Syllabus (Japanese site only)