Education Fukui to launch Japan’s first dinosaur studies faculty

[thomas]

Fukui Prefectural University, renowned for its rich dinosaur fossil discoveries, is set to establish the nation's first faculty dedicated to dinosaur studies. The Faculty of Dinosaur Paleontology will open in April 2025, offering students hands-on excavation experience and access to advanced digital technologies to explore the prehistoric world. The university notes that approximately 80 per cent of Japan's discovered dinosaur fossils have been unearthed in the prefecture.

Yesterday, 19 incoming students participated in research activities at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum before the faculty's launch. They collected data by conducting 3-D scans of fossils and using virtual reality technology to reconstruct a dinosaur skeleton based on their findings.

Japanese university to open the nation's 1st faculty of dinosaur studies | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News

A university located in a central Japanese prefecture known for numerous dinosaur fossil finds is set to open the nation's first faculty dedicated to dinosaur studies.

www3.nhk.or.jp

The new faculty more heavily weights fieldwork at various excavation sites as it emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning. The faculty is discussing practical training at locations in the city of Katsuyama in Fukui prefecture, known for recent dinosaur fossil discoveries, as well as sites in Tokushima and Kumamoto prefectures. Fukui prefecture's unique geological features, such as the rugged coastal cliffs of Tojinbo and the scenic Mikata Five Lakes, will also serve as valuable locations for outdoor observation and research. The curriculum is also designed to equip students with essential skills in using digital tools and technologies. Using state-of-the-art equipment, including large computerized tomography (CT) scanners, students will learn to digitize fossils and landscapes of various shapes and sizes. They will gain experience in data storage, processing and editing and develop digital expertise by creating archives and reconstructing environments in virtual reality.

Paywall alert:

University in Fukui to launch Japan's first dedicated dinosaur program

Tie-up with renowned museum will offer fieldwork, access to cutting-edge technology

asia.nikkei.com

Dinosaur Research Institute

www.fpu.ac.jp

 

[Ukigumo]

Great news! More education is always positive!