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1. What prompted you decide to participate in the "JSPS Science Dialogue" program?
When I first read about the “Science Dialogue Program” initiated by JSPS, I made by mind to participate in the program. The reason behind this was to share my enthusiasm for science with a wider audience like high school students and to help them to feel more confident about pursuing career in medical sciences.
2. To what did you give greatest attention in preparing and giving the lecture?
Initially I was worried while preparing the lecture materials, since I did not have any idea about the level of knowledge of the students. But with great advice from my supervisor (host), I tried to keep my slides very basic making them as much visual as possible at the same time not to include too many words or sentences in the slides. I included a concise explanation of my research work so that students would enjoy the content of the lecture.
3. Did you find it difficult to give a lecture in English to Japanese students? Could you give some advice to future lecturers on how to facilitate communication with Japanese students?
I did have some concerns regarding the level of understanding that the students would have with my lecture, especially the more difficult scientific concepts. However, my professor assisted in summarizing my talks in Japanese to ensure that the students could get into the topics as much as possible. It would be better to use English in a very simple and easy way. If you are good at gestures, that may be a fun in the classroom.
4. Could you give your impression with regard to participating in this program?
Although previously I have visited a Japanese elementary school I have never been in a Japanese high school. I was particularly happy to be so warmly welcomed by both the teacher and the students of the school. It was indeed a rewarding and enjoyable experience for me.
5. Was it meaningful in terms of your fellowship activities?
Yes, definitely. Through this program, I had the opportunity to review my research area as well as I have learned how to explain this in a clear and simple way. Moreover, I might have played a role in promoting scientific advancement in Japan.
6. In what ways do you think the students benefited from the program?
I hope this program gave them a chance to see the kind of work they can do as a scientist. It will also build up a positive impression among them about higher education in a foreign country. Most importantly, most of the students got aware about the importance of learning English participating in this program.
7. Could you give some overall advice or comments to future participants in the program?
All future participants should keep in their mind that they are going to inspire the next generation of scientists through this program. Giving lectures to high school students requires special preparation and different approach. Therefore, emphasize should be given on preparing and giving the lectures in the simplest and easiest way of presentation, which are up to their level.
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