Two researchers and educators, an archaeologist and a high school teacher based in Japan, are collaborating to make archaeology accessible and engaging for young students.
Since 2019, Corey Noxon, an assistant professor in the archaeology department at Ritsumeikan University, and Erin Noxon, a high school teacher at Sagano High School in Kyoto, have worked together on a program to connect young learners with archaeology. Corey’s research on Jomon period culture and history uses photogrammetry and other technologies to create 3D models of pottery and artifacts. These models, hosted online and freely accessible, allow students to explore and connect with the ancient past in tangible ways.
Sagano High School, a designated Super Science High School (SSH) by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT), provides a unique platform for this program. The 80 students in the school’s Science English curriculum engage directly with Corey’s AR and VR models, learning not only about archaeology but also how to create their own digital models. These skills can be then incorporated into their three-year lab course projects, culminating in poster sessions and presentations where students showcase their work. The program helps students develop a deeper appreciation for archaeology while equipping them with cutting-edge technological skills.
To evaluate the program’s impact, survey data is collected before and after each event, measuring changes in students’ attitudes toward archaeology and technology. This data demonstrates the program’s success and informs its ongoing development, ensuring it remains engaging and relevant. The collaboration exemplifies how cross-disciplinary efforts can make archaeology accessible and meaningful for young learners, inspiring the next generation to connect with history through innovative methods and technologies.