Unlocking the potential within you ―― 学び続ける人のそばに

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Vol.551 2025.04.22

From “learning on your own” to “connecting with the world” ~ The 5th Global Network Initiatives (GNI) ~

Expanding possibilities through English × Self-Learning × Digital Literacy


The Kumon Method fosters the ability to “learn independently.” When this ability meets English, technology, and diverse values, children experience significant growth. On Saturday, March 22, 2025, the “5th Global Network Initiative (GNI)” was held at the Kumon Kyoiku Kaikan in Osaka as part of theKumon English Immersion Activities(KEIA). KEIA is an initiative designed to help children use English to feel connected to the world and broaden their perspectives. One of its representative programs is the “Kumon Global Immersion Camp(GIC).” This event brought together children who had participated in GIC in the past, international student leaders from various countries who supported the camp, and camp staff members to reunite and share their growth and dreams with one another. The goal was to inspire one another and deepen new learning and connections for the future. In the morning, a text programming workshop in English was held for children. In the afternoon, a variety of sessions were held where participants—from elementary school students to working adults—shared their personal growth stories and dreams, fostering cross-generational and cross-cultural exchange. The programming experience used IchigoJam, an educational computer designed for children. With support fromB-Inc, the developer of IchigoJam, participants engaged in learning that nurtured logical thinking and a spirit of self-learning while writing code in English.

INDEX

    Experiencing “Learning Through English” with Programming

    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催

    KEIA emphasizes not just “learning English,” but “learning through English.” As part of this, a text programming workshop using IchigoJam was held in the morning. IchigoJam is a compact educational computer developed by B-Inc, designed for children and using the beginner-friendly BASIC programming language. This workshop was attended by 19 past KEIA participants and 8 camp leaders. Participants challenged themselves by writing and running simple programs in English, such as the “River Game” and the “Number Guessing Game.” The Kumon Method emphasizes independent learning, and this aligns perfectly with programming, which requires logical thinking and repeated trial and error. It became a valuable opportunity for children to deepen their learning while using English as a tool.

    GNI Beyond Camp – An Afternoon of Sharing Growth

    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催

    In the afternoon GNI program, 39 elementary school GIC participants, 9 OBOGs (alumni university students), 9 camp leaders, and 4 staff members gathered. Under the theme of “Past, Present, and Future,” the following sessions were held:

    Opening Speech by Mr. Enoki (Global Network Team Leader)

    Mr. Enoki gave a warm message: “It’s been eight months since the camp. Today is a special day. Let’s enjoy the activities and support one another.”

    Ice Breaking: Networking Island

    Participants from different GIC years interacted by asking each other questions about their group names, activities at the time, and their current selves. Even those meeting for the first time quickly found common ground and connected with one another.

    Dear Future Me – From Myself Back Then, To Myself Now

    Elementary school students gave presentations, sharing their dreams such as “I want to work harder at English” and “I want to go to America.”
    •A 3rd-grade boy began studying English more seriously after GIC. He shared his dream of visiting America to watch baseball games.
    •A 4th-grade girl talked about how she started listening to speeches by former President Trump, developed a strong interest in American culture and English, and is continuing to expose herself to English in her daily life.

    After the presentations, university student and older OBOGs shared warm messages such as “That’s a wonderful dream!” and “We’re cheering you on!”—a moment that highlighted the heartwarming connections across generations.

    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催

    My Journey – Learning from the Path of Growth

    Early GIC members took the stage to share the paths they’ve walked since their participation.
    •Presenter 1 (University Student)
    Inspired by GIC, she became more interested in English, took EIKEN and IELTS, and visited the Philippines, Australia, and other countries. She is currently studying to become a medical professional.
    •Presenter 2 (University Graduate)
    After traveling the world, he was accepted into an aviation college to become a pilot. His dream is to “connect the world through humorous in-flight announcements.”

    These diverse journeys and courageous challenges were deeply inspiring for all participants.

    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催

    Discussions – A Place to Talk About Dreams and Challenges

    In group discussions, participants exchanged thoughts on topics such as:
    •Water and natural resources
    •Things they did after GIC
    •What they want to try next—either on their own or together

    Dear Future Me (II) – To My Future Self

    Participants wrote postcards to their future selves about what they want to achieve. As they imagined how they might look back on this day in a few years, each participant quietly and thoughtfully took a step toward the future.

    GNT Family Got Talent & Networking Time

    The event wrapped up with a talent show, where participants of all ages showcased their unique talents. Children and OBOGs performed dances, comedy routines, and more, filling the venue with smiles and applause. Their confident presentations of their strengths touched the hearts of all attendees and reminded everyone of the joy of taking on challenges. Afterward, everyone transitioned into a relaxed networking time over light refreshments. Joyful voices echoed as old friends reunited, new connections were formed, and contact information was exchanged along with promises to meet again in the future. These cross-generational, cross-cultural, and cross-role networks are invaluable assets that have been nurtured through GNT activities over the years. The environment in which participants can continue building relationships, stay connected, and inspire one another’s growth holds a value far beyond monetary worth. Having a place like this—a space to reconnect, reflect, and look forward—becomes a powerful source of motivation for each participant as they take their next step into the future. One network. Many journeys.

    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催
    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催

    Learning that Connects and Lights the Way to the Future

    第5回 Global Network Initiatives」(GNI)開催

    Through the 5th Global Network Initiative, children were able to reaffirm their abilities to “learn in English,” “support one another,” and “think for themselves and take on challenges.” The foundational academic skills cultivated through the Kumon Method serve as the base for these future-oriented challenges. As children’s dreams and aspirations continue to grow, Kumon will continue to gently support their journeys forward.

    Related Links
    KUMON English Immersion Activities (KEIA)
    KUMON English Immersion Activities (KEIA)

    Global Immersion Camp (GIC) とは
    What is the Global Immersion Camp (GIC)?

    Global Immersion Camp (GIC) 2024
    Global Immersion Camp (GIC) 2024 Final Report

    IchigoJam
    Children’s computer IchigoJam – First programming computer

    Past Article Link Format Rule
    The 1st Global Network Initiatives (GNI)

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