- Contemporary issues in interpersonal assistance: Multidisciplinary collaboration as it expands and deepens
- [Modern Issues in Interpersonal Assistance]
The process from application to enrollment - Risk Management for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation
: Connecting the gap between saving and helping - [Risk Management for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation]
How to Apply - About Kyo College Membership
- Contact Information
Contemporary issues in interpersonal assistance: Multidisciplinary collaboration as it expands and deepens
You can download the flyer here.
Event information flyer
Contemporary issues in interpersonal assistance: Multidisciplinary collaboration in the context of broadening and deepening
[PDF]
Applications for this course have closed.
Program Overview
It seems that society is becoming increasingly difficult to live in. We must also prepare for a variety of disasters. In response to these challenges in modern society, various practices are being developed to address social issues that will bring about human peace and happiness. Fields traditionally divided into fields such as medicine, nursing, education, psychology, welfare, and justice are now calling for multidisciplinary collaboration and cooperation. Even in the academic field, we are venturing into new areas. By integrating these fields into “interpersonal assistance,” we will learn from frontline knowledge that explores human potential. This is the development of knowledge at the intersection of practice, academia, and clinical practice. It will broaden the horizons of professionals. This is the final year of this three-year program. As a culmination, we will offer further learning to those who have taken the course so far. We welcome working adults who continue to learn.
Event Overview
| Eligibility | ●Teachers, social workers, mental health and welfare workers, clinical psychologists, licensed psychologists, doctors, public health nurses, nurses, registered dietitians, childcare workers, judicial officials, and other people in interpersonal support positions. ●Corporate personnel and general affairs staff involved in human services. ●Volunteer coordinators and other people active in NPOs and NGOs . ●University faculty and staff involved in human resource development in these fields. |
| How to participate | On-demand lectures [9 sessions total] Viewing period: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 – Wednesday, December 31, 2025 In-person seminars [1 session total] Capacity: First 30 people Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025, 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM Location: Campus Plaza Kyoto, 2nd floor hall Note: Only on-demand lecture participants can participate in the seminars. |
| Tuition | ●On-demand lectures (set of 9) 9,000 yen (tax included) ●Seminars (face-to-face) 1,000 yen (tax included) |
Lecture content
On-demand lectures
| Theme: Leaving No One Behind: Disaster Preparedness for Human Services Professionals Lecturer: Akiko Kurotaki (Associate Professor, Faculty of Nursing, Kyoto Tachibana University) |
| Japan is a disaster-prone country, and unfortunately, in recent years, disasters have occurred before we can forget about them. People working in the human services profession are often required to protect those they serve while also maintaining their own safety during disasters. I would like to share with you how to prepare for disasters on a daily basis in order to ensure everyone’s safety in the event of a disaster. |
| Theme: Post-Adoption Support and Life Story Work Lecturer: Shoko Tokunaga (Visiting Researcher, Ritsumeikan University and Waseda University; Director of Therapeutic Life Story Work Japan) |
| The “Special Adoption System” established in 1987 creates approximately 500 adoptive families each year. While this system is operated with the goal of promoting the welfare of children, this course explains post-adoption support, which is sometimes overlooked. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the backgrounds of birth parents and learn about “life story work” as a form of support for children. |
| Theme: What is support for carers facing conflicts? – Considering the nature of support that leads to a caring society – Speaker: Mao Saito (Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, Ritsumeikan University) |
| While legislation for young carers is progressing, the system to support diverse carers of all generations is still insufficient. In this lecture, we will consider the theme of carer support as a form of interpersonal assistance that contributes to a new social concept from the perspective of care – a caring society. |
| Theme: What is an Active Bystander? – When witnessing discrimination or harassment – Speaker: Mr. Kai Nishii (Specially Appointed Associate Professor, Graduate School of Social Design, Rikkyo University) |
| It is said that it is difficult for victims to resist discrimination and harassment, making it important for a third party to intervene. There is much discussion overseas about how to intervene, but what about in Japan? We will explore practices that make use of local knowledge. |
| Theme: Connecting and Discontinuing Support from Preconception to Postpartum Care: Understanding the Reality of the Field Lecturer: Keiko Nagasaka (Associate Professor, Faculty of Nursing, Kyoto Tachibana University) |
| Preconception care is healthcare that begins before pregnancy to support the health of yourself and the next generation. From before birth to after birth, we look at the connections and gaps in care from the field, and explore challenges and hints. |
| Theme: Mental and physical health and interpersonal support through food from a nutritional perspective Lecturer: Yumiko Ido (Professor, Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Home Economics, Kyoto Women’s University) |
| Mental and physical health are important issues, and awareness of mental illness has been growing in recent years. Diet is the foundation of lifestyle habits and is related to various illnesses. In this lecture, we will discuss the impact of “food” on mental and physical health from a nutritional perspective, and how to apply this knowledge to interpersonal assistance. |
| Theme: “Therapeutic Justice” Initiatives in Criminal Trials – Frontline Case Reports – Speaker: Yuko Nishitani (Attorney-at-Law, Osaka Bar Association, Liberty General Law Office) |
| We will report on on-site efforts regarding “therapeutic justice,” which aims to resolve problems by connecting criminal trials with medical, psychological, and welfare services, and will cover recent cases of developmental disorders (ASD/ADHD), intellectual disabilities, borderline intelligence, and long-term drug-related cases. |
| Theme: Multicultural Counseling and Microaggressions II – Focusing on the Latest Survey and Resistance of the Majority – Speaker: Shunsuke Maruichi (Director of the Korean Counseling & Community Center in Japan, Director of Hot House, Welfare Service for People with Disabilities, Mental Health Social Worker and Certified Psychologist) Speaker: Kisa Park (Counselor at the Korean Counseling & Community Center in Japan, Clinical Psychologist and Certified Psychologist) |
| Continuing from last year, we will explore the challenges and possibilities of interpersonal assistance in relationships involving people of different backgrounds and power imbalances. We will delve deeper into the concept of microaggressions, visualize their actual state based on the latest research in Japan, and consider the confusion and resistance felt by the majority. |
| Theme: Interpersonal Assistance to Support Behavioral QOL Enhancement Lecturer: Naoki Nakashika (Professor, College of Comprehensive Psychology, Ritsumeikan University) |
| This article will introduce the concept of “behavioral QOL,” which sees the mission of interpersonal assistance as “improving the QOL of individuals,” in relation to last year’s “Functional Linkage of Interpersonal Assistance.” This concept will enable us to think about interpersonal assistance as a more concrete task and try it out. |
exercises
| Theme: Contemporary Issues in Interpersonal Assistance Lecturers: Coordinator Tadashi Nakamura (Chair of the University Consortium Kyoto Recurrent Education Planning Committee and Specially Appointed Professor, College of Social Sciences, Ritsumeikan University) and other program instructors . *Please note that some instructors may not be able to attend. |
| The challenges of interpersonal assistance are constantly changing. In pursuit of human happiness, a wealth of practices have been developed to address the challenges people face. This course was designed to examine these practices not from a specific field or theory perspective, but from a social reality perspective. The seminar aims to foster intellectual exchange with people from various professions, deepening our thinking through dialogue with participating instructors. We will exchange opinions on the types of specialized and clinical knowledge needed to address the needs of individuals facing modern interpersonal assistance. We will also identify the societal challenges that these needs represent. Over drinks and snacks, this is a forum for free discussion in small groups with the program’s instructors. We will explore new approaches to support, transcending the boundaries of fields and professions, while sharing thoughts and questions felt in the field. |
Flow from application to enrollment
| On-demand lecture application period | Viewing period |
|---|---|
| September 1st (Monday) – December 23rd (Tuesday) , 2025 | October 1st (Wednesday) – December 31st (Wednesday) , 2025 |
STEP 1
Click the “Apply” button, enter the required information, and then apply.
Applications for this course have closed.
Clicking the “Apply” button will take you to the application reception site “Peatix,” where you can apply from there.
To apply, you will need to register a Peatix account (free of charge). Registration is easy, with just a display name (nickname, initials, etc.), email address, and a password of your choice.
important
To prevent problems such as non-delivery of emails, please do not use a mobile carrier email address (e.g. @docomo.ne.jp, @softbank.ne.jp, @i.softbank.jp, @au.com, @ezweb.ne.jp, etc.) when registering.
STEP 2
We will provide instructions on how to watch the course to those whose tuition fees have been confirmed.
STEP 3
Please complete viewing of each lecture within the viewing period.
important
If payment procedures are not completed by the deadline, we will assume that you have no intention of participating and your application will be invalid. Please note that tuition fees will not be refunded
except in the case of cancellation of the course .
Due to unforeseen circumstances, courses may be postponed, canceled, or the content may be changed.
In the event of any changes, you will be notified in the “Important Notices” section of the University Consortium Kyoto website and via the email address you provided when applying.
Risk Management for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation
: Connecting the gap between saving and helping
You can download the flyer here.
Event information flyer
Risk Management for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation: Connecting the gap between saving and helping others
[PDF]
Applications for this course have closed.
The phrase “disaster-prone era” is now commonly seen. Some articles argue that Japan is a “disaster archipelago” and emphasize the need to learn from the challenges and lessons of past disasters. While disasters are often discussed in terms of natural or man-made disasters, philosopher Takeshi Umehara proposed the concept of “civilization disasters” shortly after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, arguing that we need to look to the future with new values.
This course aims to equip participants with the ideas, knowledge, and mindset to not only prevent disasters but also to develop ideas for creating a “disaster-reducing” society that reduces damage when disasters occur. Let’s learn and deepen our wisdom to help ourselves and others at work, at home, and while traveling.
Event Overview
| Eligibility |
We recommend this course to working adults (regardless of industry, occupation, or specialized knowledge), including company employees, civil servants, university faculty and staff, and volunteer staff. *Regular students of member schools of the University Consortium Kyoto (excluding graduate school and correspondence course students) and students taking all courses at the Open University of Japan Kyoto Learning Center |
| How to participate |
|
| Tuition |
[Lectures] ●Set of 8 sessions: 8,000 yen (tax included) *1 session: 1,000 yen (tax included) [Options] “Disaster Prevention Walking Workshop”: 1,000 yen (tax included) *Free for students |
| Capacity |
In-person attendance: 38 people Online attendance: 100 people Option (Disaster Prevention Walking Workshop): 20 people |
Lecture content
Total of 8 lectures / 1 optional “Disaster Prevention Walking Workshop”
Coordinator: Hironori Yamaguchi (Professor, Institute for the Promotion of General Education, Ritsumeikan University)
[First half program]
|
First session: September 27 (Sat) 13:30-15:00 Theme: Inclusive Disaster Prevention Title: Disaster prevention that leaves no one behind Lecturer: Shigeo Tachiki (Professor, Faculty of Sociology, Doshisha University) |
| “Inclusive disaster prevention,” which does not leave behind socially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and people with disabilities who tend to suffer the most damage during disasters, is an important perspective for realizing a society in which no one is left behind. Learn about efforts to connect welfare and disaster prevention from practical examples in Beppu City. |
|
2nd session: September 27th (Sat) 15:15-16:45 Theme: Choice of Action Title: What would you do? Lecturer: Hironori Yamaguchi (Professor, Institute for the Promotion of General Education, Ritsumeikan University) |
| Participants will experience a card game called “Crossroads,” which simulates the dilemmas of disaster response. They will then set up their own disaster situations and, through exercises in which they will ask themselves “yes” or “no” questions about their actions, will gain an opportunity to experience the diversity and importance of making decisions about problems that have no right answer. |
|
3rd session Date and time: Saturday, October 25th, 13:30-15:00 Theme: Evacuation behavior Title: “Protecting each other’s lives” Evacuation Lecturer: Yoko Matsuda (Associate Professor, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University) |
| This lecture is based on the premise that “we cannot protect our own lives by ourselves,” and considers how evacuation should be based on mutual support. Rather than questioning individual responsibility, students will deepen their understanding of evacuation preparations based on mutual assistance. |
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4th session Date and time: 10/25 (Sat) 15:15-16:45 Theme: Self-reliant disaster prevention Title: “Facing disaster prevention” possible only because of local residents Lecturer: Mr. Ota Oki (Disaster Prevention Terakoya Kyoto Representative) |
| Based on the experience of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, this program introduces ongoing disaster prevention awareness activities based on the awareness that “communities are the front lines of disaster response.” It also focuses on the efforts being made to help each resident see disasters as their own problem. |
[Optional] Voluntary participation *Application required separately from lecture
|
Date and time: Saturday, November 29th, 10:00-11:30 “Disaster Prevention Town Walk Workshop” Guide: Kim Do-won (Associate Professor, College of Science and Engineering, Ritsumeikan University) |
| We will explore the Pontocho area, known as one of Kyoto’s most historic landscapes, from the perspective of cultural heritage disaster prevention. |
[Second half program]
|
5th session Date and time: November 29th (Sat) 13:30-15:00 Theme: Resilience Title: Learning from historical townscapes and preparing Lecturer: Kim Do-won (Associate Professor, College of Science and Engineering, Ritsumeikan University) |
| This course will explore the issue of regional design, combining traditional wisdom with modern disaster prevention technology to protect historical cities and cultural landscapes from natural disasters. Based on the latest research findings, it will present a perspective on how to balance cultural inheritance with disaster prevention. |
|
6th session: November 29th (Sat) 15:15-16:45 Theme: Information Systems Title: Information presentation design that stimulates personal awareness Lecturer: Tomoko Izumi (Professor, College of Information Science and Engineering, Ritsumeikan University) |
| Kyoto, a city visited by many tourists, is working to create a system for safe evacuation guidance in anticipation of the large number of people who will be unable to return home in the event of a large-scale disaster. We will also introduce ideas for disseminating information to help people see disasters as something that affects them personally. |
|
7th session Date and time: December 13th (Sat) 13:30-15:00 Theme: BCP (Business Continuity Plan) Title: Perspectives on creating a plan (LCP) to protect lives, lives, and livelihoods Lecturer: Kenji Isayama (Meiji University of International Medicine, Disaster Prevention and Emergency Rescue Research Institute / Professor, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences) |
| This course will cover the basic concepts and practical aspects of business continuity planning (BCP), which is used not only in emergencies such as disasters and infectious diseases but also to protect daily life in peacetime. Students will also consider the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration in the fields of medical care, nursing care, and welfare, as well as community connections. |
|
8th session Date and time: December 13th (Sat) 15:15-16:45 Theme: Volunteer Title: Group Dynamics of Relays in Disaster Areas Speaker: Kimihide Atsumi (Professor, Graduate School of Human Sciences, Osaka University) |
| This program will examine the practice of “disaster area relays,” in which former disaster victims support other disaster-stricken areas, and focus on the power of inter-regional connections and how they work. It will also look back at research findings and consider how the experience of support can be passed on to the next generation. |
How to apply
Click the “Apply” button, enter the required information, and then apply.
Applications for this course have closed.
Clicking the “Apply” button will take you to the application reception site “Peatix,” where you can apply from there.
To apply, you will need to register a Peatix account (free of charge). Registration is easy, with just a display name (nickname, initials, etc.), email address, and a password of your choice.
important
To prevent problems such as non-delivery of emails, please do not use a mobile carrier email address (e.g. @docomo.ne.jp, @softbank.ne.jp, @i.softbank.jp, @au.com, @ezweb.ne.jp, etc.) when registering.
About Kyo College Membership
If you requested one at the time of application, we will issue a Kyo College membership card (membership fee: free) after we confirm your tuition payment. As a benefit of being a Kyo College member, you will be able to use the libraries of each university and junior college listed in the Kyo College Recruitment Guide (please follow the rules and instructions of each library).
Library Common Reading System
*It may take some time to issue the membership card.
Contact Information
The Consortium of Universities, a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Kyoto
College (Recurrent Education Program) 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (excluding Sundays and Mondays)
Campus Plaza Kyoto 1F, Nishinotoin-dori Shiokoji-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8216
TEL: 075-353-9140 FAX: 075-353-9121
E-mail: miyakare■consortium.or.jp (Please replace ■ with @ before sending)
*Inquiries accepted: Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (excluding the New Year holidays)
