Abstract:

The rapid advancement of generative AI has intensified global concern about job displacement and the evolving nature of essential skills. The World Economic Forum’s 2023 forecast emphasizes learning strategies, collaboration, creativity, and communication as crucial for future professionals. In response, higher education has increasingly adopted Project-Based Learning (PBL) to help students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

To meet these demands, the authors developed a language education course integrating PBL with Design Thinking, a framework that promotes empathy, creativity, and iterative problem-solving. The initial implementation explored how this model could enhance communication, collaboration, and critical thinking among foreign-language learners. Student reflections indicated that integrative thinking and communication skills were essential for future competitiveness. They emphasized the importance of analytical and problem-solving abilities beyond linguistic proficiency to address complex, authentic situations.

Building on these outcomes, the same curriculum was adapted for a Japanese Culture course at an institution in Tokyo. In this version, international students collaborated with local residents and city officials. Through interviews and fieldwork, they identified local issues and presented solutions to the city. This collaborative project not only deepened students’ understanding of Japanese society but also reinforced the value of civic engagement, intercultural competence, and applied language use in authentic settings.

The results demonstrate that combining Design Thinking with PBL supports the development of both language and 21st-century competencies—creativity, collaboration, and global awareness. Moreover, engaging students in authentic community-based projects helps bridge academic learning with practical experience, preparing them for success in an increasingly interconnected and AI-driven world.

This paper discusses the pedagogical outcomes, student perceptions, and broader implications of combining PBL and Design Thinking in language and cultural education. Moreover, engaging students in authentic community-based projects helps bridge academic learning with practical experience, preparing them for success in an increasingly interconnected and AI-driven world.

Keywords:

Project-Based Learning (PBL), Design Thinking, Collaborative community project.