ARW Class Notes: 2/17 - Day 1 of Winter Project Presentations

Two groups made their presentations today and I enjoyed both very much because they were mostly very well-researched, organized, and delivered with passion.

Nice work!

1. Insects - I can't remember the exact title, but one group presented the argument that people in developed countries such as Japan should eat more insects. The most shocking part of the presentation was the demo, where the audience was invited (forced?) to try four kinds of insects cooked in sweet soy sauce. The presentation argued that insects are very efficient to grow in terms of farm land and water or feed input, are nutritious with high protein and low fat, and can be safely and deliciously eaten by cooking them. The points were very easy to follow and well-illustrated with pictures and key words on the visual slide show. The speaking of each member was quite good, too! I liked how each member came forward and spoke with authority on their section's content.



My only suggestion in terms of content was perhaps to add photos of how insects can be cooked deliciously or processed so that the shape does not turn people away.

When I tasted the insects, I felt the locusts were the best. The silk worm larva had a peculiar taste to it and I think I'll avoid that in the future unless the taste can be changed with spices.


2. Better Support for Working Mothers in Japan (to stop the falling birth rate):
This was another well-researched presentation that explained how the Japanese government should improve laws and system to support working mothers in Japan and help them feel more comfortable with continuing their careers even after they have children. More flexibility for working hours should be made possible to take care of children or pick up / drop off children from schools or child care. Also, the quantity and convenience of child care centers should be improved.

I felt that both ideas were very important, and the difficulty is just how the government will work together with mothers, labor unions, and corporations to make those systems function effectively. Changes in the thinking of Japanese corporate leaders, especially in small companies, seem needed, possibly with incentives or fines by law.

Congratulations on finishing and good luck to the groups presenting on Friday!