KeMCo StudI/O

In this step, we discuss KeMCo StudI/O. At the KeMCo StudI/O, we design stakeholder-driven museum experiences in the digital age.

Through continuous and multifaceted collaboration with the various stakeholders – such as faculty, administrators, students, visitors, as well as partners and collaborating institutions – KeMCo not only amplifies diverse voices but also allows the university museum to stay relevant and responsive to the diverse perspectives and needs of its community.

To further this mission, the KeMCo StudI/O was established as an in-house makerspace (creative studio), aimed at facilitating collaborative projects that bring together the different stakeholder groups. The studio, equipped with cutting-edge fabrication tools, stands out as a unique open avenue for the stakeholders and the greater community, demystifying the connection between physical and digital (virtual) assets. The I/O in ‘StudI/O’ captures the essence of ‘input’ (I) and ‘output’ (O). Here, ‘input’ refers to promoting the transformation of Keio’s cultural assets into digital objects and their introduction into digital (virtual) spaces.‘Output’ encompasses the broader sharing and utility of digitized information within the university and beyond.

^{The centerpiece of KeMCo StudI/O is an artwork named FFIGURATI #314, an emblematic creation by Keio alumni and artist Enrico Isamu Oyama.}

Here, faculty can integrate digital tools into their pedagogy, and offer an interactive experience within the community. Administrators ensure the space’s operational efficiency, ensuring resources are aptly utilized. Students are not just passive recipients but also collaborators, blending their newfound knowledge with innovative techniques. Visitors, traditionally seen as mere observers, connect the space to larger community dialogues and insights. Partners and collaborating institutions bring forth their unique assets and resources, further magnifying the studio’s scope and impact.

Inside akichi, KeMCo StudI/O ensures that every stakeholder becomes an active participant which goes beyond conventional exhibitions. Next, let’s dive into the practical applications of the KeMCo StudI/O in two unique settings: 1) Integrating Digitization with Object-based Learning Practices, and 2) Multifaceted Stakeholder Collaboration in Hands-on Workshops. We’ll take a closer look at how each stakeholder group can utilize this space to their advantage.

Integrating digitization with Object-based Learning practices

With faculty guidance through lectures, students– the primary audience – engage with both physical and digital objects, exploring diverse perspectives through Object-based Learning practices where they will also get hands-on experience with digitization techniques. Through a blend of theoretical insights and practical application(s), students gain unique insights into historical context, usage, and significance. Digitization training equips them with the skills to make these resources accessible to a broader audience.

While the faculty focus on content delivery, administrators ensure the efficient organization and management of these lectures. The participation of visitors, including the general public, adds a layer of diversity to these discussions by introducing different viewpoints. Also, partners and collaborating institutions enhance the lectures by offering specialized expertise, resources, or even guest lecturers, ensuring that every lecture becomes a holistic learning experience.

Role of stakeholders

• Faculty: experts who share knowledge and drive academic engagement.
• Administrators: coordinate and manage lectures, ensuring smooth execution.
• Students: engage in dialogue, bringing fresh perspectives to topics.
• Visitors: introduce diverse viewpoints and queries, enhancing the museum’s educational offerings.
• Partners and collaborating institutions: provide external expertise and resources for specialized lectures.

Multifaceted stakeholder collaboration in hands-on workshops

In the context of a university museum, conducting a workshop series is a dynamic process that actively involves a variety of stakeholders, each bringing a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table. The role of the faculty is pivotal, as they lead these workshops, where they do not just disseminate information, but also create an interactive and stimulating environment for learning. Administrators play a crucial behind-the-scenes role in handling the logistics and scheduling to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Students, integral to the university’s fabric, actively participate by voicing their ideas and opinions, often leading discussions and activities. Also, the visitors at KeMCo, which can include the general public, provide a wealth of varying perspectives. Their engagement is essential as it brings in viewpoints from outside the academic realm, ensuring that the workshops are not just theoretical but have real-world relevance. Lastly, partners and collaborating institutions infuse the workshops with specialized skills and resources. They bring in experts from different fields, provide tools or materials, or even offer spaces where workshops can be conducted.

Role of stakeholders

• Faculty: lead workshops, drawing from academic expertise.
• Administrators: ensure logistics and scheduling for success.
• Students: contribute ideas, often participating actively and steering the direction of discussions.
• Visitors: bring forth reflections, providing diverse experiences and perspectives.
• Partners and collaborating institutions: offer specialized knowledge, tools, and resources that enrich the quality and depth of the workshops.