Abstract
This study identifies some of the key requirements for a rural experimental learning program that involves a university and a rural community. An action research method was applied to a case study involving a learning program run by Kobe University and Sasayama city. Empirical data, consisting of meeting minutes, field reports, forum presentations, and feedback notes from students involved in the program, were collected from 2007 to 2011. The results highlight the optimal number of students per farmer in group activities, suitable host associations, the need for events that facilitate cross-regional participation, the need for a rotation of community hosts, and the need for an appointed program coordinator. Furthermore, to ensure the long-term continuation of such a program, it is essential that there is a dialogue between the university and rural community, which is facilitated by the program coordinator.
