抄録
The “High School Curriculum Guidelines (2018 Edition)” introduced new subjects that included the term “inquiry” in their titles; for example, “Comprehensive Learning Time” was renamed “Comprehensive Inquiry Time.” This modification reflects a stronger emphasis on incorporating inquiry into learning activities than before. Japan is currently experiencing rapid population aging and declining birth rates. According to a 2024 survey on high school students’ choice of science or liberal arts pathways, only 36.4% selected science-related fields, compared to 63.6% who chose liberal arts. Consequently, fostering science-oriented talent has become a pressing challenge. On June 6, 2025, the Japanese Society of Food Chemistry also held a high school student presentation program at its 31st Annual Meeting and Scientific Conference to promote inquiry-based learning in high schools and foster the next generation of research talent. Additionally, a survey was conducted among participating society members, high school students, and teachers. The survey consisted of 5-point scale items, multiple-choice questions, and open-ended responses. Approximately 97.8% of the society members, along with all responding high school students and teachers, stated that the project was meaningful. Overall, society members’ survey responses were positive. Observing high school students sincerely engaged in research and actively presenting their work was also a positive stimulus for society members. When asked what left the strongest impression during the conference, both high school students and teachers frequently cited the “Q&A sessions and advice from participants.” Furthermore, 85.4% of high school students reported that the program gave them an opportunity to reflect on their future paths and careers, while all high school teachers stated that it helped them consider methods for guiding students in inquiry-based activities. This initiative was regarded as highly meaningful by society members, high school students, and teachers, and its continuation was considered necessary.
