Host: The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers
Name : [in Japanese]
Date : November 16, 2024
Even university students in humanities fields increasingly face situations where knowledge of various scientific concepts, such as data science and programming, is required. This study explores how humanities students can practically learn scientific knowledge by building a one-person hovercraft. The construction process involved using inexpensive and readily available materials, such as inflatable rings, MDF boards, and a blower, to create a hovercraft capable of supporting a rider. To evaluate the effectiveness of the hovercraft, a series of experiments were conducted. These experiments measured the force required to move the hovercraft under different conditions: with and without a rider, and with the blower on and off. The results confirmed a significant reduction in frictional resistance when the hovercraft was activated, as indicated by the measured values. This hands-on project provided humanities students with the opportunity to understand physical principles, such as friction, through direct experimentation. Additionally, by scientifically evaluating the data, it reinforced a scientific perspective in their learning. Through this project, humanities students experienced the process of deepening their understanding of scientific inquiry.
