Encountering GIS (Geographic Information System) in the master's program led to research on "space." It is important to develop the ability to tackle issues with an interdisciplinary and global mindset while possessing specialized knowledge.
Participant Profile
Mizuki Kawabata
Research Fields: Application and education of GIS (Geographic Information System), economic geography, spatial socioeconomic researchGraduated from the Faculty of Economics, ÎçÒ¹¾ç³¡ in 1995. Completed the master's program at the Graduate School of Media and Governance, ÎçÒ¹¾ç³¡ in 1997. Completed the Doctoral Programs in Urban Planning at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2002. After serving as a project researcher and associate professor at the Center for Spatial Information Science, The University of Tokyo, she assumed her current position in 2012.
Mizuki Kawabata
Research Fields: Application and education of GIS (Geographic Information System), economic geography, spatial socioeconomic researchGraduated from the Faculty of Economics, ÎçÒ¹¾ç³¡ in 1995. Completed the master's program at the Graduate School of Media and Governance, ÎçÒ¹¾ç³¡ in 1997. Completed the Doctoral Programs in Urban Planning at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2002. After serving as a project researcher and associate professor at the Center for Spatial Information Science, The University of Tokyo, she assumed her current position in 2012.
Encountering My Research Theme and Its Appeal
I encountered GIS (Geographic Information System) during my master's program. I was fascinated by GIS, which allows for creating maps and integrating and analyzing various information using location data as a key. When I studied abroad in the United States, I joined a research group that conducted urban analysis using GIS. Since then, leveraging my experience studying economics as an undergraduate and urban planning in graduate school, I have been researching socioeconomic issues related to the "space" of cities and regions using GIS. Recently, I have been particularly interested in research related to overcoming the declining birthrate and aging population, as well as the application and education of GIS in the field of economics.
In recent years, GIS and spatial data have developed dramatically. In Japan, the Basic Act on the Advancement of Utilizing Geospatial Information was enacted in 2007, and the country is advancing the development of spatial data, even among developed nations. Many real-world urban and regional issues, such as earthquake reconstruction, new railway line development, and land use policies, are closely related to micro-spatial structures. By using the rapidly developing GIS and spatial data, it is becoming possible to analyze problems related to micro-spatial structures in detail and at a high level, which were extremely difficult to handle with conventional methods.
A Message to Students
The environment surrounding us is becoming increasingly diverse and globalized. In this context, I believe it is important to be able to tackle issues with an interdisciplinary and global mindset while possessing specialized knowledge. Studying abroad requires both energy and money, but if you have the chance, I strongly encourage you to take on the challenge. During your student years, cultivate the ability to identify problems on your own, research them, solve them, and present your findings. Physical and mental health are also important. Study hard and exercise well. After graduation, I believe your life will be enriched if you pursue a path that you love, are passionate about, and that suits your aptitude.
(Interview conducted in November 2012)
*Profile and position are as of the time of the interview.