2026-05-15 北海道大学
従来の土壌学研究の流れ（左側）から、より土壌の機能や土壌の健全性を意識した教育への転換（右側）の必要性を示す図
＜関連情報＞
- https://www.hokudai.ac.jp/news/2026/05/post-2285.html
- https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/nse2.70052
世界規模課題を解決するための大学レベルにおける土壌学はどうあるべきか The future of soil science education at the university level to meet societal demands at the global level
Yoshitaka Uchida, Maja Krzic, Jacqueline Hannam, Eric C. Brevik, Damien J. Field, Karen Vancampenhout, Feng Zhu, Ron Reuter, Sri R. Utami, Ikabongo Mukumbuta, Hassan El-Ramady
Natural Sciences Education Published: 29 April 2026
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/nse2.70052
Abstract
The number of soil science university programs has decreased in many countries around the world. There is an ongoing need for more effective ways to attract students to the discipline, train soil specialists, and support instructors to challenge the future format of soil science education. The objective of this paper was to explore possible future directions of soil science education at the university level over the next decade. We discussed the content of undergraduate soil science courses and programs, considering how soil scientists who teach at universities can improve soil science education while ensuring high-quality educational programs. Soil science education, which traditionally included classroom-based lectures and field trips, needs to be updated through the inclusion of more engaging learning activities, multimedia, and potentially even generative artificial intelligence, but with careful considerations regarding data privacy, accessibility, and equity. Soil science education should train soil scientists who can meet societal grand challenges by focusing soil science education on soil health and the diverse soil functions. Keeping and/or reviving traditional subdisciplines such as pedology is also important, as soil management is highly dependent on the spatial distribution of soil properties. Soil science educational reforms need to be carefully promoted while ensuring quality assurance systems for both soil scientists working in the discipline and soil educational systems. We hope that this paper provides points for informed discussion and guidance for soil science educators as we seek to improve education in our discipline going forward.
Plain Language Summary
Soils are essential for growing food, storing water, reducing climate change, and supporting plants and animals. Yet university soil science programs are declining in many countries, raising concerns about training enough experts to manage this vital resource. This paper examines how universities can strengthen soil science education to meet global challenges. We recommend emphasizing soil health (how well soil functions), the benefits soils provide, and practical field skills while maintaining core knowledge of how soils form and vary across landscapes. Modern approaches such as digital tools, virtual field trips, and problem-based learning can engage students, especially those from urban backgrounds. Collaboration across disciplines and strong quality standards are also important. Revitalizing soil science education is essential to prepare professionals who can address environmental and food-related challenges.
