Earthquake Disaster Prevention Learning Approach in Japan Combining Fieldwork Survey Learning and Evacuation Drill Training

Abstract

There has been increasing awareness on disaster prevention in Japan. The aim of this research is to ascertain whether learning activities on earthquake disasters consisting of pre-incident fieldwork survey learning and evacuation drill training, can be converted to disaster preparedness awareness. Learners study the situation and danger in a particular region through fieldwork. Subsequently, they review the findings and conduct retrospective learning assuming a disaster has occurred. Based on this assumption, they execute evacuation drills simulating a disaster outdoors. We designed a series of similar learning activities and developed learning support systems for tablet devices. Conducting classes at a high school, we analyzed changes in learners’ consciousness. Learners participated with interest and studied disaster prevention while simulating disasters with the support of the system. Results of the subjective survey revealed that certain effects were recognized during disaster preparedness, developing learners’ self-efficacy in protecting themselves in the event of a disaster.