Disaster preparedness: The role of spatial disaster learning using geospatial technology

Abstract

Preparedness for natural disasters is crucial for people living in high-risk areas along the Ring of Fire, such as people in Indonesia. Although Spatial Disaster Learning using Geospatial Technology (SDL-GeoTech) has been developed, its effectiveness in enhancing students’ preparedness remains unproven. This study examines the impact of SDL-GeoTech on junior high school students’ readiness using a quasi-experimental, time-series, single-group pre-post-test design. The research involved students from three schools: SMA 1 Grati Pasuruan (flood-prone), SMA 1 Puncu Kediri (volcanic eruption-prone), and SMA 3 Mataram Lombok (earthquake-prone). Data were collected through tests on knowledge, skills, and attitudes, followed by t-test analysis at a 0.05 significance level. The results of this study show SDL-GeoTech was significantly able to improve students’ preparedness, including their knowledge, skills, and attitudes. These findings highlight SDL-GeoTech as an innovative tool for disaster education, with the potential to enhance curricula and teaching strategies, especially in vulnerable areas.

Contribution: This research teaches students to use techno-geospatial learning through SDL-GeoTech, equipping those in the Ring of Fire region to be better prepared for potential natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. The proven analysis of SDL-GeoTech has shown that it enhances students’ knowledge, skills and attitude in preparedness in dealing with disasters.