Effect of using simulation strategy on preparatory school students' earthquakes preparedness

Abstract

Background: Earthquake disaster preparedness in schools is an effective, adaptable, and long-lasting approach to disseminating disaster education. Undoubtedly, systematic, quantifiable, and effective measures to increase the capacity of school community members will lessen the impact of catastrophe risk in schools. Aim: To evaluate the effect of using a simulation strategy on preparatory school students' earthquake preparedness. Design: A quasi-experimental design pre-and post-tests were utilized. Setting: The study was carried out at El-Shaheed Ahmed Bahaget Preparatory School in Damanhour. Sample: A multi-stage stratified sample consists of 60 preparatory students. Data collection tools: The student's personal data questionnaire, preparatory school students' knowledge regarding preparedness for earthquakes, and preparatory school students' skills during and after the earthquake were implemented. Results: There was a highly significant improvement in preparatory school students' knowledge regarding earthquakes in the post-simulation than pre-simulation. Moreover, there was a significant improvement in preparatory school students' preparedness for earthquakes in the post-simulation than pre-simulation. Conclusion: Using the simulation strategy improved preparatory school students' earthquake preparedness. Recommendations: All children of different ages should be included in disaster preparedness programs. Innovative methods should be widely used to educate children about disasters.