Surviving Women’s Learning Experiences From the Tsunami in Aceh

Abstract

This study investigated surviving women’s learning experiences from the 2004 tsunami in Aceh. Women were the majority of casualties and the most vulnerable after the tsunami. Almost a decade later, we used a conceptual framework of experiential learning, critical reflection, and transformative learning to understand the surviving women’s ways of learning after the disaster. This paper highlights a qualitative study from a larger mixed methods study. Of the larger study’s 450 survey respondents, we interviewed 103 participants using a semi-structured interview protocol for 1 to 1.5 hr. From those participants, this paper highlights 13 women who articulated significant learning during their experience. The findings indicate the women learnt through reflection, talking, and feelings. Furthermore, their learning and reflection on life’s experiences enabled them to strike a balance and lead a better life. This study highlights that learning experiences in a critical life event can eventually result in a person’s changed behavior, attitudes, knowledge, beliefs, or skills.