Status: this preprint was under review for the journal NHESS. A revision for further review has not been submitted.
Teaching disaster preparedness via a mobile device: a study of Auckland Civil Defence's Smartphone Application
O. Kulemeka
Abstract. This content analysis study examined whether a disaster preparedness education smartphone application created by a New Zealand city matches what experts say are effective ways of teaching disaster preparedness and teaching via an app. The app was assessed to ascertain if it excelled as a platform for learning, communicated effectively, addressed factors that can hinder people from preparing, and provided information for special needs populations. Results show that the app addressed most factors that hinder preparedness, provided information for some special needs populations, excelled as a platform for learning, and communicated effectively. The app's weaknesses include the fact that it lacked targeted information for low-income residents. The findings provide insight on how organizations can effectively use apps to teach disaster preparedness.
The author passed away before the publication of this discussion paper. Therefore, a final revised paper is not foreseen.
Received: 17 May 2015 – Discussion started: 03 Aug 2015
Publisher's note: Copernicus Publications remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims made in the text, published maps, institutional affiliations, or any other geographical representation in this preprint. The responsibility to include appropriate place names lies with the authors.
This study of a New Zealand city's disaster preparedness smartphone application aimed to ascertain if it matched what experts say are effective ways of teaching disaster preparedness and teaching via an app. Results show that the app addressed most factors that hinder preparedness, excelled as a platform for learning, and communicated effectively. Weaknesses include the fact that it lacked targeted information for low-income people. The study shows how apps can assist with disaster education.
This study of a New Zealand city's disaster preparedness smartphone application aimed to...
- Printer-friendly version
- Supplement
