Inclusivity in online and distance disaster education: A review of educators' views

Abstract

Exemplary education that the future demands should foster a learning culture of belongingness and respect. Hence inclusivity in education is crucial, especially amidst the new risks such as digital inequality and digital power concentration. In light of the new normal in education with the emergency shift to an online setting following the Covid 19 outbreak, digital-based education for disaster risk reduction (DRR) too should be reimagined in a manner that no learner with vulnerabilities is excluded. Therefore, this article aims to investigate the current status quo of inclusivity aspects in online and distance disaster education and the benefits of online education to the DRR discipline. To achieve that aim expert interviews were conducted with 40 educators with experience in 13 countries. The key findings suggest that an online setting works best when it is scientifically designed for the right audience, right subject area and right mix. In creating inclusivity in DRR education the digital divide needs to be acknowledged and interactive learning should be looked at through a broader and more mature lens.