Disaster Education Through Local Knowledge in Some Area of Merapi Volcano

Abstract

Abstract Merapi volcano in Central Java is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. However, the area of Mount Merapi is still occupied by many inhabitants. Population growth in disaster prone areas is also quite high, even after a major eruption disaster in 2010. To reduce disaster risk, disaster education is necessary, including by utilizing local knowledge about disasters. This paper aims to (1) identify disaster education through local knowledge in the western and southern flank of Merapi Volcano, (2) reveals the influence of physical environmental conditions on disaster education that is formed. The research is done by geography approach that is environmental approach and emphasize on the theme of geography especially location, place, and human- environment interaction. The results show: (1) There are several forms of disaster education through local knowledge among others in the form of advice, philosophy of life, myths, art, and culture. The educational process is done in various activities of community life, both during pre disaster, disaster, and post disaster. village elders and community leaders are the most influential parties in the disaster education process. However, at present the role of local knowledge in disaster education is relatively poor. (2) There is an influence of the physical environmental conditions on the form of disaster education, especially geomorphological conditions. Geomorphological conditions affect the types of volcanic hazards, thus determining the characteristics of disaster education undertaken. This paper presents alternative methods in disaster education, in an effort to support disaster management that has been done by the government.