*New* Web-GIS, School-Community Disaster Preparedness, and Geographic Literacy in Japan (08/31/26)

Posted: 8/6/2026 ()

Title: Web-GIS, School-Community Disaster Preparedness, and Geographic Literacy in Japan

Speaker: Takashi Oda, PhD Associate Professor, The University of Tokyo

Date and Time: Monday August 31, 2026 at 10:30 am PT

Location: UW, Gould Hall 208J or please register to receive the Zoom link

Abstract:  This talk will introduce recent research and practical initiatives in Japan on the use of Web-GIS and geospatial information for disaster risk reduction education, with a particular focus on school safety and school-community disaster preparedness.  Drawing lessons from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, including the tragedy at Okawa Elementary School, I will discuss how geographic literacy and spatial thinking can support better risk recognition, evacuation decision-making, and communication among schools, families, and local communities.  The talk will also highlight current challenges in disaster education in Japan, including spatial mismatches between hazard information and local preparedness, as well as emerging efforts to use GIS-based educational tools, hazard maps, and citizen participation to strengthen community resilience.