Earticle

초록

영어

This study examines disaster awareness and preparedness among international students in Japan, with a focus on the role of Japanese language proficiency. A questionnaire survey was conducted with 195 international students in Tochigi Prefecture, followed by chi-square analysis to explore differences between students who use Japanese and those who do not. The findings indicate that a high proportion of international students (over 85%) possess sufficient Japanese language skills for daily communication, while about 15% have limited proficiency. Only around 30% had prior disaster experience in their home countries, highlighting the need for targeted support, particularly for newly arrived students. Universities play a critical role in providing orientation and training to improve students’ understanding of disasters in Japan. The study also reveals that international students tend to evacuate to familiar locations, such as their universities or places where acquaintances are present, rather than officially designated evacuation centers. This suggests the importance of preparing non-designated locations, especially universities, to function effectively as evacuation sites during emergencies. Regarding the relationship between language ability and disaster awareness, students who can speak Japanese demonstrate greater knowledge of evacuation centers. However, Japanese proficiency does not necessarily reduce anxiety or improve overall preparedness. In some areas, such as first aid knowledge and communication with local residents, students with limited Japanese skills showed higher levels of preparedness. These results indicate that disaster preparedness education should be provided to all students, regardless of language ability. Finally, the study highlights limited interaction between international students and local communities. Strengthening these connections is essential, as international students—particularly those with strong Japanese skills—have the potential to contribute as disaster volunteers and community leaders, supporting mutual aid in aging and depopulating regions.

저자

• Akiko Iizuka [ Utsunomiya University ]

참고문헌

발행기관

간행물

표지보기 관심저널 등록

• 간행물명

  한국재난정보학회 학술발표대회

• 간기

  부정기

• 수록기간

  2005~2026

• 십진분류

  KDC 338 DDC 361