EXPLORING EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS EFFORTS WITH AN EXPERIENTIAL SEISMOMETER EXHIBIT

Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah is situated along the Wasatch Fault, which is at risk for a magnitude 6 or larger earthquake. In the event of an earthquake the campus community could be severely impacted by injury, death, and economic loss. However, the impact could be mitigated through better education and preparedness efforts. The objective of this study is to determine how geoscience education regarding hazard preparedness can most effectively be delivered to students, faculty, and staff on our campus and how well the information is put to use. This project has two primary purposes: 1) survey Westminster College students, faculty, and staff in order to assess current knowledge and preparedness; and 2) assess the effectiveness of an interactive seismometer display to facilitate learning about earthquakes and the risks of living near a fault. Previous survey data collected on campus over the last four years measured self-knowledge and preparedness in the event of an earthquake. The results showed that while most people know about the hazard, few personally prepare themselves for an earthquake. This year, we added a functioning seismometer exhibit and informational signage. We collected data in the form of a two-part pre-test/post-test user experience survey from a sample of students, faculty, and staff on Westminster College’s campus. The aim of the survey is to assess how effective the interactive display and signage are at informing and encouraging better preparation among the campus community. Our results showed that participants greatly appreciated the exhibit and described it as a useful educational resource.