We developed an innovative and interdisciplinary, game-based training program, “Response to Natural Disasters and Climate Action”, with the help of which 192 teachers improved their knowledge and skills and can teach students interdisciplinary lessons on preparedness, training in natural disaster behaviors and actions against climate change. The methodology is based on educational games and tools that can substantially contribute to environmental education, the fight against climate change, as well as the acquisition of key skills by students. The 4 online Minecraft games have been specially designed to support solving challenges related to natural disasters. The game is complemented by guides that help integrate it into the classroom. Thanks to them, 385 students were trained with the aim of increasing their awareness of natural disasters and their effects and of forming appropriate behaviors and attitudes in case of natural disasters through the use of simulation games. Last but not least, we wanted to improve the digital and gamification skills of the participating teachers and students.
Climate change affects us and that is why we must be prepared to deal with it. Global warming produces extreme weather phenomena, which can lead to natural disasters, such as: earthquakes, heat waves, droughts and forest fires, strong storms, floods and imbalances, massive snowfalls. One of the needs that the project covered is the formation of preventive skills and attitudes against climate change and the appropriate response in case of natural disasters. These must be part of formal education to reduce the number of victims, post-traumatic and anxiety disorders that may arise. Developing a sense of responsibility, solidarity and sustainability by creating an informed awareness is another need that had to be covered. Students must be guided to an environmentally friendly lifestyle and the formation of proactive attitudes. Environmental education is very fragmented in EU schools, lacking a holistic approach, while disaster risk management education is completely absent in most European school curricula. Therefore, the project aimed to improve responses to natural disasters, to develop a proactive attitude towards the environment, towards oneself, one’s loved ones, community and to strengthen social and civic values.