Case studies in disaster management education: Bridging higher education and local practice

Collaboration between higher education and local emergency management agencies remains underutilized in disaster management education. This paper presents three case studies formed from a partnership between an undergraduate student, a faculty member, and local emergency management professionals. The case studies include (1) an active shooter preparedness training at a long-term care facility, (2) an interactive field day introducing undergraduate students to careers and competencies in emergency services, and (3) a search-and-rescue demonstration using drones to support local response efforts. Each case study incorporated active learning and received positive feedback from participants and collaborators. Key findings suggest that undergraduate students and faculty can meaningfully contribute to local disaster risk reduction efforts through place-based disaster education and training. We conclude that academic-practitioner partnerships offer a valuable model for enhancing disaster preparedness and response while advancing educational and community outcomes.