Designing Educational Card Game for Geological Disaster Mitigation as an Introduction Media for Early Childhood

Abstract

This study aims to design an educational card game as a medium for introducing geological disaster mitigation to early childhood (ages 3–6). The lack of specific interactive media makes it difficult for preschool/kindergarten children to maintain their attention in existing socialization programs, as experienced by the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Surabaya City in the “Sina-Sini” program. The design method uses a qualitative-descriptive approach with 5W+1H analysis supported by primary data from interviews with BPBD and preschool/kindergarten teachers. The design concept adopts the principle of Edutainment with the main idea of “Awas dengan Keselamatan Mandiri” (Be Aware of Independent Safety). The visualization uses a child-friendly Flat Cartoon Illustration style and a bright colour palette, as well as Matching Items game mechanics to train quick responses and memory. The design result is a set of educational card games on geological disaster mitigation that function as interactive, portable, and effective tools to support BPBD socialization, instil preparedness, and reduce the percentage of disaster victims in the early age group.