Hope for Education Remains in the Aftermath of Destructive Earthquakes: Postdisaster Experiences of Volunteer Teachers in Türkiye

Abstract

This study investigated the diverse effects of earthquakes, particularly on the education system, students, and teachers, drawing on the firsthand experiences of 53 volunteer teachers (VTs) during the postearthquake period, with a focus on their specific educational efforts, challenges, and emotional states. The findings revealed that the greatest challenge for VTs during the postearthquake period was psychological disorders and related concerns; VTs employed various strategies, such as adopting psychologically supportive attitudes, mutual sharing, and spending more time with students through social activities, drama, and games, to help students recover from poor mental health. Furthermore, a specific strategic plan and an educational disaster pedagogy are deemed essential in postearthquake situations to guide teaching.