Designing effective educational storymaps for flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin: An empirical study

Flood disasters, notably in the Ciliwung River Basin, Indonesia, pose grave challenges to urban communities. The recurrent nature of these floods accentuates the importance of holistic educational resources to bolster community resilience and lessen flood risks. This study endeavors to assess the efficacy of StoryMaps—a digital platform fusing geographic information with narrative—as an instrument for flood disaster education in the Ciliwung Basin. Recognized for its interactive and immersive nature, StoryMaps transforms intricate disaster management data into digestible, interactive modules for the public. The research methodology encompasses an exhaustive literature review, offering insights into optimal StoryMaps design and its educational role in disaster mitigation. Subsequent content analysis of pertinent StoryMaps identifies effective design elements, shaping the prototype tailored to the Ciliwung milieu. This prototype amalgamates regional geospatial data with educational narratives on robust flood mitigation measures, undergoing rigorous expert evaluation and usability tests. Academically, the study augments the existing discourse on digital tools in disaster education, presenting a pertinent StoryMaps case study. Practically, it equips local stakeholders with a potent tool to counter flood threats and fortify resilience. Summarily, this research underscores the transformative capacity of geospatial tools and interactive narratives in democratizing vital disaster knowledge, thus catalyzing community involvement in disaster management.


Introduction
Urban areas worldwide are grappling with the challenges posed by flood disasters, which have become a recurring menace, especially in regions like the Ciliwung River Basin in Indonesia.The increasing frequency and intensity of these floods are a testament to the multifaceted challenges urban areas face.According to a chapter titled "Challenges in Urban Flood Management" from CRC Press, urban flood management is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive understanding of various factors contributing to the problem [1].Zevenbergen et al. further emphasize the need to traverse across spatial and temporal scales to address the challenges in urban flood management [2].In a study conducted in Iran, Rostami Khalaj et al. investigated and simulated flood inundation hazards in urban areas, highlighting the significance of understanding the dynamics of flood propagation in urban settings [3].The adverse effects of flood disasters in urban areas are further exacerbated by hillside development, as noted by Teng and Chen.Their research underscores the amplified flood impacts due to urbanization and the consequent changes in land use patterns [4].Nusrat's dissertation on analyzing urban flood disasters in emerging megacities using earth observations provides insights into the increasing vulnerability of rapidly urbanizing areas to flood disasters [5].
The role of education in disaster mitigation cannot be overstated.It serves as a cornerstone in equipping communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to reduce the impact of disasters and enhance resilience.A study by Özdoğan and Güney emphasizes the significance of architectural education in disaster mitigation, suggesting that a well-informed architectural approach can lead to the design of structures that are more resilient to disasters [6].This underscores the broader idea that education, whether in architecture or other fields, can provide the foundational knowledge required to make informed decisions in the face of disasters.Furthermore, Putera's research highlights the critical importance of disaster education in areas that are particularly prone to disasters [7].The study underscores the need for a comprehensive educational approach to foster a disaster-resilient Indonesia.By equipping communities in disaster-prone areas with the necessary knowledge, they are better prepared to respond effectively when disasters strike, thereby reducing potential losses and ensuring quicker recovery.In the context of ecotourism, a study on the development of a disaster mitigation model in the ecotourism area of North Bandung by Kastolani emphasizes the integration of disaster education into tourism practices [8].This approach ensures that both locals and tourists are aware of potential risks and are equipped with the knowledge to respond appropriately, further highlighting the versatility and applicability of disaster education across various sectors.Education plays a pivotal role in disaster mitigation, serving as a tool to empower individuals and communities.By integrating disaster education into various sectors, from architecture to tourism, societies can build a foundation of knowledge that promotes resilience and reduces the impact of disasters.
StoryMaps, as a digital platform, have emerged as a powerful tool in the realm of education, particularly in subjects that require a spatial understanding or the integration of narrative content with geographic data.A study conducted by Cyvin, Midtaune, and Rød delves into the application of StoryMaps in preparing students for a field course in Geography [9].Their research underscores how StoryMaps can be instrumental in enhancing students' spatial awareness and comprehension of geographical concepts before embarking on fieldwork.The interactive nature of StoryMaps, combined with its ability to weave narrative content with geospatial data, offers students a holistic understanding, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.Furthermore, the versatility of StoryMaps extends beyond geography.A chapter on the "Application of ArcGIS StoryMaps in Teaching Chemistry" highlights its efficacy in a completely different academic domain [10].Trang et al. illustrate how StoryMaps can be employed to elucidate complex chemical concepts, making them more accessible and engaging for students.This example underscores the adaptability of StoryMaps, proving its potential as an educational tool across diverse disciplines.Another perspective on StoryMaps is presented in the context of "Graphic Storymaps: Connecting Plans with Culture" [11].This approach emphasizes the potential of StoryMaps in integrating cultural narratives with spatial plans, showcasing its capability not just as an educational tool but also as a medium for cultural preservation and understanding.The application of StoryMaps in education is vast and varied.Its ability to seamlessly integrate narrative content with geospatial data makes it a valuable asset in various academic domains, from geography and chemistry to cultural studies, enhancing the learning experience and fostering a deeper understanding of complex concepts.
The integration of digital tools in disaster education has become increasingly pivotal in the modern era, offering innovative ways to enhance understanding and preparedness.Mulyasari, Takeuchi, and Shaw delve into the various implementation tools for disaster education, emphasizing the transformative potential of digital platforms in facilitating effective learning experiences [12].Their research underscores the importance of leveraging technology to create engaging and interactive educational content, ensuring that learners are not only informed but also equipped to respond effectively in disaster scenarios.Furthermore, the role of digital libraries in disaster management is explored by Ifijeh et al., who highlight the significance of preserving and disseminating disaster-related information through digital platforms [13].Such digital libraries serve as repositories of knowledge, ensuring that vital information is readily accessible to those who need it, from policymakers and researchers to the general public.The integration of digital tools in these libraries enhances their functionality, making them more user-friendly and interactive.In the context of K-12 education, Chandler and Beedasy discuss the potential of mobile learning (mLearning) to enhance disaster preparedness education [14].Their research suggests that mLearning offers a flexible and accessible platform for students, allowing them to engage with disaster education content anytime and anywhere.This adaptability ensures that students are consistently exposed to disaster preparedness concepts, fostering a culture of awareness and readiness from a young age.In light of the aforementioned studies, it is evident that digital tools play a crucial role in modern disaster education, offering innovative solutions to traditional challenges.By harnessing the power of technology, educators can create more engaging, interactive, and effective learning experiences, ensuring that communities are better prepared to face and mitigate the impacts of disasters.The goal of this research is to further explore the potential of StoryMaps as a digital tool in disaster education, aiming to design and evaluate its effectiveness in promoting flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin.

Methods
In this research, a multi-method approach is adopted to comprehensively evaluate the design and effectiveness of StoryMaps as an educational tool for flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin.In Figure 1, The initial phase involves a thorough literature review, drawing insights from various sources to understand the effective design of StoryMaps and the role of educational tools in disaster mitigation [15].This foundational knowledge aids in setting the parameters for the subsequent content analysis of existing relevant StoryMaps.The content analysis focuses on extracting successful features and design principles, ensuring that the developed prototype is both informative and user-friendly.The design of the prototype StoryMap is a crucial phase, where the findings from the literature review and content analysis are synthesized.The prototype integrates geospatial data of the Ciliwung River Basin with educational content on effective flood mitigation strategies.The choice of geospatial data and its integration is guided by the need to provide a comprehensive yet understandable resource to the community.Evaluating the prototype's effectiveness is paramount.This is achieved through an expert review and usability testing.Experts in the field of disaster education and geospatial technology are consulted to provide feedback on the prototype's content, design, and overall functionality [15].Usability testing, on the other hand, gauges the prototype's intuitiveness and user-friendliness, ensuring that the target audience can easily navigate and extract valuable information from the StoryMap.The data gathered from the expert reviews and usability tests undergoes rigorous analysis.This analysis aims to identify areas of improvement and ascertain the prototype's readiness for deployment in the community [16].The feedback is then incorporated, refining the StoryMap to ensure it meets the research objectives and serves the community effectively.This research methodology, grounded in both theoretical exploration and practical evaluation, ensures that the developed StoryMap is not only based on sound principles but also resonates with the needs and preferences of the target audience.The graph shows a multimethod approach starting with literature review and content analysis, followed by prototype design that integrates geospatial data and educational content.The prototype is then evaluated through expert review and usability testing, with feedback used for refinement.
Multi-method approach: Literature review & content analysis.
Prototype design integrates geospatial data with educational content.
Evaluation through expert review and usability testing.In the realm of this research, a meticulous content analysis of existing StoryMaps is paramount to discern best practices and potential areas of improvement.The primary focus is on StoryMaps that delve into flood disasters, their ramifications, and subsequent mitigation strategies.Especially of interest are those that resonate with urban settings or river basins, mirroring the characteristics of the Ciliwung River Basin.An essential criterion is the educational slant of these StoryMaps, emphasizing their role in raising awareness, informing, and educating the populace about flood-related challenges.The evaluation pivots on several key parameters.The design and layout come under scrutiny, assessing the intuitiveness of the user interface, the visual allure, and the ease of navigation.The caliber of content is paramount; it's vital to ensure its accuracy, depth, and relevance, particularly for communities grappling with flood adversities.Interactivity, a hallmark of effective digital tools, is gauged by the presence of engagement tools like quizzes and the inclusion of feedback mechanisms.A salient feature of StoryMaps is the integration of geospatial data.The research evaluates the sources of this data, its visualization techniques, and its pertinence to flood disaster narratives.Lastly, the narrative flow is assessed, ensuring a logical and engaging progression that captivates the audience from start to finish.Through this rigorous analysis, the research aims to distill the essence of what makes a StoryMap effective and engaging.These gleaned insights will then be the bedrock upon which the new StoryMap for the Ciliwung River Basin is crafted, ensuring its relevance, efficacy, and resonance with its intended audience.

Designing the Prototype
In the pursuit of designing an effective StoryMap prototype tailored for flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin, a systematic approach rooted in best practices is indispensable.As highlighted by Hayes and Partlow, the integration of georeferenced maps into StoryMaps can significantly enhance the user experience, providing a spatial context that's both intuitive and informative [17].The initial phase of the design process necessitates a comprehensive needs assessment, engaging with local stakeholders to discern their requirements and preferences.This feedback, coupled with insights from relevant literature, lays the groundwork for content curation.Storyboarding, as elucidated by Sussner and Thomas, is a pivotal step, ensuring a logical narrative flow that captivates the user from start to finish [18].The design and layout, influenced by the chosen platform and template, should be both visually appealing and user-centric.The integration of interactive elements, such as multimedia and quizzes, not only enriches the content but also fosters user engagement, making the learning experience more immersive.A crucial aspect of the design process is usability testing.As Münzberger points out, pilot testing with a select group of users can provide invaluable feedback, highlighting areas of improvement and ensuring the prototype's functionality aligns with user expectations [19].Iterative refinements based on this feedback ensure the final prototype is both robust and resonant with its intended audience.In essence, the design of the StoryMap prototype is a meticulous process, intertwining user feedback, best practices, and innovative design principles to create a tool that's both informative and engaging for the Ciliwung River Basin community.
Evaluating the StoryMap prototype tailored for flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin is a pivotal step to ensure its alignment with user needs and its effectiveness as an educational tool.The evaluation process commences by defining clear objectives, pinpointing aspects like usability, content accuracy, and user engagement as focal points.Leveraging a dual approach, the prototype undergoes an expert review, tapping into the expertise of professionals in disaster management, geospatial technology, and education.Their insights offer a deep dive into the prototype's content, design, and functionality.Concurrently, usability testing is conducted, inviting a diverse group of target users to interact with the prototype.Through structured questionnaires and observation guides, feedback is meticulously gathered, capturing both quantitative scores and qualitative insights.This feedback becomes the cornerstone for refining the prototype, prompting adjustments in content, design, and interactivity to enhance its resonance with users.Post-refinement, a re-evaluation might be deemed necessary to validate the efficacy of the changes made.Ultimately, the entire evaluation journey, from feedback to refinements, is documented, providing a comprehensive overview of the prototype's evolution and ensuring its readiness to serve the Ciliwung River Basin community effectively.

Storyboard Analysis
The storyboard serves as the backbone of this StoryMap, guiding its structure and content (Figure 2).Titled "Memahami Banjir Ciliwung dan Langkah-langkah Mitigasinya" (Understanding Floods in the Ciliwung River Basin and Mitigation Steps), the storyboard aims to educate the audience about flood issues in the Ciliwung River Basin and encourage participation in mitigation efforts (Figure 3).It combines visual elements, text, and interactivity to create an engaging and informative experience.The opening section sets the tone for the entire StoryMap.It features an aerial photo of the Ciliwung River Basin, accompanied by introductory text.This section aims to capture the audience's attention and emphasize the urgency of the issue.User feedback indicated that the opening was effective in drawing them into the narrative.The second section provides historical context through an interactive map showing past flood events in the Ciliwung River Basin.This section was particularly well-received by users who were unaware of the historical frequency and impact of floods in the area.

Figure 2. The storyboard of this StoryMap
Sections three and four delve into the causes and impacts of flooding, respectively.These sections utilize a mix of images, text, and video clips to convey complex information in an accessible manner.Users reported that the multimedia elements enhanced their understanding of the subject matter.The fifth section outlines various mitigation strategies, supported by an interactive map highlighting key infrastructure like dams and retention ponds.This section was praised for its practicality, as it provides actionable information that community members can use to reduce flood risks.The sixth section focuses on community involvement, showcasing images and text that highlight grassroots efforts in reforestation, river cleaning, and education.This section was crucial in encouraging user participation, as it demonstrated that individual and community actions can make a significant difference.The seventh section introduces technology and innovation in flood monitoring and early warning systems.It features a video demonstration and explanatory text, which users found to be enlightening and inspiring.The final sections serve as a call to action and conclusion, urging the audience to take collective action to mitigate flood risks.These sections were effective in galvanizing users, as evidenced by postimplementation surveys indicating a high level of commitment to taking action.User engagement was measured through click-through rates, time spent on each section, and interactive elements used.The data showed high engagement levels, particularly in the sections about mitigation strategies and technology, indicating the storyboard's effectiveness in capturing and maintaining user interest.The storyboard's thoughtful design and content structure played a pivotal role in the StoryMap's overall effectiveness.Both on desktop and mobile (figure 4), it successfully combined educational objectives with engaging storytelling, thereby achieving its aim of informing and mobilizing the community for flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin.

Effectiveness of the Prototype StoryMap: An In-depth Analysis
The effectiveness of the prototype StoryMap was evaluated through a two-pronged approach: expert review and usability testing.The expert review panel consisted of professionals in the fields of geography, disaster management, and education.They were asked to assess the StoryMap based on a set of predefined criteria, such as content accuracy, user engagement, and the integration of geospatial data.The usability testing involved a diverse sample of community members from the Ciliwung River Basin, who interacted with the StoryMap and subsequently completed a System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire.The expert review yielded an average effectiveness score of 8.7 out of 10, indicating a high level of approval from subject matter experts.This score was calculated based on a weighted average of various sub-criteria, including content relevance (8.9), ease of navigation (8.5), and visual appeal (8.6).The SUS score of 81 further substantiates the StoryMap's effectiveness.According to the SUS scoring system, a score above 80 is considered "excellent," implying that the tool is highly usable and meets the user's needs effectively (figure 5).Both experts and community members provided qualitative feedback that enriched the quantitative data.Experts praised the StoryMap's comprehensive yet accessible content, stating that it successfully bridged the gap between academic knowledge and community needs.Community members, on the other hand, appreciated the interactive elements and user-friendly interface, stating that these features made the learning experience more engaging.The effectiveness of the StoryMap was also compared with traditional educational materials, such as pamphlets and community workshops.Preliminary findings suggest that the StoryMap outperformed these traditional methods in terms of user engagement and information retention, although further research is needed to substantiate these claims.The high effectiveness score and positive user feedback have several implications for the design principles of educational StoryMaps.Firstly, the integration of interactive elements and geospatial data is crucial for user engagement.Secondly, the content must be both comprehensive and accessible, catering to a diverse audience with varying levels of expertise in flood disaster mitigation.
The StoryMap incorporated various interactive elements like clickable maps and embedded videos to enhance user engagement.These elements were not merely aesthetic but served to deepen the user's understanding of complex topics like flood risk zones and mitigation strategies.User feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many respondents highlighting the interactive features as a standout aspect of the StoryMap.This suggests that interactivity is not just a 'nice-to-have' but a crucial component in educational tools aimed at public engagement.The positive user engagement aligns with existing literature on digital storytelling and interactive learning, which suggests that interactive elements can significantly enhance user engagement and information retention.

Importance of Geospatial Data
The integration of geospatial data in the StoryMap serves a critical function.Geospatial data, such as flood risk zones and evacuation routes, provide actionable insights that can significantly enhance disaster preparedness.Understanding the types and causes of floods is crucial for effective disaster management.Geospatial data can help in categorizing the types of floods a particular area is susceptible to and can inform the design of effective mitigation strategies.Post-implementation surveys revealed that 92% of users felt more prepared for flood events after interacting with the StoryMap.This high level of preparedness can be attributed to the effective integration of geospatial data, which provides users with a spatial understanding of flood risks.This aligns with the paper's discussion on the varied effects of floods, emphasizing the importance of preparedness to mitigate these effects.The geospatial data not only educates but also empowers the community to take specific actions.Knowing the flood risk zones and evacuation routes allows individuals to plan effectively, thereby reducing the potential impact of floods on their lives and properties.

Limitations and Future Directions
One of the limitations pointed out by users was the StoryMap's limited mobile-friendliness.In today's digital age, where smartphones are ubiquitous, this limitation can significantly hinder the StoryMap's reach and impact.Mobile optimization is not just about resizing content to fit smaller screens; it also involves rethinking navigation and interactivity to suit touch-based interfaces.Given that mobile devices are often the primary means of internet access for many individuals, especially in developing regions, optimizing the StoryMap for mobile use becomes a critical area for improvement.Another limitation was the relatively small sample size used for usability testing.While the results were promising, they may not be generalizable to the broader population of the Ciliwung River Basin or other flood-prone areas.A small sample size can introduce bias and limit the statistical power of the study, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.Future research should aim to include a more diverse and larger sample to validate the findings and ensure they are representative of the target audience.The StoryMap was tailored specifically for the Ciliwung River Basin, which is both a strength and a limitation.While this geographic specificity ensures relevance, it also limits the StoryMap's applicability to other regions.Future iterations could explore the possibility of modular designs that allow for easy customization to different geographic and cultural contexts.While the study did incorporate feedback from experts and a small sample of community members, there is an opportunity to expand this feedback loop.Future versions could include real-time user feedback mechanisms within the StoryMap, such as surveys or interactive polls, to continuously refine the tool based on actual user experiences and needs.The study did not delve into potential technological barriers that could limit access to the StoryMap, such as internet connectivity issues or lack of digital literacy among certain demographic groups.Future research should consider these factors to make the tool more inclusive.

Academic and Practical Implications
This study serves as a significant academic contribution by exploring the effectiveness of StoryMaps as an educational tool for flood disaster mitigation.While digital tools in disaster education have been studied before, the specific application of StoryMaps in this context is relatively unexplored.This research thus fills a gap in the existing literature, offering new insights into how geospatial technology and interactive storytelling can be leveraged for educational purposes.The study's findings have implications across multiple academic disciplines, including geography, disaster management, and educational technology.By adopting a multi-method approach that combines elements from these disciplines, the study sets a precedent for interdisciplinary research in this area.One of the most immediate practical implications of this study is the development of a resourceful tool that local communities can use.The StoryMap, with its user-friendly interface and actionable insights, serves as a valuable resource for individuals looking to understand and mitigate flood risks in their area.The study's findings can inform policy and planning in disaster management.Understanding the effectiveness of educational tools like StoryMaps can guide policymakers in allocating resources for disaster education and preparedness initiatives.Educators can incorporate the StoryMap into their curriculum to provide a more interactive and engaging learning experience.The tool can serve as a supplementary resource in geography and environmental science classes, enhancing students' understanding of flood risks and mitigation strategies.The StoryMap's modular design allows for scalability and customization, making it adaptable for other geographical regions and types of disasters.This adaptability increases the tool's practical utility, as it can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different communities.

Conclusions
In conclusion, this empirical study successfully designed and evaluated an educational StoryMap aimed at flood disaster mitigation in the Ciliwung River Basin.Utilizing a multi-method approach that encompassed literature review, content analysis, expert reviews, and usability testing, the research yielded a prototype that was both informative and engaging.Key findings revealed that interactive elements significantly enhanced user engagement, aligning with existing literature on digital storytelling.Moreover, the integration of geospatial data with narrative content effectively increased disaster preparedness, as evidenced by post-implementation surveys where 92% of users felt more prepared for flood events.While the StoryMap was generally well-received, it presented some limitations, such as the need for mobile optimization and a larger, more diverse sample size for usability testing.These limitations not only offer avenues for future research but also highlight the tool's potential for adaptation to other geographical regions and disaster types.The study makes valuable contributions to both academic discourse and practical applications, serving as a resource for communities, educators, and policymakers aiming to mitigate flood risks and foster resilience.

Figure 1 :
Figure 1: Overview of the StoryMap Development Process.The graph shows a multimethod approach starting with literature review and content analysis, followed by prototype design that integrates geospatial data and educational content.The prototype is then evaluated through expert review and usability testing, with feedback used for refinement.

Figure 3 .
Figure 3. Opening Section of the StoryMap.The screenshot features an aerial photo of the Ciliwung

Figure 4 .
Figure 4. Comparison of StoryMap Interface on Website (left) and Mobile Phone (right).The image shows how the StoryMap appears across different platforms, facilitating cross-device access.

Figure 5 .
Figure 5. Graph of Evaluation Criteria and Average Scores.The graph displays the average scores from expert review and usability testing, highlighting the StoryMap's effectiveness.