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

The article focuses on bridging higher education and local practice in disaster management education through three case studies developed via collaboration between undergraduate students, faculty, and local emergency management professionals. These case studies include active shooter preparedness training at a long-term care facility, an interactive emergency services field day for undergraduates, and a drone demonstration to support search-and-rescue (SAR) operations. Each initiative incorporated active learning and received positive feedback, illustrating how academic–practitioner partnerships can enhance disaster preparedness, response, and education while benefiting local communities. The findings emphasize the value of experiential learning and suggest that undergraduate involvement can meaningfully contribute to local disaster risk reduction efforts.