The imaginary eruption – volcanic activity through kids' eyes

Abstract. Strategies of risk mitigation become effective when citizens facing hazardous phenomena adopt rational behaviours that contribute to the lowering risk. This is more likely occur endangered communities share a widespread understanding natural and their impacts. To reach this goal, educational outreach materials are often organised around descriptions process its effects. Unfortunately, however, receiving correct information does not automatically grant adoption safe behaviours. Our teaching efforts may fail because pre-existing biases, beliefs, misconceptions. The identification these biases important plan campaigns capable providing concepts needed actually inform citizens' choices about hazards. In work, we present results an unconventional workshop on volcanic proposed primary secondary schools (aged 6–13) in Italy. meant explore mental models kids youngsters have eruptions, it takes form creative exercise. We asked pupils write illustrate story four frames, describing onset outcome imaginary eruption. All stories were then presented class always provided useful hints spark discussion processes As whole, collected provide multifaceted description eruptions potential impacts as imagined by kids. A careful analysis material several insights improve future plans. simple reproduce, even remotely, could easily be extended different types While very organise, approach grants secure engagement most participants offers perspective pupils' phenomena.