Improving competence in the seismic code implementation for housing in Indonesia using visualization and practical exercises

Abstract

Recent data on earthquake tragedies reveals that the seismic code implementation for residential houses is remarkably rare in Indonesia. Improvement of construction actors’ competence for this situation is important. This paper examined the application of video-based visualization and practical exercises as educational tools for seismic code application to improve the competence of construction actors in the context of non-engineered residential houses in Indonesia. Video-based visualizations were compiled from several social media sources, and practical exercise materials were developed utilizing different essential aspects of quality building materials. There were 19 masons and carpenters involved in this study through a focus group discussion to evaluate the improvement of competencies before and after seeing the video and participating in practical exercises in the Bantul District, Indonesia. The results have demonstrated an enhancement in competence of around 29.01% among participants before and after seeing the video and participating in practice. A significant correlation (r=0.602) was observed between the participants' educational background and their improvement in the application of seismic codes. The age group of 42-43 years has had the most significant enhancement in competency compared to others. Work experience and age show no significant correlation (r=0.129 and r=-0.216 respectively) with the increase of competence.