Experiences, perceptions, and educational expectations of university students affected by the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes in Türkiye

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences, perceptions, and educational expectations of university students enrolled in different faculties at Uşak University who were affected by the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Designed as a case study, the research was carried out with the voluntary participation of 43 students from 10 different faculties. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. The data collection tool, developed by the author, consisted of five open-ended questions with accompanying sub-questions. Following a pilot study conducted with semi-structured interview questions, the questions were revised and transformed into open-ended questions in line with the case study design. During the coding process and the development of categories and themes, participant confirmation and expert opinions were obtained, and feedback on the themes and codes was taken into consideration. The findings were presented under four main themes: Daily Life, Educational Expectations, Emotions, and Future Plans. Overall, the findings indicated that the students’ daily routines changed considerably after the earthquakes and that they experienced difficulties in coping with these changes. Online education and group assignments were perceived as particularly challenging. Communication with university staff regarding students’ needs appeared to provide important psychological support. The findings also showed that individuals who had not previously been in contact re-established communication out of concern for one another. Finally, participants reported uncertainty about their future plans and expressed a need for additional time to make decisions about their future.