Why Is the Weatherperson Always Wrong? Using Hyperlocal Meteorological Observations to Empower and Educate K-12 Students on Their Local Weather Phenomena

Weather, and consequently people’s perception of local weather, can be highly influenced by factors like geography, urbanization, and land use, in addition to larger-scale synoptic weather patterns. Here, we propose integrating NSF NCAR’s 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Stations (3D-PAWS) into K-12 classrooms to foster a dynamic and hands-on approach to learning about weather in a hyperlocal environment. 3D-PAWS is a modular weather station built using low-cost instrumentation, 3-D Printed instrumentation enclosures, and a frame of PVC pipes. Construction of these stations can be done in the classrooms to provide K-12 students hands-on opportunities for instrument assembly, or simply pre-built and installed at local schools to be used in tandem with educational material in the classroom. This project offers opportunities for not only K-12 students, but also undergraduate and graduate students at universities to learn instrument construction and design with the modular, easily modifiable designs. By utilizing this place-based learning approach, we empower students to engage with their environment and community by being a part of the building, collection, and analysis of local observations. Increasing opportunities for students to gather data in their local environments not only provides essential learning opportunities, but also increases the observational capacity for modern weather objectives.