The National Science Standards are encouraging educators to be innovative, while being creative, to develop “live event learning” experiences for students. Research shows that as students participate in live events, the learning embedded within these events is internalized at a significantly higher rate and with substantially more retention than with traditional learning and teaching methods. This type of learning allows students to recognize the importance of what they learn as they apply it to real life situations.

With the help of the AMS, NWS-Norman, OK., NSSL-Norman, OK, SPC and Oklahoma University, I have developed a field experience that converts the “sluggish” idea that students may have about science into “pulse quickening” experiences that will create life long learning and fulfill the National Educational Standards. The field experience is a 5 day study located in the middle of “tornado alley” and focuses on the major components that make up the prediction, research and study of severe weather in the Central Great Plains.

This field experience creates a win-win situation for the students and the sciences abroad. The students win by learning more than they imagined and creating within themselves the desire to learn more.

Science wins because more students are willing to accept the challenges that it poses, which in turn, aids in solving problems that constantly plague our society. With the never ending advancements in technology, the field of science requires people who can continually take on the demanding tasks of solving these problems.