Atmospheric modeling is now an integral part of meteorology education even at the undergraduate level. With the advance in computing technology and the development of the open source Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, it has now become possible for undergraduate students to have first hand experience in using the state of the art mesocale numerical weather forecasting system as a learning tool.

There are 3 challenges in integrating a full physics numerical weather forecasting system such as WRF into the curriculum at an undergraduate institution, usually with very limited resources. The first challenge is to secure enough powerful computers to run the WRF model in a classroom setting. The second challenge is the availability of visualization and analysis tools that are easy to use and powerful enough such that these tools will not overwhelm typical undergraduate students. The third challenge is to systematically integrate atmospheric modeling into existing curriculum such that students will gradually learn how to use models as a tool to understand atmospheric phenomena.

This presentation will concentrate on our experiences and strategies at Kean University meteorology program to integrate WRF model in meteorology education. Some of the strategies that we use to address and overcome some of the challenges include (a) using the concept of bootable CD to build clusters on demand from existing PC's in the department computer lab; (b) integrating Matlab and IDV into the curriculum for model results visualization and analysis; (c) running local WRF forecast at about 15 km resolution centered at New Jersey; (d) using idealized cases such as supercell thunderstorm and baroclinic wave in lower to upper level classes; and (e) involving students to do research projects using WRF.