Extended Abstract (160K)P1.35
Two courses missing from US university meteorology programs
Michael W. Douglas, NOAA/NSSL, Norman, OK; and J. Murillo and J. F. Mejia
This presentation describes the need for, and potential content of, two meteorological courses usually lacking in meteorology programs at US universities. These subjects are somewhat related and potentially could be combined into one course. The first subject is that of “Design and execution of field programs in the atmospheric sciences”. While it might be argued that there is such diversity in meteorological field activities that “hands-on” learning is best, there are many aspects common to most field studies that students could benefit from via formal lectures. Such a course might best be taught at the advanced graduate level, where students are closer to participating in, and perhaps helping design, such activities. The second, somewhat complementary course, might be titled “International Meteorological Activities and the functions of National Meteorological Services”. Rarely are US students (unlike foreign students) exposed to the enormous variety of meteorological activities that occur globally. An equally small number of students have a good conceptual understanding of the different components of any National Meteorological Service (including that of the US). Material common to both courses would include covering the existing (and research) observing systems across the globe – this material is often left out of courses on meteorological instrumentation.
Motivation for developing this material has come from the development of courses for international audiences with widely varying backgrounds. A sample syllabus will be provided to stimulate discussion.
Poster Session 1, Educational Initiatives Poster Session
Sunday, 20 January 2008, 5:30 PM-7:00 PM, Exhibit Hall B
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