Moving students from the static environment of equations, maps and exams into the active learning experience can be a challenge. Throughout the meteorology curriculum at Valparaiso University, a required component of a majority of classes includes a variety of class presentations. The presentations generally start as group projects and group presentations in the sophomore level classes. By the junior and senior year, semester project presentations are individual, and are often of conference length and quality. Accompanying papers can present results from small research projects or give reviews of current literature on a wide range of topics pertaining to the class subject. Map discussions are done with partners at the junior level and solo at the senior level.

Students gain confidence in their presentation skills through this preparation in front of their peers. As an added bonus, they are prepared and willing to extend their skills to the public. This presentation will outline the class presentations requirements in the curriculum, show examples of presentation topics and styles, and discuss the outcomes for the students, the department and the community.