Weaving Together Theory and Practice in Synoptic Meteorology

The writing intensive, senior-level, synoptic meteorology course at Valparaiso University utilizes a combination of theory and practice to fully immerse the students in critical thinking about the atmosphere and its processes. As a capstone experience, this course attempts to transition students from passive information gatherers to practicing meteorologists through a combination of in-class activities, homework assignments, exams, and projects. From the first assignment reading “Old Times on the Mississippi” by Mark Twain to emulating the weather service by writing area forecast discussions, students are expected to utilize their comprehensive meteorological knowledge to critically analyze and forecast the weather. These highly desirable skills are transferable to any task they might encounter in their future careers, both within and outside of the meteorological field. The main course topics, activities, and projects will be presented, focusing on the AFD portfolio project and the group case study.