Using Simple Classroom Demonstrations as Meteorological Teaching and Learning Tools

Demonstrations in the classroom provide a unique opportunity for students to experience firsthand basic physical concepts taught in meteorology classes. These demonstrations can be used for students of all levels—elementary though postgraduate—and are best done with student participation followed by opportunities for students to repeat and explore these demonstrations on their own. These demonstrations can also be the basis for exercises that allow the students to describe and explain what they have learned. The level of complexity of the demonstrations can easily be made age and experience appropriate. The four in-class demonstrations highlighted in this presentation focus on the basic physical processes associated with 1) atmospheric pressure, 2) dew-point temperature, 3) infrared radiation, and 4) aerosol-cloud interactions. The basic elements of a successful demonstration are outlined in each case and features appropriate for students at different levels are illustrated. These demonstrations can be used to develop effective learning-by-doing experiences and inquiry-based instructional modules.