AMS Weather Studies: A Dynamic Curriculum for Atmospheric Science Education
The AMS Weather Studies package offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum designed to immerse students in the dynamic world of atmospheric science. Prepared by nationally recognized meteorologists specializing in atmospheric science education, this program emphasizes real-world application and utilizes current environmental data to foster a deeper understanding of weather phenomena.
Core Curriculum: Foundations of Atmospheric Science
At the heart of the AMS Weather Studies lies the 15-chapter textbook, "Weather Studies: Introduction to Atmospheric Science." This full-color textbook provides a robust foundation in the fundamental principles of meteorology. It meticulously covers essential topics, including:
- Composition and structure of the atmosphere: Exploring the various layers, gases, and particles that constitute our atmosphere and their respective roles.
- Energy flows: Examining the intricate pathways of energy to, from, and through the atmosphere, encompassing radiation, convection, and conduction.
- Atmospheric motions: Analyzing the forces that drive atmospheric circulation, from small-scale eddies to planetary-scale wind patterns.
The curriculum stresses the physical principles underlying atmospheric phenomena, equipping students with the tools to analyze and interpret weather patterns. A key focus is understanding the impact of weather on humans, with particular attention paid to severe weather events.
Hands-on Investigations: Applying Knowledge in Real-Time
Complementing the textbook is the Investigations Manual, which features challenging lab activities designed to reinforce the concepts learned in the textbook. These investigations are carefully coordinated with the textbook chapters, with two investigations assigned per week. Each investigation is structured with an Introduction and Applications section.
The Introduction section provides context and background information, preparing students for the activity. The Applications section presents real-world case studies that allow students to apply their knowledge to practical scenarios. This combination of manual and textbook ensures a comprehensive learning experience.
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RealTime Weather Portal: A Window to the Present Atmosphere
A cornerstone of the AMS Weather Studies program is the RealTime Weather Portal. This online platform provides students with access to a wealth of real-time weather data, including:
- Current weather maps: Visual representations of surface and upper-air weather conditions across the United States and southern Canada.
- Satellite imagery: Visible, infrared, and water vapor satellite images that offer a comprehensive view of cloud cover, temperature patterns, and atmospheric moisture.
- Composite radar displays: Real-time radar data that tracks precipitation and storm movement.
- Surface and upper-air data: Raw meteorological data collected from various observation points.
- Forecast maps: Projections of future weather conditions, allowing students to analyze and interpret weather forecasts.
The RealTime Weather Portal also delivers Current Weather Studies (CWS), Math Skills, Critical Thinking and Diversity exercises, further enriching the learning experience. Current Weather Studies are posted weekly each Monday around 12 pm Eastern Time and then archived on the RealTime Weather Portal as the semester progresses. Chapters 13, 14, and 15 are independent and the corresponding CWS are available on 15 August.
Accessibility and Support: Empowering Educators
AMS Weather Studies is designed to be accessible to both experienced science faculty and those new to teaching meteorology. The curriculum's flexible structure allows instructors to tailor the course to their specific needs and resources. The program has been successfully implemented by atmospheric scientists, geographers, geologists, and physicists, as well as faculty from disciplines such as engineering and chemistry.
To ensure a smooth implementation, AMS science educators are readily available to answer questions on all aspects of course delivery and content. This support system empowers educators to confidently deliver a high-quality meteorology course.
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