|
Office Hours: |
Continuous
|
|
Course Meeting Times: |
Continuous
|
|
|
Course Description
Meteorology is a fascinating subject. Because of its very nature, it is never constant or boring. Studies and observations of weather and climate and its impact on humans and the environment offer everything from gorgeous sunsets to terrifying hurricanes and tornadoes.
The study of land, atmospheric pressure, cloud formation and storms offers students of meteorology a never-ending and fascinating look into the forces of nature and our surrounding environment. From how rainbows form to the impact of pollution on the environment, this basic meteorology course explores such topics as how geography affects weather, cloud formation, wind forces. Weather forecasting methods as well as an introduction to global weather patterns such as El Niño are discussed in future lessons.
From weather forecasting to water conservation, this course introduces students to the vagaries of weather watching and forecasting. Studying the effects of pressure fronts that create hurricanes, tornadoes, and cyclones, offer students clues on how to watch the sky for signs of change, as well as a greater understanding of the development and formation of some of the most awesome powers on earth.
While many of us watch the local television station for news, our decisions of what to wear, when to plant seeds, or when to travel is often affected by unexpected changes in weather. From ancient times to the present, mankind's efforts to predict and forecast weather patterns have displayed mixed results. This course offers students a look at the history of meteorology as well as the impact humanity has on our own local climate and weather.
Course Requirements
You only need a web browser, an Internet connection, and an open mind. All other materials are provided within the course.
Course Outline
Lesson 1: What is meteorology?
Weather Watching Basics
Lesson 2: Climate
Seasons
How Geography affects weather
(Coastline, mountain, desert, etc.)
Lesson 3: All About Clouds
Precipitation
Wind Forces
Lesson 4: Fronts and Air Masses
Common types of each
Air Pressure
Humidity
Lesson 5: Under Pressure
High Pressure
Low Pressure
Lesson 6: Weather Forecasting
Methods and tips
Lesson 7: Stormy Weather
Tornadoes
Hurricanes
Lesson 8: Global Weather Patterns
El Nino
Lesson 9: Bodies of Water
Impact of circulation and evaporation
Lesson 10: Weather Conservation
Saving Water, Changing weather patterns
Lesson 11: Weather Effects
Rainbows
Aurora Borealis
Lesson 12: Careers in Meteorology
Course Materials
All course material will be provided in the lessons and netlinks. There are no required materials to purchase before taking the class
Grading Policy
Each lesson will include a lesson review quiz along with one or two assignments. Students will successfully complete this course with 70% or better.