We know the weather is fascinating to people of all ages! Atmospheric science research projects offer a unique look at how we research weather and climate. This summer an array of mobile facilities, fixed ground-based facilities, and several research aircraft will span the greater mid-west region studying the evolution of nocturnal convective systems over the high plains in a project called PECAN.

The PECAN project will be offering a unique opportunity for science and engineering teachers in the Hays, KS area to learn ways to incorporate atmospheric field projects into your classroom to help teach weather and climate science by using authentic and relevant research projects. 

WHO

Middle & high school science and engineering teachers in the Hays, KS region. Group size limited to 20. RSVP to rockwell@ucar.edu is required.

Optional Credit 

Fort Hays State University will offer an optional one credit hour for attending the workshop. The requirements for the course are to attend the workshop and optional field trip, followed up by submission of three lessons that align with NGSS and illustrate a performance base. Please contact Ann Noble (amryan@fhsu.edu) for information on enrollment and fees regarding course credit.  

WHEN

Wednesday, 17 June 2015 from 2:00 - 5:30 p.m. [plus optional site visit in Ellis from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.]

The workshop will take start in the late-afternoon as to best engage with the night operations of the project. There is no cost to attend the workshop.

Agenda:

2:00 - 3:00 p.m.: Meet for an overview of the PECAN project & tour of mobile facilities

3:00 - 4:00 p.m.: Attend project weather briefing and planning meeting at FHSU, where the plan of the nightly operations are discussed based on the weather briefing 

4:00 - 4:45 p.m.: Talk with project scientists

4:45 - 5:30 p.m.: Review available resources for classroom use, including examples of atmospheric research instruments, data plotting activities, kinesthetic radar-related activities, and use of project Field Catalog.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.: Drive to Ellis (20 minute drive) & time to eat [Personal transportation and food accommodations are needed.]

6:30 - 7:30 pm: Optional site visit to the fixed instrumentation ground site in Ellis, KS and weather balloon launch. 

WHERE

Fort Hays State University

Tomanek Hall Rm 106

WHAT TO BRING

• For safety purposes, please wear close-toed shoes
• Water and sunscreen
  • weather permitting, we will be outside looking at facilities for a portion of the workshop