Learning Activities

Description:

This set of tutorials explores the use of remote sensing data to monitor Great Lakes Weather and Climate. The entire basin experiences four distinct seasons each year, readily observed by satellite instruments. The large glacial lakes splayed out in multiple directions ensure that every weather system passing through the Midwest produces an added punch unique to the region.
While working through these lessons, learners will have several opportunities to apply NASA satellite data to the exploration of Great Lakes Weather and Climate.

Learning Objectives:

After successfully completing these modules, students will be able to use appropriate satellite data to do the following:

• Identify classic Great Lakes storm tracks
• Be familiar with classic Great Lakes cloud patterns
• Distinguish clouds from snow
• Estimate storm arrival time
• Identify Green-up and Green-down
• Explain differences between lake-effect and
  lake-enhanced weather events

Prerequisites:

Before using these tutorials, students should be familiar with rudimentary meteorology concepts and the basic satellite remote sensing principles covered in Learning Activity 1. A

Pedagogical Applications:

These tutorials can be used in a number of ways in various disciplines. Some suggestions are provided below.

• Supplement high school or early college level courses teaching weather, climate, or remote sensing.
• Supplement meteorologists training.