280381 VO Tropical Meteorology (2025S)

Student performance will be evaluated based on a final exam. Nonetheless, the class will encourage active learning following the two tasks mentioned below.

Task #1: Current Weather Outlook
Students will present the state of tropical weather by analyzing live visualizations of global weather conditions (e.g., https://earth.nullschool.net/), focusing on an "event of interest." The event of interest will be provided in the previous class. Each presentation will be approximately 4 minutes long. The number of presenters per class will be determined based on the number of participants in the course.
Evaluation Criteria: Clarity of understanding and critical thinking.

Task #2: Case Study Report on Significant Events
Students will submit a 5-page (maximum) report (A4 size, font size 11, standard layout) on a significant tropical weather event such as ENSO, MJO, or Monsoons. The report should demonstrate a clear understanding of the chosen event and its implications.
Evaluation Criteria: Clarity of understanding, critical thinking, flow of narration, and quality of graphics. Credit will be given for using original plots, graphics, images, schematics, etc. Some relevant Python notebooks will be shared during lectures to assist with data analysis and visualization [Data visualization python scripts shall not be shared unless this task is attempted].

Final Exam – Handwritten Documentation of Tropical Weather
On the day of the exam, students will document the current state of tropical weather based on live visualizations of global weather conditions. Laptops and other devices will be allowed for viewing live visualizations, but the documentation must be handwritten.
Evaluation Criteria: Clarity of understanding, ability to synthesize real-time weather information, and logical and innovative presentation of observations.