Computer Education for Undergraduates in Meteorology/ Climatology and Geographic Information Systems: An Integrated Approach

该项目的目的是开发一个气象/地理信息系统计算机网络，使气象和地理信息系统实验室之间能够交换原始数据和成品。每个实验室都有一个局域网，由一台文件服务器和几个工作站组成，并配有适当的打印机、绘图仪和其他外设作为共享资源。这些实验室允许学生以非传统的方式分析和展示气象、气候和地理数据。其中一个实验室主要致力于利用国家科学基金会资助的Unidata数据流和PC-McIDAS显示和分析软件显示和分析气象数据。第二个实验室主要用于使用基于栅格和基于矢量的软件的地理信息系统应用程序。这些实验室通过大学计算网络(HuskerNet)连接在一起，以允许局域网之间的数据交换。实验室之间的协同关系为创新的本科教育和研究创造了独特的环境。现有的气象学-气候学和地理信息系统课程因配备了最新的计算机设备而得到改进，扩大的能力允许在这些课程中增加额外的课程。这两个联合实验室允许在课程中强调物理世界和社会活动不可分割的性质，并为全国其他部门提供一个示范项目。NSF的赠款资金正在与来自非联邦来源的资金相匹配。

The purpose of this project is to develop a meteorology/geographic information systems computer network that allows the exchange of raw data and finished products between the meteorological and geographic information systems (GIS) laboratories. Each laboratory consists of a local area network (LAN) comprised of a file server and several workstations, with appropriate printers, plotters and other peripherals attached as shared resources. These laboratories allow students to analyze and display meteorological, climatological and geographic data in non-traditional ways. One laboratory is primarily devoted to meteorological data display and analysis using the NSF-funded Unidata data stream and PC-McIDAS display and analysis software. The second laboratory is used primarily for geographic information systems (GIS) applications using both raster- and vector-based software. The laboratories are joined through the University computing network (HuskerNet) to allow data interchange between LANs. The synergistic relationship of the laboratories creates a unique environment for innovative undergraduate education and research. Existing courses in meteorology-climatoloqy and GIS are improved by the up-to-date computer equipment and the expanded capabilities allow additional courses to be added to these programs. The coupled laboratories allow an emphasis of the inseparable nature of the physical world and societal activities in courses and provide a model program for other departments around the country.NSF grant funds are being matched with funds from non-federal sources.