Backyard Meteorology: Forecast Weather Without Technology
Learn to predict weather by observing natural signs in this Harvard course on the science of meteorology.
Learn to predict weather by observing natural signs in this Harvard course on the science of meteorology.
Discover the art and science of weather forecasting in Harvard's "Backyard Meteorology" course. Unlike modern forecasts that rely on complex technology, this program teaches you to predict weather using observational skills and understanding of atmospheric processes. You'll learn to interpret cloud formations, wind patterns, and other natural phenomena to make accurate forecasts. The course covers the physical drivers of weather systems, global climate forces, and the limits of prediction in both human observations and computer models. By the end, you'll be able to forecast weather just by looking out your window, understanding everything from local breezes to global weather patterns. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, outdoor professional, or simply curious about the world around you, this course offers valuable insights into the ever-changing tapestry of our atmosphere.
4.7
(45 ratings)
1,02,708 already enrolled
Instructors:
English
English
Powered by
What you'll learn
Understand the role of air, water, and wind in weather systems
Learn to estimate local wind speed and direction without instruments
Identify different cloud types and their significance in weather prediction
Recognize the signs and characteristics of thunderstorms and tornadoes
Develop skills to collect and interpret data for next-day weather predictions
Understand the benefits and limitations of various weather forecasting methods
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
PreRecorded video
Graded assignments, exams
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Limited Access access
Shareable certificate
Closed caption
Get a Completion Certificate
Share your certificate with prospective employers and your professional network on LinkedIn.
Created by
Provided by
Top companies offer this course to their employees
Top companies provide this course to enhance their employees' skills, ensuring they excel in handling complex projects and drive organizational success.
There are 4 modules in this course
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to meteorology and weather forecasting, focusing on observational skills and the science behind weather systems. Students will learn about the physical processes driving weather, including the role of air, water, and wind. The curriculum covers various aspects of weather prediction, from traditional methods of observing cloud formations and wind patterns to understanding modern forecasting technologies. Participants will develop skills in identifying different types of clouds, estimating wind speed and direction, and recognizing signs of incoming weather changes. The course also explores more complex topics such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and the limits of weather prediction, including concepts like the butterfly effect. By the end of the course, learners will be able to make informed weather forecasts based on their observations and understanding of atmospheric processes.
Physical processes in weather systems
Module 1
Winds, weather masses, clouds, fronts in the temperate zones
Module 2
Other weather systems
Module 3
Weather predictions: Linear and non-linear systems
Module 4
Fee Structure
Instructor
1 Course
Distinguished Physicist Bridging Particle Physics and Ancient Navigation Arts
John Edward Huth, the Donner Professor of Science at Harvard University, has uniquely combined cutting-edge particle physics with ancient navigation techniques throughout his remarkable career. After earning his A.B. from Princeton University in 1979 and Ph.D. from UC Berkeley in 1985, he established himself in experimental particle physics through positions at Fermilab before joining Harvard in 1993, where he served as Physics Department Chair (2002-2006). His primary research focuses on electroweak symmetry breaking through his work with the ATLAS Collaboration at CERN, contributing to the Higgs boson discovery. A personal kayaking experience and the tragic loss of two young kayakers in fog off Cape Cod inspired him to develop expertise in traditional navigation, leading to his acclaimed book "The Lost Art of Finding Our Way" (2013) and his popular Harvard course "Primitive Navigation." His work spans from sophisticated particle detection at CERN to teaching students how to navigate by natural phenomena like waves, stars, and wind patterns. A Fellow of the American Physical Society and member of the Radcliffe Institute's Venture Faculty Program, Huth advocates for maintaining our connection to natural navigation skills while advancing our understanding of fundamental physics.
Testimonials
Testimonials and success stories are a testament to the quality of this program and its impact on your career and learning journey. Be the first to help others make an informed decision by sharing your review of the course.
4.7 course rating
45 ratings
Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this course. We aim to provide clear and concise answers to help you better understand the course content, structure, and any other relevant information. If you have any additional questions or if your question is not listed here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance.