The Voltage Gate

One of our geography profs, who is teaching a storm chasing class over the summer, was featured on Good Morning America this past Sunday:

"I think it's important the general public begins to understand the concept of inquiry-based science education, which is what this course is all about, and that Frostburg State University is one of those higher education institutions that is leading the way in this area," Arnold said. "I am thrilled that we have the opportunity to communicate these messages through the national media, and am very happy that 'Good Morning America' chose to broadcast a feature on this course."

Arnold, a longtime storm chaser who created the class while teaching at Indiana's Ball State University, invited FSU students to take a tour of "Tornado Alley U.S.A." for the first time this summer. From May 29 to June 22, the group pursued hailstorms and twisters in states like Oklahoma, Colorado and Wyoming, witnessing the terrifying grandeur of nature at its most fierce--and its most beautiful and awe-inspiring. In addition to chasing storms, the group also enjoyed sight-seeing tours at places like Big Bend National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park and Carlsbad Caverns and spent time talking to residents of various communities they visited.

"You can watch students become more connected to the environment just by seeing how they experience the beauty," Arnold said.

A "Good Morning America" television crew visited FSU this spring to interview Arnold and one of his students. The show also joined Arnold and his class over the summer to capture some footage.

Sure, give an uber-cool storm chasing class right after I graduate. Props to Dr. Arnold and his purpose - make scientific inquiry public, and get people involved in the process, even if it is just an inkling.