Meteorological Technicians Training Course Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA-regional Training Centre) Lory Jean Canillo

Brief Description Meteorological Technicians carry out weather, climate and other environmental observations and assist weather forecasters in the dissemination of forecasts, weather warnings, and other related information, products and services. A reliable forecast depends on how accurate the observations were made, encoded and transmitted. DURATION: 5 months (Theoretical & Practical) AUDIENCE: (Primary)PAGASA employees, personnel of other National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) and other interested applicants, who meet the requirements. ***I choose to work on this training program since it plays a “vital role” in producing a reliable data that is crucial in providing weather forecast throughout the country.

Training Goal Produce a qualified Meteorological Technicians, who will be tasked to observe weather parameters to be used in weather analysis, diagnosis and forecasting. Allow the public to rely with the weather forecast provided by PAGASA Weather Bureau. If the Meteorological Technician is able to perform his duty with promptness and accuracy, it will help prevent property damage and loss of life.

LEARNING NEEDS (base with the actual Job and responsibilities of a Weather Observer). LEARNING SOLUTIONS Classroom (Theoretical) – lecture discussion approach On-the-Job training – coaching approach (in operational environment) LEARNING ASSESTMENT Theoretical Phase - Instructors Assessment Practical Phase – checklist/ direct observation, based on the Learning needs for the actual duties in operational environment. Learning needs Taking accurate weather observations especially in the occurrence of Severe Weather Conditions and other weather phenomena. Transmitting observation data in prescribed code forms within allotted time. Resourceful in dealing with unusual condition and keeping a close and continuous watch on the weather while on duty. Each Trainees have to learn and experience local climatology. Verifying or validating encoded data before sending (usually done by the CMO).

Challenges Time available – participants are mostly from operations and field stations Lack of Experts – availability of experts in the content course Technologies available – poor internet connectivity through out the country. Learning Management System (still in developing process) Large scope - participants have to learn and experience local climatology for accurate observation. Archipelagic topography of the country Lack of trained expert Currently we don’t have a training management system