Abstract:

The understanding of research methods in university science degrees is of vital importance. Despite the application of specific methodologies in different fields, the fundamental principles and issues may be similar. One of the main abilities in the research process is data processing. Despite several tools being available for this purpose, python is nowadays one of the most used programming languages for this purpose. However, the programming skills of some students are not good enough. In this work, we present a proposal to introduce a research project for university students in Meteorology lessons and to establish a general methodology that could be easily adapted to other subjects.  

The general objective of the proposal is to allow the students to perform a research investigation by themselves by using programming in the analysis of real data. For this purpose, the steps are presented below by following the general research project process:
1. Select the topic and establish the problem to analyze and the hypothesis to clarify,
2. Design the research process and select the data,
3. Analyze the data and extract the conclusions. Students and teachers carry out these steps together. 

The students will be involved in all the steps; however, the teachers should act as a guide, especially in the part of programming design. 

In the application of the methodology for Meteorology lessons with environmental science students, the topic selected for the analysis was atmospheric rivers. Students use two-dimensional data and time series to analyze the characteristics of these structures and their effects. Data analysis is performed by using Jupyter Notebooks. This tool allows teachers to provide a guided document that allows students to follow programming procedures independently. 

To conclude, this word establishes a proposal to introduce university students to research methods by promoting self-reliance and programming skills. 

Keywords:

Research, meteorology, programming.