Measurement and Observation and Difficulties in the Teaching of Meteorological-related Items in Compulsory Education Schools: Results of a School Questionnaire Survey in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

A questionnaire survey was conducted to gain an understanding of the current situation regarding observation and measurement of meteorological items and climate variation measures at compulsory education schools in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. The results showed that: a) meteorological measurement, data storage, and disclosure have not been actively conducted in schools; b) Hyakuyo-bako—a traditional meteorological observation system—is rarely used and the maintenance is insufficient, although many elementary schools are equipped with it; c) students’ interest in meteorological topics was high but teachers felt some difficulties in teaching them; and d) measures to counter heatstroke in schools have been implemented meticulously.