Studies of hydrological systems are becoming increasingly complex and require integration of knowledge across multiple domains. At the same time, technological advances have enabled the collection of massive quantities of data for studying earth system changes. Fully leveraging these datasets requires new approaches in the way researchers store, access and process hydrological data. New cyberinfrastructure (CI) that emphasizes data sharing and open, reproducible software practices is in development, but requires a mode of knowledge transfer (cybertraining; CT) that extends beyond currently available university curriculum.
We propose to develop a CT approach that will provide virtual learning experiences throughout an academic year, oriented around a one week in-person workshop (WaterHackWeek) at the University of Washington eScience Institute that will focus on hands-on real-world projects. These activities will use HydroShare to share hydrologic data and models. We will address broad questions and provide CT to ensure successful use of HydroShare to 1) publish large datasets, 2) run numerical models, 3) organize collaborative research projects, and 4) meet journal requirements to follow open data standards.
Our short-term goals are to develop new CT modules; our long-term goals are to have an annually recurring WaterHackWeek, to distribute curriculum CUAHSI to more than 130+ member universities, and advance CI education for the broader geoscience community.