A Study on the Relationship Between the Amount and Type of Clouds and Air Temperature at the Chiang Mai Rajabhat University Demonstration School

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between the amount and types of clouds and air temperature in the area of Chiang Mai Rajabhat University Demonstration School, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province. The objectives were: (1) to enable students to learn scientific concepts and skills through practical investigation, (2) to allow students to identify and classify cloud types, estimate cloud cover, and measure air temperature according to the GLOBE Program guidelines, and (3) to examine the relationship between cloud amount and air temperature. Data were collected from June 16 to June 27, 2025 (excluding weekends) by three Grade 5 student observers. The observations revealed that the most common cloud type was Nimbostratus, with cloud cover ranging from 69% to 78%, while the air temperature varied between 29°C and 31°C. Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis showed a negative correlation (r ≈ -0.73), indicating that as cloud cover increased, air temperature tended to decrease significantly. The study helped students understand scientific concepts related to the role of clouds in reflecting solar radiation and regulating atmospheric temperature. However, the limitations of this study include the small sample size and uncontrolled environmental factors, which should be improved in future investigations. The results can be applied to enhance Earth science learning activities, fostering students’ understanding and interest in scientific inquiry.