Cobram Anglican Grammar School is preparing to integrate drone technology into its educational curriculum.
Upper Junior School students will be introduced to flying Tello ‘EDU’ micro-drones in a secure inside environment. Senior School students will learn to develop surveying and mapping skills, explore aerial photography and videography, and harness problem-solving and teamwork skills.
The school’s long-term vision is to expand the program progressively and eventually provide certified training to enable students in Year 11 and Year 12 to attain a Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot).
“This initiative reflects our school’s commitment to providing a quality education that meets the demands of industry best practice and embraces modern technologies that will shape our future workforce,” said Mr Keith Willett, Principal.
The drone program will offer students a comprehensive learning experience beyond the basics of flying. They will delve into the intricacies of robotics, aviation safety and regulations, and the vast applications of drone technology. Drones are already significantly impacting industries such as agriculture, photography, search and rescue, and environmental monitoring.
Mr Anthony McConnell, a Technology Teacher, has been at the forefront of coordinating the new program and is looking forward to the additional learning opportunities the drone devices will provide students of various ages.
“We have decided to integrate drones into the classroom to help students develop essential skills like focus, depth perception, and coding. By providing hands-on learning experiences, drones make complex subjects such as programming more engaging and less daunting, better-equipping students for future technological careers,” Mr McConnell said.
“As educators it is our job to inspire a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers and drone technology certainly has the capacity to do this,” Mr McConnell added.
