Help me give my students DJI spark drones so they can gain confidence in their skills, overcome their hesitancy with technology, and complete their uav video project on drones in the energy sector.
I have a diverse group that is uniquely active both in class and in after- school activities. They are composed of multiple races and ethnicities and a special needs student. They are mostly boys, but we have three very eager girls in the group as well.
The engaging personalities and intellect of the group makes every project an endlessly curious and exciting journey.
They keep me laughing and challenged constantly, and they also make my job easier with their dependable participation. These students make up the largest part of our weather balloon program and also our newest UAV class. Although we struggle to maintain these programs as an urban Title 1 school, I'm always amazed of how positive they stay despite their own daily struggles.
During our first opportunity to launch a weather balloon, these students created their own red tesla, astronaut at the wheel, to send up into the atmosphere. It was a moment that epitomized their joy in learning.
These creative and eager learners are deserving of quality experiences and education. Who knows, with the right opportunities, maybe one day one of them will work at a Space-X!
My Project
Our students are so eager to engage with technology, but they are also very hesitant to use it when offered. Most of them do not get to use any technology consistently throughout their K-8 experience, or for that matter in the 9-12 experience. Many don't even have wifi access at home to use their one piece of tech, their phone. Imagine going to college where technology is ubiqitous but you do not have any experience, it is a stressful situation.
Donating DJI Spark drones will significantly enhance our student experience with several technologies in their current UAV course while also emphasizing advanced skill development and individual creativity.
Students currently have small, and unfortunately, very inconsistent mini drones. These small drones are making it difficult to learn manuevers; they lack the cameras necessary for their video project, and they are in short supply, so multiple students must share a single mini drone between them. Additional high performance, reasonably priced drones, will give students more hands-on experience with a technology that is dependent on the amount of experience. Properly functioning drones will give students the confidence to push their limits and improve their skills (which will be demonstrated in drone races). Increased numbers of drones will also allow students who are hesitant with technology to learn at their own pace. And, just as importantly, the camera enhanced drones will give them the ability to create their own videos, from drone flight, to video creation, to video editing.
Instead of the frustration and lack of focus inherent with subpar equipment, students will discover the real joy in learning for the simple fact that learning is made easier. We've come a long way since paper and pencil learning, but one concept has not changed. A quality learning environment makes for quality learning.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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