Your drone program has been a consistent hit, engaging students and successfully running for years. But as with all technology, change is inevitable. Some of your original drones have needed replacement, and since the models you initially purchased are no longer available, it’s time to transition to a new set of drones. This shift brings an opportunity to explore fresh possibilities and keep your program thriving.
With two different types of drones in your classroom, planning lessons may now require a bit more consideration to ensure smooth integration. Each drone’s unique specifications—such as their controller connection (WiFi, Bluetooth, or radio), battery compatibility, sensor capabilities, and camera features or lack of camera—can influence how they are used during activities. Balancing these differences while maximising their potential can provide students with a dynamic and versatile learning experience. This shift not only encourages adaptability; but also presents an opportunity for students to understand the technical diversity of microdrones and their real-world applications.
Combining Tello EDU and CODrone EDU
In this particlar article we will take a look at how to integrate the Tello EDU and CoDrone EDU drones in a single classroom lesson. It can be a fantastic way to explore the diversity in drone technology. With thoughtful planning, you can provide students with a hands-on learning experience that highlights the unique capabilities of each drone. Here are seven tips for successfully teaching such a class:
1. Introduce the basics of each microdrone
Begin by explaining the features and uses of both drones. Highlight key differences:
- Tello EDU: Controlled via iPads using a Wi-Fi connection.
- CoDrone EDU: Controlled via a radio signal controller.
This introduction sets the stage for comparing how different connection methods affect drone operations. This includes considering the steps it takes to connect to the controller and therefore the time it takes.
2. Set up separate workstations
Organise the classroom into two drone workstations behind the safety lines. This division keeps things structured and avoids confusion between the two connection types and reduces the possibility of batteries being mixed up. The differences to consider:
- Tello EDU Station: Includes iPads and a secure Wi-Fi setup for controlling the drones.
- CoDrone EDU Station: Features radio signal controllers and any required coding tools, including laptops.
3. Safety first!
Both Tello’s and CoDrones follow the same safety rules when being used in classrooms. Go over drone safety protocols, including:
- Keeping drones within designated flight zones.
- Paying attention to flight heights
- Wearing safety goggles throughout the flying lesson
- Understanding the signal to land and when to enter the flight zone
4. Incorporate hands-on tutorials
Provide students with a short, guided practice session for each drone for manual and coded flight. Let them see firsthand the pros and cons of each connection method:
- Tello EDU: Teach how to connect to the drone via the iPad, exploring the iPad-based flying app.
- CoDrone EDU: Walk through using the radio signal controller, including the take off and landing buttons, and introduce its block-based coding environment, Blockly
This may take a couple of lessons so that all students get the opportunity to use both drones.
5. Use comparison activities
Design activities that encourage students to compare the drones, such as:
- Performing simple tasks (e.g., hovering, turning, and landing) with both drones to evaluate responsiveness.
- Discussing which connection type they found easier to work with and why. This makes the lesson interactive and reinforces learning objectives.
6. Address troubleshooting skills
Building troubleshooting skills prepares students for real-world problem-solving scenarios. Teach students how to troubleshoot common issues:
- Tello EDU: Connection issues, overheating, apps freezing, drifting
- CoDrone EDU: Controller syncing issues, battery and sensors.
7. End with a collaborative challenge
Wrap up the lesson with a fun group activity that involves both drones. It could be as simple as an obstacle course, or check out some of our drone club games that both drones are capable of doing.
Once you have completed these lessons with the students, you can continue your drone program, providing opportunities for students to use the drones, aligning to the strengths of the machine.
