Microdrones are becoming a regular tool used in classrooms. There are a number of steps that should be taken to implement a drone program in your school.
Professional development for teachers
Prioritise professional development for teachers. If teachers have a complete understanding of the technology, including the drones, control devices (tablets and/or laptops), safety regulations, and curriculum links. It will build a strong and confident drone program that ensures that educators teaching with drones have a solid understanding of safety protocols and operational guidelines. They can troubleshoot on the fly and are able to plan programs with strong ties to the curriculum and student learning.
Teachers do not need a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) to run drone programs within an educational institution. It is all explained here
Remote Pilot License (RePL) – Do I need this certification to fly drones?
No-fly zones and restricted areas
Can I fly my drone indoors at school? When flying indoors, designing safety zones and flight zones sets defined boundaries for flying in a more confined space.
When planning ourdoors flights clearly define no-fly zones and restricted areas within and around the school premises paying particular attention to distances between drones and the general school community and rules around flying drones overhead. This prevents drones from entering sensitive or potentially hazardous locations, such as sports fields during events or areas with high foot traffic.
Pre-flight Safety Checklists
Instill the habit of conducting pre-flight checklists. Students should learn the importance of inspecting drones, no matter whether they are flying microdrones or sub 2kg. They need to check for any damage, ensure batteries are adequately charged, and verify that all components are functioning correctly before takeoff. Understand where they are flying and whether all safety regulations have been considered.
Emergency Protocols
Develop clear emergency protocols to handle unexpected situations. Teachers and students should know how to respond to equipment malfunctions, loss of control, or any other unforeseen circumstances, ensuring a swift and coordinated response. When in doubt, LAND, is a great place to start.
Identify effective classroom management strategies to manage emergency situations and have a comprehensive risk assessment that covers all instances when things don’t quite go according to plan.
Privacy Awareness
Emphasise the importance of respecting privacy. Establish rules regarding the recording or photographing of individuals without their consent and ensure that drones are used responsibly to maintain a secure and respectful environment. Even when flying indoors, if a camera is operating, all participants must be aware of privacy rules and should establish proper protocols when using them.
Integrating drones into school curriculums opens up a world of educational possibilities, but safety must be the top priority. By instilling proper training, adhering to safety protocols, and fostering a culture of responsibility, schools can create a secure environment for exploring the endless potential of drone technology in education.
For more information on drones in schools in Australia please visit Drones at School where you can find more details on flying drones.
