Link to IDD:

Safe Drone Flying: A Comprehensive Guide for Enthusiasts

Minicourse Features:

1. Interactive Learning Modules: Participants will engage in dynamic modules covering key topics such as airspace regulations, safety protocols, and operational techniques. Each module will include multimedia elements, such as videos and animations, to enhance understanding.

2. Drone Flight Simulations: Learners will complete hands-on simulation exercises to practice basic and advanced drone maneuvers, ensuring they acquire practical drone flying skills.

3. Certification Guidance: A step-by-step guide on obtaining drone certification, including preparation for FAA tests, licensing information, and access to relevant resources. This ensures participants are prepared to become licensed drone pilots.

4. Community Engagement: Discussion forums and collaborative exercises will encourage learners to share experiences, troubleshoot issues, and discuss best practices in a peer-supported environment.

LMS Declaration:

I have selected Canvas as the LMS for this course. Canvas provides a highly flexible and user-friendly platform that supports multimedia integration, interactive activities, and robust community features, which align with the needs of this minicourse.

LMS Features Supporting the Course:

• Customizable Course Tools: Canvas allows the use of modules, quizzes, and discussions, enabling a structured course design with built-in assessment tools.
• Collaborative Learning: With Canvas’ group and collaboration features, learners can easily share knowledge, participate in discussions, and work together in the forums.
• Accessibility and Analytics: Canvas provides detailed analytics for tracking learner progress and performance, allowing continuous improvement and engagement monitoring.

Training Resources:

1. Canvas Instructor Guide: A comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of course creation, management, and student engagement. Available through Canvas LMS.

2. CanvasLMS YouTube Channel: Offers video tutorials on how to effectively use Canvas for course design, content management, and assessment creation. This is particularly helpful for visually walking through complex tasks.

Click here to see the survey.

Creating this survey was an opportunity to focus on how learners will react to both the course content and delivery. Creating the survey at this point in the design process provides an opportunity for the designer to re-center the needs of learners while conceptualizing content and delivery. It also means that the survey will be ready to distribute on time once learners start completing the course.

See the survey here

This module is associated with CLO 2: Demonstrate advanced drone maneuvers and CLO 3: Identify and mitigate risks in drone flying.

It will be included at the end of Unit 2 and will address both unit goals:

• By the end of Unit 2, learners will be able to perform advanced drone maneuvers safely.
• By the end of Unit 2, learners will be able to identify potential hazards and apply risk mitigation strategies.

In this module, learners will view a tutorial on advanced drone flying techniques, analyze real-world case studies of drone incidents, and create a risk mitigation plan. After taking this assessment, they will perform the advanced maneuvers in a simulated environment and submit a written risk mitigation plan.

Course Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate proficiency in drone operation techniques and maneuvers.
• Identify potential hazards and implement safety measures during drone flights.

Module/Lesson Learning Objectives:

• Learners will be able to reflect on their practical drone flying experience and safety practices.
• Learners will be able to identify and explain the critical safety protocols for advanced drone maneuvers.

Learning Materials and Activities:

• Video tutorials on advanced drone maneuvers.
• Self-guided readings on drone safety regulations.
• Discussion forums to reflect on flying experiences and safety challenges.
• Assignment: Submit a report detailing the safety protocols followed during a simulated advanced drone flight.

Discussion Board
Prompt:

Find at least one drone-related event or certification program that is currently open for registration. Share the following information in your comment:

• Event or certification title and date
• Relevant topics or skills covered
• Registration deadline

Assignment
Prompt:

Reflect on your journey as a drone enthusiast or operator. What drone models have you flown the most? What challenges or learning experiences stand out in your flying practice?

In 300-400 words, summarize your drone flying experience. Include details such as the types of drones you’ve flown, any specific flight projects you’ve worked on, or areas where you’ve gained significant skills (e.g., photography, racing, safety protocols).

Based on your reflection, identify one or two areas where you have developed a deep understanding or expertise in drone operation. These could be related to specific flying techniques, safety measures, or regulatory knowledge.

In 150-200 words, describe the area(s) of expertise you identified. Explain why you consider yourself knowledgeable in this area and how this expertise might be valuable for other drone enthusiasts.

In 150-200 words, brainstorm potential topics for a drone-related presentation you could give to a community of drone pilots. Consider questions like: What unique insights could you share? How can your experience benefit other enthusiasts?

Include at least one potential presentation title and a brief description of what your presentation might cover.

Module Introduction Video

Learning Theory:
In designing my drone minicourse, the learning theory that most influenced my decisions was Experiential Learning Theory (ELT). This theory emphasizes learning through direct experience, which is highly relevant for a hands-on subject like drone operation. ELT guided me to create learning objectives that focus on practical, real-world applications, ensuring that learners can immediately apply the concepts to their drone flying experiences.

For example, I developed activities where learners practice basic drone maneuvers in real or simulated environments, allowing them to apply new knowledge to their flying skills. I also included reflective tasks, encouraging students to critically think about their learning process, including how their current flying techniques can improve based on the course content.

Integrating Experiential Learning Theory made the course more learner-centered and applicable. I incorporated video demonstrations and flight logs, allowing students to document their learning journey, share their progress, and receive peer feedback. This approach ensured that every activity was grounded in practical experience, which is key for learners who are building or refining their drone operation skills.

ID Model:
In developing my drone minicourse, I followed the ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate) instructional design model. This model emphasizes a systematic approach, starting with analyzing learners’ needs and working through stages that ensure all course components align with the desired outcomes.

I began by identifying the core skills learners need to fly drones safely and effectively. From there, I designed objectives and assessments that would allow students to demonstrate their mastery of these skills. For example, I created assessments where students perform specific drone maneuvers, document their flight experiences, and reflect on their improvements over time.

The ADDIE process influenced the course’s structure by ensuring each phase of development aligned with the overall learning objectives. This resulted in clear, focused lessons that cater to both novice and experienced drone pilots. A challenge I faced was maintaining flexibility to accommodate different learner backgrounds while staying true to the course goals. However, the ADDIE model allowed me to implement varied delivery methods, including video tutorials, hands-on practice, and peer discussion, catering to diverse learning preferences.

Ultimately, the ADDIE model ensured that the course remained well-structured and goal-oriented, with a focus on practical application and continuous evaluation to meet the needs of all learners.

Syllabus link in minicourse

Syllabus PDF