Whether it’s in the class or on the field, drones help curious minds soar!

Drones are not just the next household item or backyard toy. Drones are now making their way into the education system and bringing a whole new view to today’s students.

Jeff Ingraham, technology specialist for Educational Service Unit No. 3, recently flew a DJI Phantom drone over football practice at Westside Community Schools in Nebraska. The drone is equipped with a GoPro camera that shoots high definition video of the students below while GPS and four rotating blades keep the device steady in the air. This allows sports coaches and band directors to see formations on the field like never before, without the risk of climbing into field towers.

DJI Phantom drone being used to capture footage of football practice

Drones are also making their way into classrooms to help young minds of science, technology, engineering and math explore new possibilities. The students learn to write programs for the drones to perform simple (or complex) exercises.

Fifth-graders fly a drone through a hula hoop as part of an experiment.

School officials are even using drones to capture dramatic, Hollywood-style videos to show off their facilities and promote their districts. The applications are only as limited as our imaginations.

What do you think about drones entering into the education system?
As a parent, would you like your kids to learn how to use drones in school?
If you’re a student, do you want to learn about drones in class?
Let us know your opinions.

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Information and images from: Omaha World-Herald, http://www.omaha.com.