Scoutlier Soars to New Heights: Fox13 Features USF Drone Camp

We’re excited to share that Scoutlier has once again been featured on Fox13 news, highlighting our involvement in the groundbreaking USF Drone Camp. This innovative program, a collaboration between Scoutlier, the University of South Florida, and AMRoC Fab Lab, is redefining project-based learning and career readiness for young learners.

Our Chief Education Officer, Brandy Jackson, was on hand to showcase how the camp is elevating STEM education. “Here the skills you’re learning is how to actually apply drones to real world problems,” Jackson explained. “Now you’re not just a consumer, you’re a creator. You’re a problem solver.”

The week-long camp goes beyond simply teaching students how to fly drones. Participants engage in a variety of activities that demonstrate the real-world applications and career opportunities in drone technology:

1. Obstacle Course Flying: Students navigate aerial competitions, honing their piloting skills.
2. Drone Repair: Campers learn the intricate art of soldering, working on the tiny circuit boards within drones.
3. Business Planning: Groups collaborate to develop drone-based business ideas, from wedding videography to package delivery.

This multi-faceted approach embodies Scoutlier’s commitment to differentiation and scaffolding in education. By providing a range of activities and difficulty levels, we ensure that every student can engage meaningfully with the material, regardless of their prior experience or skill level.

Caryn Preston, USF Youth Experiences Assistant Director, emphasized the camp’s focus on career readiness: “We want them to understand that flying drones is super cool, but there’s also so much more that goes into it, and there are real career opportunities that are available to them.”

The enthusiasm from participants is palpable. Aras Demirok, a 17-year-old camper, shared, “What I like about drones is that I can build it, code it, drive it, use it how I like.” This hands-on, creative approach is at the heart of Scoutlier’s educational philosophy.

As we continue to push the boundaries of enrichment programs, the USF Drone Camp serves as a shining example of how project-based learning can be both fun and deeply educational. By combining cutting-edge technology with practical skills and entrepreneurial thinking, we’re preparing students for the careers of tomorrow, today.

Stay tuned for more exciting developments from Scoutlier as we continue to revolutionize education through innovative, engaging, and future-focused programs!