Drones for Project-Based Learning (PBL) Capstone Design

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the learning objectives of building drone aircraft for a variety of uses. We detail some of the design and learning challenges that the students take on and the results of the student's efforts. This course is formulated for project-based learning (PBL) and self-regulated learning (SRL). In particular, the program is a Capstone Design 2-semester course that additionally has an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) design and build criteria as a requirement. Completion of this project is a requirement for graduation, and students usually take the capstone design course in their senior year. For this particular capstone design, most of the topics covered are outside of the student's comfort zone and require research and decision making to arrive at a final project. We examine student motivations and difficulties. Students were allowed to set their own goals and timelines within the constraints and requirements of the project. In this paper we detail the requirements for this past year and the paths the students took. We examine the team interactions and final outcome and how this impacts their long term thinking and approach. The process of how we evaluate their learning activities as well as how they rate one another's efforts is also detailed.