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SEAR PROGRAM - SCIENCE | EXPERIENTIAL | AERIAL | RESEARCH

The SEAR Program engages high school students to academic research activities using drones and machine learning technologies. Students will learn how to utilize drone and machine learning technologies while conducting research that may contribute to the development of novel applications of technologies and processes.

Image by Gianfranco Cocco

What is it?

The SEAR program seeks to:

  • Teach students to collect drone-based multispectral and RGB data for a relevant topic.

  • Teach students to train machine learning software to identify objects or areas of interest in the imagery

  • Bring students to a field site to conduct aerial and ground-based research.

  • Teach students to conduct data analysis

  • Engage the students with environmental protection activities, promoting the attitude of conservation and protection for the future.

  • Help students obtain their drone pilot certificate.

  • Using applied research techniques in a real-world setting

Project Options:

  • The Invasive Species Project

  • The Crop Disease Project

  • The Litter Project

  • The Custom Project

 

1. Photosynthesis and Canopy Health Analysis.

Objective: Use drone-captured multispectral or RGB imagery to assess vegetation health and photosynthetic activity.
Tasks:

  • Fly drones over schoolyard trees or nearby forest/agricultural zones.

  • Use NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) maps.

  • Compare healthy vs stressed vegetation.
    Subjects Linked: Biology, Environmental Science, Geography.

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2. Air Quality Mapping with Drones.

Objective: Attach lightweight air quality sensors to drones to measure PM2.5, CO2, and VOC levels in different zones.
Tasks:

  • Conduct aerial sweeps over high-traffic or industrial areas.

  • Compare air quality in urban vs rural settings.

  • Create a pollution heat map.
    Subjects Linked: Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics, ICT.

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3. Water Source Monitoring & Pollution Detection.

Objective: Capture aerial imagery of local rivers, gullies, or coastlines to monitor water clarity, algae blooms, and erosion.
Tasks:

  • Plan regular drone flights over water bodies.

  • Document color change, sedimentation, illegal dumping signs.

  • Recommend cleanup strategies.
    Subjects Linked: Environmental Science, Geography, Biology.

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4. Solar Panel Efficiency and Shading Study.

Objective: Analyze how shade from buildings or trees affects solar panel output using drone mapping.
Tasks:

  • Simulate or map school rooftop and surrounding terrain.

  • Use 3D models to predict sun path and shading areas.

  • Present optimal solar placement strategies.
    Subjects Linked: Physics, Math, Geography, Technical Drawing.

 

 

5. Post-Disaster Damage Assessment Simulation.

Objective: Simulate a post-hurricane scenario and use drones to assess “damage” to buildings and infrastructure.
Tasks:

  • Create mock disaster scenarios using markers or objects.

  • Practice drone flights to assess extent of damage.

  • Create rapid-response reporting templates.
    Subjects Linked: Geography, Civics, ICT, Emergency Preparedness.

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6. Agricultural Crop Health Survey.

Objective: Monitor small farm plots or school gardens using aerial drone imagery.
Tasks:

  • Observe planting patterns and pest/disease presence.

  • Create yield prediction models based on plant health.

  • Recommend interventions (e.g., irrigation zones).
    Subjects Linked: Agriculture, Biology, Geography, Business Studies.

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7. Land Use and Urban Expansion Mapping.

Objective: Use drone imagery to study land development, urban sprawl, or deforestation near your school or community.
Tasks:

  • Compare historical satellite imagery with current drone images.

  • Map changes in land use and propose sustainable solutions.
    Subjects Linked: Geography, Social Studies, Environmental Science.

 

 

8. Biodiversity Aerial Survey.

Objective: Identify and map local habitats to understand species distribution and biodiversity threats.
Tasks:

  • Fly over coastal, forested, or wetland areas.

  • Capture images of different flora/fauna zones.

  • Categorize ecosystems and suggest conservation ideas.
    Subjects Linked: Biology, Environmental Science, ICT.

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9. Heat Island Effect in Urban Areas.

Objective: Investigate how built-up areas retain heat compared to natural vegetation.
Tasks:

  • Use thermal drones (if available) or time-based image comparisons.

  • Analyze roofing materials, parking lots, green spaces.

  • Suggest urban cooling strategies (e.g., green roofs).
    Subjects Linked: Geography, Physics, Environmental Science.

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10. Drone-based GIS Mapping Project.

Objective: Build Geographic Information System (GIS) maps using drone data and software like QGIS or ArcGIS.
Tasks:

  • Collect imagery of school campus or community zone.

  • Add layers such as footpaths, buildings, vegetation.

  • Create interactive maps or data dashboards.
    Subjects Linked: Geography, IT, Math, Technical Drawing.

Image by Colin Watts

HAVE QUESTIONS?

We're looking forward to hearing from you.

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