The University of Twente is committed to enlarging its challenge-based signature, as expressed in Shaping2030. Challenge Based Learning (CBL) is seen as a promising educational framework. To implement the vision of the University of Twente and support further adoption of CBL in our education, innovation of education is required. One example that embraces the prospects of CBL, is UAV Photogrammetry.
At the Faculty of Geo-information Science and Earth Observation, lecturer Farzaneh Dadrass Javan teaches photogrammetry, in which Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) play a large role. Combining education on UAVs with Challenge Based Learning is a clear focus for 2022: “We got a green light on a project proposal for a call at the UT to innovate our education regarding UAV Photogrammetry. I am also proud of another project that received a grant from The International Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing”, states Dadrass Javan.
Challenge Based Learning and UAV Photogrammetry
Experts in agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management are using UAVs for data collection and information extraction. However, these professionals often operate without having any specific education in photogrammetry. “Education modules would need to be embedded in a framework closer to their professional interests, different from traditional teaching methods. In this regard, CBL looks a promising solution for this purpose as it can perfectly tailor the content for different backgrounds and needs,” says Dadrass Javan.
“UAV photogrammetry is normally taught using a traditional approach, giving relatively extensive explanations on the algorithmic background. It is often far from the expectations of students with a limited mathematical background. Problems faced in agriculture, food security, and cultural heritage can be reformulated in the CBL framework, facilitating the understanding of the students and the development of innovative solutions through education and playing a bridging role from the academic environment and end-users demands.”
The future of education
“A lot of our education is taught in a ‘traditional’ way, without considering the different needs, backgrounds, and expectations of students. Lifelong learning, refreshers, tailor-made courses, and other capacity building activities are directions that the University of Twente is going to follow in the coming years to adopt the educational system more with the real needs of students, and challenge based learning can support them all. CBL is particularly suitable for students from other domains that want to gain knowledge in a new discipline to solve challenges in their domains", states Dadrass Javan. The ISPRS project aims at delivering guidelines on how to deliver UAV photogrammetry education in a Challenge Based Learning framework for our community. The guidelines will be organized according to written texts, micro-lectures, and webinars. In addition, the project will fine-tune this educational methodology on a real pilot course to point possible problems out in the early stage and give a practical example to our community.
More information
More information on the grant from the International Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS) can be found here.
