Saint Anselm Drone Camp

Drone Camp
The Technology & Ethics of A.I. & Robotics
July 7-13, 2024

Learn how to build, code, fly, and grapple with the ethics of drones.

Join us for a stimulating week of building, programming, and flying drones, as well as working in small groups to discuss the ethical challenges that have emerged in AI and robotics.

This camp, now in its third year, will advance skills in programming, engineering, and operating unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as reflecting upon and communicating the principles and values that govern drone use. This camp will take place on Saint Anselm College’s beautiful, safe campus with award winning dining, fun recreation, and new friendships.

Interested in drone technology? With professional guidance, you will…

Learn Python programming, which is the primary language used in machine learning and AI today.
Build and fly basic aerial drones.
Gain an understanding of machine learning and AI.

Interested in discussing ethics? During this camp, you will be part of an ethics circle where you will…

Learn about the ethical theories that govern our day-to-day actions.
Participate in an Ethics Lab discussion about AI and drones, facilitated by an expert in the field.
Compete in a dynamic and collaborative Ethics Bowl competition.

This camp is hosted by the Center for Ethics in Society, Saint Anselm College’s Computer Science Department, and STEM-ED 501(c)(3).

Who is this camp for?

Students participating in the annual Ethics Bowl program

This camp is designed to be accessible for any high school student who is interested in drone technology and ethics. All skill levels are welcome–no prior experience is required.

Accommodations and Food

While at the camp, students will be housed on campus in the Saint Anselm College residence halls with two students per room; students may request to be partnered with their friends. Student dorms will be separated by gender and supervised.

Students will be provided three meals a day prepared by Saint Anselm College Food Services, which is ranked nationally for best campus food. All meals are served as an all- you-can-eat buffet which will vary over the course of the camp; typical items include steak tips, pasta, and chicken parmesan. All dietary restrictions can be accommodated.

Students may order additional meals to their dorm.

Overview of Camp Schedule

Sunday				Registration/Ice Breakers
Monday	Inspirational Demonstration/Intro to programming	Intro to Ethical Theories & Ethics Bowl	Tello/Droneblocks	STEM Activity
Tuesday	Building and flying drones	Ethics Activity & Prep	Flight Time	Team Activity
Wednesday	Introduction to ML/AI	Ethics Lab	Flight Time	Film Night
Thursday	Mechanism Design/Work time	Ethics Bowl Competition	Work/Practice time	STEM Activity
Friday	Work/Practice/Finialize Competition Entry	Work/Practice/Finialize Competition Entry	Work/Practice/Finialize Competition Entry	Game Night
Saturday	Presentations	Competition

Why Python?

Python is a modern high-level programming language with a focus on ease of expression. While Python can be picked up quickly it also allows for a lot of potential complexity. Python is not just an academic curiosity or learning language though. Python is the primary language used in machine learning and AI today! Companies like Apple, Facebook, Nvidia, and Google all use Python for their AI projects.

Why Aerial Drones?

Flying is cool! Besides that, aerial drones are the future of autonomous robots. Many robotics competitions and camps focus on ground-based robots that maneuver around on wheels. We introduce students to the world of flying autonomous robots setting us apart from other robotics camps.

Registration

Financial Aid Request →

Registration for the Saint Anselm Drone Camp costs $925. For questions or additional information, please contact Prof. Michael Huelsman mhuelsman@anselm.edu.