The National Science Foundation awarded Richard Bland College $998,348 on October 1, 2025, under the STEM Education program (CFDA 47.076) to develop and implement the Drone Racing to Educate and Advance Math (DREAM) project.
The project develops math-and-drone integrated curriculum for undergraduate and secondary school students through three components: enhanced curricular design with collaborative research teams and instructional modules for college students; a mathematics and drone flight bootcamp to improve math confidence and outcomes for high school students; and a drone racing program to recruit and train students in advanced technological education. The initiative creates a new Uncrewed Autonomous Vehicle (UAS) certificate program as an emerging career pathway, integrating real-world drone applications into mathematics instruction. Research activities include pre- and post-assessments of math attitudes and STEM performance to assess the efficacy of the experiential learning environment. The project aims to increase student math abilities and preparedness, establish a leadership model around drone usage and technology transfer for faculty and teachers, and address workforce gaps in UAS and mathematics curriculum.
Performance occurs in Petersburg, Virginia. The period of performance runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028.