Overview
This white paper presents findings from CAST’s Take Flight project, which integrates drones designed for the classroom from Robolink and the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to increase equity and access in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and career and technical education (CTE). The program was piloted with over 1,100 students across 33 schools in 11 states, with 349 students completing surveys before and after engaging with the program.
Results demonstrate statistically significant gains in students’ STEM career interest, drone and coding skills, and STEM collaboration and growth mindset. Teachers also gained drone experience and strong intentions to continue implementation beyond the grant period. The findings of this work suggest that inclusive, drone-based learning can broaden participation in STEM by providing students with accessible, engaging, and career-connected pathways.
This white paper was developed in collaboration with Robolink, whose classroom-ready drone technology was essential to the Take Flight project.
Download a one pager about the Take Flight project
Authors
Amanda Bastoni, Director of Career, Technical & Adult Education, CAST
Jessica Hall, Senior Research Scientist, CAST
Megan Williams-Bowen, MEd (Editor)
Cite As
Bastoni, A., & Hall, J. (2025, November). Broadening Interest in STEM Careers Among Rural Learners: Evidence from CAST’s Take Flight Program (M. Williams-Bowen, Ed.). CAST, Inc. & Robolink, Inc.