Our Year 11 Geographers recently transformed King George Square into a living fieldwork laboratory as they investigated the liveability, functionality and usability of one of Brisbane’s most important urban public spaces. This hands-on investigation brought classroom concepts to life, allowing students to engage directly with the urban environment in a meaningful and practical way.
Throughout the day, students applied a range of real-world geographical fieldwork techniques. These included thermal imaging to measure surface temperatures across the site, as well as pedestrian flow and land use mapping to better understand how people interact with the space. Students also conducted Environmental Quality Index surveys, including sound measurements using decibel meters to assess noise levels.
A key aspect of the study involved engaging with the broader community. Students carried out public perception surveys, gathering valuable insights into how visitors experience and value the space. In addition, they used digital tools such as Survey123 to collect and record spatial data.
Back in the classroom, students are now using industry-standard ArcGIS geospatial technology to spatially analyse, visualise and map their findings. This forms part of their Field Report where they investigate how effectively King George Square meets the needs of a growing and changing city.
The use of ArcGIS places students at the forefront of current industry practices. These are the same digital tools used by urban planners, environmental consultants, engineers, transport planners and emergency services, as well as organisations in defence, mining, local government and sustainability sectors. With the geospatial industry one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, and demand for GIS capability continuing to surge leading into the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, students are developing highly transferable, future-focused skills linked to high-demand employment opportunities.
This experience highlights real-world learning at Ormiston College, where students move apply classroom knowledge to investigate real environments, work with industry-standard technology, and engage directly with the community. By collecting and analysing live data and exploring how urban spaces function in practice, students are developing critical thinking, technical skills and global awareness which can be used beyond the classroom.
