Students in Geography have been using GIS (Geographic Information System) software to understand their local environment. GIS is a computer system that creates, manages, analyses, and maps all types of data.

GIS connects data to a map, integrating location data (where things are) with all types of descriptive information (what things are like there) and helps users understand patterns, relationships, and geographic context and is currently used in science and almost every industry.

Students have been able to create their own maps and analyse data such as where the tsunami, flooding and the historic zones are in Oamaru on their maps, in Year 11, to work out the best location for an imaginary new Kmart store.

While in Year 12 students are manipulating specific data to establish the best location for an imaginary new ski field in the Mackenzie district. They used existing geospatial database to collect, data such as topography, elevation, slope land cover, infrastructure, and access points. Students then were able to produce maps that were a comprehensive visualization of the ski field areas, including their outlines, along with additional layers and base maps for enhanced analysis and understanding.

Students have been highly engaged using the software in class for their learning and assessments. Some comments from students:

“It has helped gain more knowledge on using maps and finding locations online” Pua (Year 11). 

"Last year I found I improved in my mapping for skills by doing the GIS tasks” Riley (Year 12).

“It's good to see things visually which helps me learn” Kate (Year 12).

“I like using GIS because it is more of an interactive way to find out information because you can add different layers and look at different things and it is good because it is something different to help me learn” Maddy (Year 12).

“I am finding most things easy to pick up and really enjoying making the maps and using layers, filters and creating buffers” Bailey (Year 12)

“I find it really fun to work with” Milan (Year 12)