In this innovative course, students explore how drones and geospatial technology are transforming modern agriculture, forestry and other applications. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students investigate real-world applications of drone technology in food and fibre production - from monitoring crops and herding animals to surveying forest environments and improving sustainability.
Students will gain experience using micro-drones to map environments and monitor horticultural plots in and around the school. Students also examine how drones support surf life saving and search and rescue efforts in Australia and analyse how industry professionals in Australia use geospatial technology and global information systems (GIS). The course fosters STEM skills, creativity, and problem-solving through coding, design, mapping and environmental management tasks.
Through hands-on learning, students will develop skills in data collection, mapping, and spatial analysis using drone imagery and GIS tools. They will investigate how drones can improve sustainability, productivity, and environmental monitoring, and examine the consequences of technological change on rural and forested landscapes.
Learning in this subject can lead to future study or career pathways in geography, environmental science, agricultural science, urban planning, forestry management, geospatial analysis, remote sensing, drone piloting, and environmental consulting. It equips students with highly relevant 21st-century skills in technology, critical thinking, and sustainability.