Grade 9 Design class Field Trip

Last week, our Grade 9 Design class took a field trip to the EXPO Commemorative Park—an outing that blended outdoor exploration with critical thinking and design analysis. Not to be confused with the current EXPO underway, this park is the historic site of the 1970 World EXPO and remains a vibrant space filled with culture, history, and—most importantly for us—playgrounds.

The purpose of the visit was to examine the park’s various playgrounds and play structures through a designer’s lens. As part of our current unit on human-centered design, students were tasked with conducting a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) of the playground equipment they encountered. This exercise encouraged them to think not just as users, but as evaluators and future designers.

Students assessed everything from the safety and creativity of the equipment to how inclusive and accessible the designs were for children of different ages and abilities. They also discussed how the environment—like shade, seating, and flow between play areas—contributes to or detracts from the overall experience.

It was a great opportunity to connect real-world spaces to classroom concepts. Not only did students get a deeper appreciation for the thought that goes into designing public spaces, but they also got to enjoy a day outdoors, explore a historic location, and collaborate with their classmates in a meaningful way.

Trips like these remind us that learning doesn’t always happen inside four walls—and that great design starts with observation, curiosity, and empathy.