Studying data science to improve educational outcomes

As a teacher at Toowoomba Grammar School, I teach mathematics and business studies, and manage the GPS Chess team. Prior to teaching, I worked as a financial analyst. Recently I have completed a master's degree in science at the University of Southern Queensland. My study was focused exclusively on data science, and I have become an expert in the management of big data with a specialisation in modelling and forecasting using machine learning techniques.

The motivation for this study was because of the identified opportunities to utilise data to assist in the educational outcomes of students. The observed diversity in student needs, coupled with the complex nature of education data sets, prompted me to seek the skill development from the international experts at USQ.

The culmination of my study has been in the successful publication of research paper in the international journal “Health Information Science and Systems” titled “A novel empirical wavelet SODP and spectral entropy-based index for assessing the depth of anaesthesia”. It focussed on the development of machine learning algorithms for determining the depth of anaesthesia in patients during surgery based on real time electroencephalography signal (potential difference due to brain activity). Assessment of the depth of anaesthesia (DoA) is an important and ongoing field of research to ensure patient stability during and post-surgery. This research addresses the limitations of current DoA indexes by developing a new index based on electroencephalography (EEG) signal analysis.

This model employed a variety of novel signal processing algorithms and has demonstrated successful DoA measurement with improved time responsiveness compared to current market leading DoA algorithms in a range of circumstances. This responsiveness is especially evident in cases of high signal interference.

It is a great privilege to have worked with such renowned medical researchers and to have had my own research recognised internationally in this field. I hope that in time this work can be used to influence professionals and assist in the development of medical monitoring devices to ensure more safe operating procedure for patients.

There was some challenge in managing the dual roles of a teacher and student, but this experience has been instrumental in developing a sense of empathy with the students I work with. Regardless of the level, pushing personal boundaries and extending one’s learning is always a challenge and a privilege. On a more practical level, I hope to eventually be able to apply elements of these research methods to student tracking and monitoring algorithms employed at TGS.

You can find Thomas' published research at A novel empirical wavelet SODP and spectral entropy based index for assessing the depth of anaesthesia | SpringerLink

Thomas Schmeirer
Thomas Schmierer



Latest Blog

Old Boys
/
Wednesday, 24 Apr 2024

In memory of Light Horse Field Ambulances

Toowoomba Grammar School would like to acknowledge our admiration for the loyalty, service and bravery exhibited by TGS Old Boys who so valiantly served. We are all the beneficiaries of their sacrifice, and their selfless actions continue to inspire a spirit of service amongst our current students. Today we focus on the contribution of one TGS Old Boy who made a significant contribution to World War I. Here is some of the incredible story of Major Avery, DSO and if you visit the School Museum…

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Wednesday, 17 Apr 2024

New Caledonia, new horizons and travel through an educational lens

The opportunity to travel not only opens doors to new experiences but also fosters an increased intercultural understanding and empathy, both essential qualities for navigating and existing within our diverse world. For a group of language students travelling to New Caledonia, our recent French Language and Cultural Tour was a unique opportunity for such experiential learning, where language acquisition went beyond just learning vocabulary and grammar - and instead became a gateway to connect…

Read More
Sports & Activities
/
Wednesday, 10 Apr 2024

Erik Sheppard - making TGS Army Cadet Unit history

The 2024 Dining in Night was made even more special with the appointment of the first Toowoomba Grammar School Army Cadet Unit (TGS ACU) Regimental Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) Erik Sheppard who was awarded his rank and pace stick by the 16th Battalion Commanding officer MAJ (AAC) Gary MacLachlan. WO1 Sheppard enlisted in the TGS ACU just before the COVID shutdown in 2020. Although this was not the ideal way to begin a cadet career, he was able to adapt and overcome the virtual…

Read More
Teaching & Learning
/
Tuesday, 26 Mar 2024

The Big Six Reading Tips

Unlocking Literacy - The Big Six Elements for Your Child’s Reading Success Literacy skills are a core component of each day for our students, and parents often ask how they can support this from home. I am delighted to share with our parent community the essential components that underpin successful reading development. These elements, known as the Big Six, provide a solid foundation for your son’s literacy journey. These critical building blocks include: Oral Language: Communication skills are…

Read More
Boarding
/
Thursday, 21 Mar 2024

Boarding - Building Men of Good Character

Over the past five years, we have found one of the most valuable lessons that boarding can teach teenage boys is the ability to self-navigate and overcome challenges. Entering a boarding house is the first time many boarders have stepped away from the comfort and security of their parents and guardians. Although this can be a daunting experience, one of the things that this unfamiliarity creates is the ability to organise yourself. With a larger workload than previous years, a greater number…

Read More
Teaching & Learning
/
Wednesday, 13 Mar 2024

The Learning Pit

Learning is at our core and covers all subject disciplines, co-curricular pursuits, personal development and interest areas. Helping our Toowoomba Grammar School boys view learning as a disposition that goes well beyond the classroom context is incredibly important. Learning has a life-long value in all we do. We also acknowledge that learning can be challenging at times, and it can be uncomfortable, but also wonderfully inspiring and fulfilling. Appreciating the full range of feelings and…

Read More
Character & Wellbeing
/
Friday, 01 Mar 2024

Leap Before You Look

The boarding journey offers students a plethora of opportunities to step outside of their comfort zone and take advantage of new environments, relationships, and opportunities during their time at Toowoomba Grammar School. We often talk about “character education” – a theory that originated in the US and has been increasingly embraced by leading schools globally. It is encouraging all students to develop new approaches to their learning, including aspects of morals and ethics, thinking,…

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Tuesday, 27 Feb 2024

Literacy at TGS: A research-informed approach

A recent Grattan Institute report has shared that one-third of Australian students are failing to learn to read proficiently, referring to the situation as a ‘preventable tragedy’. In addition, the report identifies evidence-based approaches utilising structured literacy programs with phonics and explicit instruction as the most effective methods of teaching literacy. At Toowoomba Grammar School, we implement a structured synthetic phonics approach to teaching spelling and reading that…

Read More
Community Engagement
/
Friday, 09 Feb 2024

Past Mothers, Present Supporters

Any Old Boy will tell you the Blue and Gold is part of their blood. They love the history, the traditions, the memories, and the lifelong friends they made during their time at Toowoomba Grammar School. Well, it seems the same can be said for many TGS mums. The Past Mothers’ Group was formed in 1979 by Mrs Mary Campbell who contacted as many past mothers as she could and invited them to meet at her home where the Past Mothers’ Group was officially formed with the intention of retaining links…

Read More