Peter Galante

That Google is the primary academic resource for learning any GIS software package

Basic GIS skills, what components are important to include in a map, how to find data, and different uses of GIS techniques

I learned basic proficiency in QGIS and R spatial analysis.

I learned the basics of navigating QGIS and R.

Don't take this course if you don't have enough space on your laptop to save lots of files.

The description for this course states there are no prerequisites. In practice, teach yourself GIS before taking this 'Intro to GIS' class, you should also brush up on your statistics and have a working knowledge of at least one current programing language to make usable the resources that are actually provided (R is best, but Java or Python would also make this more accessible). If this course is not required for you, don't take it unless it's presence on your CV is priceless. If you're required to take this course, I'm sorry, but seriously teach yourself QGIS and R before take this. To be clear the ONLY significant resource actually provided in this class was robust, in-depth, personalized support in clarifying and trouble-shooting the final project, but the class was no help getting there.

This course was very well organized and generally well taught. However, the online format might make it slightly difficult to follow along with the in-class demonstrations, especially if you only have one screen. That being said, the professor is very patient and always willing to repeat steps to make sure everyone is keeping up. This course is really great for learning the basics of using QGIS but it also promotes skills that can be used outside of a GIS context. For example, we practice finding data and communicating our work through the course project, both of which are important skills for research in general.

If you're looking to learn the basics of spatial analysis using QGIS, take this class. The downside is that the professor is not very enthusiastic about teaching. He does an okay job at making the space comfortable for people to ask questions and interact. He's somewhat understanding during COVID, it just takes a lot of effort to convince him that y'all need help and then he will give you time. He makes it sound like he doesn't want to see you at office hours so I never really got extra help from him.