The best aspect of this course was learning to use GIS software and working hands-on. Students found the textbook and the extra reading material very helpful. The worst aspect of the course was the ineffective lectures, which many found unhelpful to learning the software. Students also expressed dissatisfaction with the final weeks of the course because there was an overload of assignments, projects, and exams all around the same time. What would improve the course was if the lectures were trimmed down and the students had more hands on practice in class. Prospective students should know that the course is very useful and the software learned can be applied to the real world, but they should be willing to put in extra time to really learn the different programs.

The best aspects of this course included the interactive, hands-on experience that students received with the GIS equipment. Some students thought that the lecture portion of the class was a bit long and dry, so fewer or more condensed lectures with more interactive sessions would be helpful. Other students thought that the homework assignments, while useful, could be more engaging if they were not directly from the book. Prospective students do not need a background in geology or GIS systems, but should be wil ing to do the tutorials and ask the professor if they have any questions or concerns.

The best aspects of this course included learning the various techniques in GIS, the interactive learning in the classroom, and the immediate practical use of the program. Students also praised the professor for his fair grading and availability. The worst aspect was the length of the class time. Many students found it difficult to concentrate for three hours and thought more could be covered in a split session class. This was also the most common suggestion for improvement to the course. Students who are planning to enrol should know that the workload was manageable so long as students kept up with the work.