As someone who had no background working with GIS or similar software, I managed to get through the course just fine. Its main strength for me was that it was interesting. Otherwise, the way it was taught was less than ideal.

Lecture slides are not very well organized and there can be a lot of going back and forth on concepts. Some of the content didn't even feel relevant to GIS at all. The labs are incredibly useful though, dare I say more useful than the lectures. Even then there was not enough time to spend playing around with the software.

The way Dr. Scott lectures makes it feel like you should already be aware of certain mapping or computer jargon. It is off putting and difficult to grasp when the course is starting out. He seems happy to answer questions when approached. Overall, I have no strong opinions.

Review and annotate lab assignment sheets prior to your lab slot to make the best use of your time with the TAs. Skimming slides before lectures as well.

Attending lectures is a must, or you will fall really behind and not understand anything.