3.3

Brian Duchin

History - Tacoma Community College

3.3
Quality
4.1
Difficulty
34%
Would Retake
130
Reviews
3.3
Quality
4.1
Difficulty
3.0
Helpful
3.5
Clarity

34%

Would Retake

130

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

38

4

31

3

25

2

17

1

19

What Students Say

Overall he is a good professor but a really tough grader

HIST146 - 3.0 rating

Don't wait last min for the research project

HIST146 - 4.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

56%

Textbook Required

75%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 36 grades
Most common grades:
B (9)
B+ (6)
C+ (6)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(11)C(9)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(10)
Based on 42 reported grades
B: 9
B+: 6
C+: 6
A: 4
Common Tags
Tough Grader (17)
Get ready to read (14)
Tough grader (12)
LECTURE HEAVY (11)
Skip class? You won't pass. (11)
Lecture heavy (7)
Respected (6)
Participation matters (6)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.76 avg change
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Jun
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

HIST

5.0

(1)

HST241

5.0

(2)

HST241242243

5.0

(1)

HIST241242

5.0

(1)

USHISTORY

5.0

(1)
+30 more courses
Difficulty by Course

147

5.0

HISTORY243

5.0

HISTORY241

5.0

20THCENTURY

5.0

HIST000

5.0

Reviews (130)
3.0
3.0
HIST241
Feb 16, 2003

No Comments

5.0
4.0
HISTORY
Apr 21, 2003

No Comments

5.0
4.0
HIS240S
Jun 3, 2003

Coolest history prof ever! Brilliant!

5.0
4.0
HIST
Nov 19, 2003

i took three classes from this guy, definatly one of the best teachers i have ever had!

5.0
4.0
HST241
Feb 18, 2004

Very good at what he does. Can teach you all about US History. If you want to learn, take his class.

3.0
5.0
HISTORY243
Dec 27, 2004

He's an interesting professor. But welcome to the world of failing.

5.0
3.0
HST241242243
Aug 9, 2005

test are hard, but he is a great professor, and the class was a lot of fun

5.0
3.0
HIST241242
Aug 10, 2005

Best history teacher I have ever had. Hands down! Some people think there is too much work, but I think that he makes you well prepared for it. The way he lectures and the way he structures his class makes you really enjoy history and look forward to class. Almost made me want to change my major to history, but then what would I do...

4.0
5.0
HISTORY241
Grade: A
Aug 24, 2005

definetly a lecture class but he keeps it interesting.

5.0
4.0
USHISTORY
Aug 31, 2005

No Comments

4.0
5.0
HIST243
Aug 31, 2005

Be careful, he grades on a curve. Like 90% of the class will get a C!! If you want a better grade, you have to be a history buff.

5.0
4.0
240S
Aug 31, 2005

best professor i've ever had!!!

3.0
5.0
20THCENTURY
Aug 31, 2005

No Comments

5.0
4.0
ALLOFTHEM
Sep 5, 2005

He Really knows what he is talking about. I've never had a better prof.

3.0
3.0
HISTORY
Sep 6, 2005

He was really full of himself and insulted me on a couple occasions.

5.0
3.0
NUMEROUS
Sep 19, 2005

the best professor i have ever had in 4 years of college at 2 different schools

5.0
3.0
HST241
Sep 29, 2005

A great lecture-based class. If you don't do well in lecture classes with harder quizzes and tests, don't take anything with him. He makes learning history fairly fun and isn't afraid to interact with his students on a more personal, equal level. If you are rude to him, he will be rude right back though, so treat him the same way he treats you

5.0
5.0
HISTORY
Oct 16, 2005

Amazing teacher, incredibly smart, very straightforward and mature. Difficult classes, you have to actually know the material, but if you listen in classes and skim the reading there's no way you cant pass each test.

2.0
4.0
HISTORY292
Oct 30, 2005

I would never reccomend him for ANY runningstart student! he plays favoritism, is unorganized, unclear, and a HUGE perfectionist. "A" 's are highly unlikly, "B"'s are the same as a normal "A" and a "C" is average.

5.0
4.0
HIST242
Feb 22, 2006

Duchin is one of the best history teachers I have ever had (even though I'm in running start, which I haven't had ANY issues with). His class is tough, but you learn a lot of stuff that's actually useful that you remember. Then, as long as you actually come to class, pay attention, and pay some attention to the reading, you'll pass just fine.

5.0
3.0
HIST221
Oct 11, 2006

I thought Duchin was a great guy. I was a running start student when I had him 2 years ago and I learned so much. I also got an A out of the class- if you study a little and just go to class you can do t after well. And I think he is really fun and an intelligent man therefore he deserves lots of respect.

4.0
2.0
HIST242
Nov 2, 2006

I took 242 and 243 from Duchin and got an A- both times (even though I'm a running start student). Sure, you have to come to class and study a little, but you really learn a lot. He's a very interesting lecturer and as long as you're not a****who thinks you're too good for studying you'll do just fine.

3.0
5.0
HIST241
Nov 11, 2006

No Comments

3.0
3.0
HIS241
Dec 8, 2006

Cool and great at teaching, but when it come to grading, *thumb down.* A is the holy grail in which favorite student keep hidden.

2.0
4.0
HIST242
Jan 5, 2007

not easy to follow in lectures and had no respect for the presidential office of the United States, thumbs down, bad teacher.

1.0
3.0
HIST242
Jan 29, 2007

This teacher taught his version of History. As his student you will be forced to regard many of his opinions as facts. Your experience will vary depending on how well he likes your class as a whole...if he doesn't, then good luck to you!

3.0
5.0
HIST243
Feb 3, 2008

His tests are tough! It would seem that a history degree is a requirement for the class. However, His lectures are TOTALLY Awesome, he is not boring and knows his stuff. So his testing is the only downer, couldn't really be selective with what I memorized.

3.0
3.0
HIST242
Feb 19, 2008

I was really disappointed with this class for the first week or two. The discussions were mostly off-topic and Duchin tried too hard to be funny. I don't know if my expectations for the class have changed, or if the lectures have gotten better (probably both), but I'm enjoying his class now. Challenging tests. Lots of reading.

1.0
5.0
HIST241
Feb 19, 2008

this teacher was so messed up. he tried way too hard to be funny and his lectures didnt even go with the exams. he also picked favorites. he only likes the people who speak up in class and hates running start students. well i hate old people... :)

5.0
1.0
USHIST
Mar 27, 2008

he is the best.

3.0
5.0
HIST243
May 14, 2008

Hmm. Duchin.well,his lectures werent too bad.He does make u read ALOT tho. U have weekly quizzes online & sumtimes questions 4rm the doc. book. Theres a mid term & a final & also a few in class tests. Not a fan of running start students.hates wen u come in late & make distractions.If u LOVE HIST. u should be fine. if u dont, take Comeau Bernard :)

4.0
5.0
HIST243
May 21, 2008

His lectures are interesting and give you a clear understanding of the subject. He is a real tough grader though. I am in my last semester at tcc and have maintained a 3.8 GPA, and i'm getting a c+ in his class. Don't take his class if you want or need to maintain a high GPA.

3.0
5.0
HIST243
Jul 23, 2008

His lectures are interesting and he is sarcastic which can make class fun. However, the sarcasm is not as entertaining when turned on you for asking a question. Extremely hard grader. We were behind in my class, and things were rushed at the end of the quarter and he was not very clear on what we should study, which made things very difficult.

5.0
3.0
HIST243
Jan 12, 2009

I am a HUGE fan of Dr.D People complain about him being hard...it's not hard if you try to succeed in his class. Do the reading and come to class and you'll get a good grade. Work hard on your research project and an A is pretty much guaranteed. It's not that hard people!!

5.0
4.0
HIST147
Feb 27, 2009

Although it is a pretty hard class, Duchin lectures very interesting. I don't know how for other people, but it's hard to get a good grade. You just have to know everything and more to get an A. I'm currently having a B-. Be nice to him, and he'll be nice to you.

4.0
4.0
HIST147
Mar 5, 2009

Knowledgeable, engaging, sarcastic, hard grader. Tests are all short answer/essay and require a comprehensive understanding of material. Hardest class I've taken. Make sure to take detailed notes on his lectures. Don't have him for a teacher if you want a high grade.

4.0
5.0
HIST147
Mar 16, 2009

If you're a person who likes A's, then don't come near this professor. Duchin is the hardest prof. I've had so far. A's are literally sacred to him, and maybe only 1 per class will be given out for an overall. He knows what he's talking about and lectures well, but the difficulty is staggering.

2.0
4.0
HIST147
May 11, 2009

I am a running start student. 1st strike for me in Duchin's book. I took 146 and got a solid C out of it. I tried my best to keep up with the readings(which there was a lot) & attended class everyday(which means nothing to him). He doesn't grade A's and is probably the most empathetic person I've ever met. P.S. Don't get sick. He'll fail you. (147)

4.0
4.0
HIST148
May 12, 2009

LOVED THIS GUY! I'm taking my second class with him, and I don't regret it. He really helped me to love history. I was even planning to major in something that involves history. I got couple of A's on my quizzes and on my research paper. I'm really gonna miss this class.

4.0
5.0
HIST000
Jun 14, 2009

People actually complain that he expects you to be on time, study hard, and read a lot? This is college, hello! He puts an outline of his lecture on the board and is VERY informative and interesting. He teaches as if he were in a university (he has a PhD) so if you can't handle his class, think twice before you go on to your 4 yr school.

4.0
3.0
HISTFILM
Nov 30, 2009

Great lectures, occasional lack preparedness.

3.0
5.0
HIST146
Dec 21, 2009

i am an a student. prior to this class i had a 3.6 gpa. i received three A's this quarter and one E. his. he comes late to class everyday; complains about not wanting to come to class. he lectures about things which dont pertain to the class subject. he is a very harsh teacher who has no sympathies whatsoever. dont take his class if you want to pas

3.0
5.0
HIST146
Dec 26, 2009

HATES RUNNING START STUDENTS. YOU NEED TO READ ALL THE MATERIAL IN ORDER TO DO WELL ON ONLINE QUIZZES. HE EVEN USES PICTURE CAPTIONS FOR SOME QUESTION. GRADES EASY ON FINAL PAPER.

5.0
5.0
HIST148
Jan 4, 2010

Duchin doesn't hate Running Start students, he just doesn't like immature students. I'm a Running Start student and I got along great with him. He has really entertaining lectures, and he made me interested in History. He is a hard grader, but his class is worth it.

1.0
5.0
A247
Mar 12, 2010

Do Not Take this class

5.0
4.0
HIST148
Apr 16, 2010

Amazing prof. Lots to teach and very interesting. Greatest 3 quarters at tcc ever.

4.0
3.0
HIST148
May 25, 2010

He is a great history teacher. The assignments he does not give much information on and quizzes are different. However he is the best at teaching History.

3.0
5.0
HIST148
Jun 1, 2010

Duchin is annoying . Yeah , he can make you laugh sometimes, but he isn't a good teacher when it come to helping you prepare. He has good lectures, but doesn't really tell you what is on the quiz. He can be on the tough side when it comes to grading. I personally don't like him or his class.

3.0
4.0
HIST146
Sep 27, 2010

Not an easy course. Need to keep up with the pace or you'll get left behind. not very accesible for help outside of class. READ, text is not assigned but I recomend it. Learned a lot but didnt do well, very fast paced. Final project extreamly difficult. dont expect assignments on sylibus to stay the same. enthusiastic about subject. Lots of tests.

5.0
4.0
HIST146
Oct 27, 2010

Flat out badass. Very interesting prof. If you are shooting for an A you will have to take insane notes, read everything, and literally study just about every night. not easy, but worth it. Only halfway through the Quarter, but I feel confident. DO NOT skip class.

5.0
5.0
HIST148
Dec 17, 2010

Talk about a silver fox. Brian Duchin is a straight up badass. He made me love history. Hard teacher but worth it. Great lectures. Acts like Dr. House, only a history professor.

3.0
4.0
HIST147
Feb 2, 2011

I thought he was GREAT! He has a nice sense of humor and givesinformative lectures. If you're not in the mood for lectures and work, ask him about his boat or talk about Dancing with the Stars! The only bad thing about him is that he is a really tough grader. One of my papers for his class recieved a C-, when I honestly thought it would get a B!

3.0
5.0
HIST249
Feb 9, 2011

He knows what he's talking about which always helps. But he's a very hard grader. There aren't any freebies to help you pass. It's all difficult work.

2.0
4.0
HIST231
Feb 15, 2011

In class he is funny and the discussions are fun, if a bit condescending. However, I have graduated from TCC with High Honors, and he is without a doubt the worst teacher I have ever had. He knows the material but is unwilling to share, he is disorganized and does not return work, and his grading is harsh and unpredictable. Stay away from him.

2.0
5.0
HIST231
Apr 20, 2011

Worst teacher ever. This is TCC at its best. If he were better he'd be somewhere else. Very unhelpful. This class was supposed to be about the History of the United States through film, but it's a class about the movies that he likes and what he thinks about them. No historical connections drawn.

5.0
4.0
HIST148
May 6, 2011

Dr. Duchin is the best professor I've had at TCC. He is very enthusiastic about what he is teaching, and always keeps your attention. If you are looking for an easy way out, he is probally not for you. If you are willing to put in the work necessary, he is great.

1.0
5.0
HIST231
May 20, 2011

Not a nice person, and not a good teacher. He just rambles on about the same ideas until the time runs out, never really teaching anything about history or film. He draws conclusions from the films that are sometimes far-fetched and always lacking in any evidence. He doesn't appreciate any difference in opinion either. Stay away from this class.

4.0
4.0
HIST148
May 24, 2011

Granted, he is really sarcastic. But he knows his History, and if you show up regularly and read the text, you will do fine. He's nice to all of his students, a bit condesceding but a lot of teachers are. I loved my class with him, and learned a lot.

5.0
3.0
HIST148
Jun 1, 2011

I took every class he taught. A lot of people complain about him, but frankly it's because they're lazy. He expects you to work as hard for him as you would at a university. Very helpful, but wants you to do your own work. Believes you should try because you want to, not because he's forcing you to, so NEVER skip class.

5.0
3.0
HIST231
Jun 14, 2011

Dr. Duchin is amazing! I had him for both HIST 148 and HIST 231. He's humorous and very good at teaching. I learned a lot from him. His class is a toughy, but if you're a dedicated worker who reads and do your work as assigned, you'll do great!

4.0
4.0
HIST148
Jul 5, 2011

Those that complain about his strict rules are those that still believe this is High School where teachers will pass you so they don't deal with you next year. Focus on your point during assignments and you'll get a decent, if not good grade. Don't even think to try and text or do other assignments in class; his aim with a pen is pretty amazing.

4.0
5.0
HIST242
Sep 11, 2011

Great professor. You will have a serious problem with his class if you want a fifth year of high school. If you want to learn History he will teach you. If you have questions, see him during his office hours, because it isn't high school don't be surprised if he doesn't spoon feed you the answer but directs you to where you can find the answer.

1.0
5.0
HIST231
Oct 26, 2011

Here's the thing: I graduated from UW Cum Laude with a History degree. I came back to TCC for my last quarter for math, and took this joke's class. All of the ratings in his favor and that say that dissenters are just "lazy" do not know what a history class looks like. Duchin is the worst teacher I have had in history. Don't take his class.

5.0
5.0
HIST146
Dec 4, 2011

He is a very hard grader. He even says so in his class. He is a pretty good history teacher other than that, is clear, helpful if you ask him for help, well informed. Again if your looking for a good grade this is not the class for it. I was 3.9 student and am currently getting a C+ in this class. -.-...such a big mistake...

5.0
5.0
HIST249
Mar 15, 2012

AWSOME TEACHER! very funny, knowledgeable, and witty, but if you want the grade you gotta do the work. his lectures are interesting and informational, but he doesnt reply to emails, so if you miss class youre S.O.L. if you love history take this class, if you dont, i wouldnt recommend it.

5.0
5.0
HIST138
Apr 18, 2012

Duchin is a very hard grader, with little to no extra credit, and he can seem unpleasant. However, he knows his subject very well, and can defend any opinion or connection he draws. If you're willing to work and pay attention, you will get a lot out of his class.

5.0
3.0
HIST241
Jun 15, 2012

I love Dr. Duchin! He's such a character! He does grade hard, but if you talk to him and show him you care he is more than willing to work with you. He also gives you credit for attending class everyday. I would take him again in a heartbeat!

2.0
5.0
HISTF
Jun 18, 2012

Brian Duchin (his sister is also a professor) is the hardest history teacher ever. He was very funny, but a very hard grader, and his office hours were very unhelpful and seemed annoyed to see students at all. I attended class (more than Dr. Duchin!), started my final project for the class a month early and got an A; still got a B- in the course.

2.0
5.0
HIST146
Dec 18, 2012

I DO NOT recommend this man. I am a straight A student, so when I got my grade from Dr. Duchin I was appalled to find I had received a D+.I am a very hard-working student. I read my whole textbook and did all of the assignments to the best of my ability. I will now have to spend the rest of my college career averaging out what Dr. Duchin created.

3.0
5.0
HISTO146
Dec 18, 2012

Very high expectations, extremely tough class. While explaining assignments he often told my class we were "lazy shiftless and good for nothing" college students. I average a 3.75 gpa and received a C in this course. He does not give outlines, or any information regarding what will be on tests and is an extremely tough grader.

4.0
5.0
HIST146
Apr 25, 2013

Dr. Duchin is a really great teacher if you pay attention in class. He is very personable if you take the time to talk to him after class and he will help you with anything you need. He is a tough grader, but I worked hard and got an A- in the class. Recommended if you want to really learn about American history!

2.0
5.0
HIST146
Oct 18, 2013

I love history and love school. I don't love Dr. Duchin. His lectures are great, but each day is started with a sarcastic comment about how stupid everyone is. I feel bad because i got the joke, I feel worse for the students that didn't know they were being made fun of. He tells students that the dean is his friend and that enjoys failing people.

3.0
3.0
HIST146
Nov 13, 2013

I missed about a week of classes and kept up with the text book and was one of the highest midterm grades on the test. He is tough and makes quite a few crude jokes; however, if you can look past that and focus on the material, he is very wise and knows his history. I advise taking this class for those students who are not too sensitive.

4.0
3.0
HIST146
Dec 12, 2013

He can seem like a jerk but he really isn't. He just does not take bullcrap from anyone and will call you out on it. He knows his stuff. Papers were straightforward and he clearly states what he wants for his assignments. Can't wait for next quarter to continue the series.

1.0
5.0
147
Jan 28, 2014

Dr. Duchin has an ego the size of the united states. He thinks He's right about everything even if the text book say else wise. hes the most condescending person. He hates running start and fresh start students EVEN IF THEY DO ALL THE ASSIGN. i missed one day to his 4 days of missing class and he lacked any sympathy. nor did he try to help me.

5.0
3.0
HIST147
Feb 17, 2014

Hands down favorite professor at TCC. Comes off as a rude person but he really is not. helpful one on one, knows his stuff, makes you earn your grade, be prepared to listen/take notes. He treats you as a COLLEGE student. Assignments and tests are straight forward. If your not willing to work or take things personal DONT take this class.

5.0
3.0
HIST249
Mar 12, 2014

If you're genuinely interested in history, and are willing to put in the work, Duchin is the professor for you. Some may be put off by his sense of humor but he's harmless. He definitely hands out college level assignments that make you dig deep into a topic so, if you're hoping to just cruise through a class, look elsewhere.

4.0
2.0
HIST146
Grade: B+
May 9, 2014

I'm a Running Start student, and Imma tell you right the RS students complaining about him are probably the kids who like to sit in the back of the class and talk because they still think they;re in HS. Got an A- first quarter and a B second, and got all nines or tens on the reading assignments. Don't wait last min for the research project.

5.0
4.0
HIST146
Nov 27, 2014

I learned a lot by taking this class. He gives amazing lectures. He is not an easy-grader (what you put into an assignment is what you get). You have 10 reading responses, 4 quizzes, 1 paper, and a research project. DO NOT wait last minute to do the project. Much nicer when you ask him questions after class. I would take his class again.

4.0
4.0
HIST231
Grade: A-
Dec 16, 2014

Let me be clear about this. Dr. Duchin will rub you the wrong way at times. He does have a passion for film though. This class was very boring to me, but if you love analyzing film then you will enjoy this class. If you put some genuine thought into your film responses, paper options and final paper, you will do just fine. Don't procrastinate...

3.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: B
Mar 9, 2015

Dr. Duchin gets a lot of negative feedback because he is "difficult." He is in fact a great professor. He is entertaining and a cool person. He is very helpful, but only if you go to him. His class demands participation and studying the material that you have covered. If you are looking for an easy A, do not take this class. He makes you work hard.

5.0
3.0
HIST148
Mar 14, 2015

He really is not that hard of a teacher. As long as you go to class and take notes, you'll be fine. His lectures are interesting for the most part and very clear. I would take him again.

4.0
4.0
249
Grade: B
Apr 2, 2015

Here's the thing, Duchin is quite possibly the toughest teacher I've ever encountered in all my years of schooling, but he is a good instructor. Don't expect an easy A, you'll have to work really hard to get through his classes. And even though he doesn't grade on attendance you NEED to show up to every session if you expect to pass.

4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: B
Aug 13, 2015

Amazing instructor. Makes you work for your grade (what you put in is what you get). His lectures were interesting to everyone in the class. Those who say he is a bad teacher are the people that sit in the back of class and don't really care about their grades.

4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: A
Nov 12, 2015

Duchin is such an amazing instructor. He teaches so well, but he's a little hard on the grades. His lectures were very interesting and sometimes during class, he brings his dog with him! Overall, he's a great teacher, you'll learn a lot if you pay attention, and he's a tough grader. DON'T SKIP CLASS. You will miss a lot.

4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: C+
Nov 30, 2015

He is a really cool person but a very tough grader. He has some amazing stories and loves his dogs and sail boats. (He'll give you extra credit on tests if you draw these for him)

3.0
3.0
HISTORY231
Grade: A+
Dec 3, 2015

Great class,some missteps

4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: B+
Jan 8, 2016

Dr. Duchin is my favorite professor at TCC so far. I took History 146 from him last quarter and am in 147 with him this quarter. His lectures are concise and interesting, and his stories are relevant and entertaining. You definitely get the grade you deserve in this class... If you do the work and put in the effort, you will pass.

5.0
4.0
HIST249
Grade: B-
Mar 9, 2016

Prof. Duchin is awesome. He was intimidating at first, but if you talk to him after class about any problems he's really helpful & nice. I took him for HIST249 - expect assigned readings every class from the textbooks. Make sure you write thorough papers & follow his instructions. He gives great lectures. Oh, & he won't put up with your b/s (:

4.0
3.0
HIST231
Oct 20, 2016
Would take again

Professor Duchin is a very enjoyable teacher. I found his class discussions to be enlightening, and his sense of humor definitely added to the overall amazing aura of the class. Because of the discussions and viewings of films in class, it is extremely important that you are present as often as possible. NOTE: I hope you like ballroom dancing!

Gives good feedback
Respected
Participation matters
5.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: C+
Nov 4, 2016
Would take again

Dr. Duchin is by far one of my favorite professors. He has a very dark tone when it comes to humor, sometimes it can come across as offensive ands insensitive. You have to be tactful during class discussions. His lectures are so captivating and detailed. Yes, he's jackass during class, but thats only a character he exudes in class.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Respected
1.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: D+
Jan 30, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He is a very hard teacher doesn't care whether you understand the criteria or not , if you don't get it than thats just how it is. If you're not good with history i would definitely not take his class. He lectures the whole class and expects you caught on with everything he said. In general only take his class if you're good with history

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 7, 2017
Would take again

Duchin is an incredibly... passionate... professor. He is passionate about history, but he sometimes gets derailed by his own thoughts and opinions about students. Unless you tick him off, everything is fine, but if your class does something to make him mad, get ready with tissues and therapy. Nonetheless, he is a good professor for the material.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
SO MANY PAPERS
2.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: C+
May 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Since I took the class during the election period, most of his classes were geared toward him having political rants. So, little talks about the actual content. Woohoo. He's very strict about his grading, but has a cute dog to make up for it.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
5.0
HIST146
Grade: B-
May 16, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Very hard class. He gave passionate and interesting lectures, however, he was a terrible grader and very biased. If you aren't prepared by doing the homework, reading the textbook, or taking notes, you will struggle. I don't think he believes in giving A's.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
HIST231
Grade: Not sure yet
May 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I do not suggest taking his class for a humanities credit. He gives an essay every week, two large papers, 3 out of class quizzes, a research project, and a take home final. You DO NOT need to read the book only use it to get the quotes for the quizzes. He tries way too hard to make you "think" with the papers and makes you question your sanity

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
SO MANY PAPERS
4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: A-
Sep 6, 2017
Would take again

This class requires lots of critical thinking abilities and analysis writing. These are important skills and students who focus on acquiring and expanding their skillset will benefit much more than student who just submit assignments for the grade. I was a few student who got the highest grade - an A-. It took lots of time and research and thinking

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
HIST146
Nov 7, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Overall he is a good professor but a really tough grader. If you are normally an A student, don't expect to get that in this class. He doesn't use canvas either so you have to figure out your own grade. He gives good feedback if you go to him during his office hours but not much on assignments handed back during class

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
HIST231
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2017
Would take again

Possibly the easiest A I've ever gotten. All I did was show up every class, participate in discussions, read a little, and completed all my assignments by simply answering the questions he asked and taking notes during lecture. The Duch will not hesitate to call out childish behavior or violators of class rules (no cell phones!) Great speaker.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Would take again
1.0
5.0
HIST146
Grade: B
Feb 21, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Would avoid at all costs. In my experience, I felt he had no respect for students and was often rude and condescending. He is also a tough grader with nearly impossible expectations for a good grade. Only gives a few (hard) assignments, expects classroom participation, and will yell at anyone who packs up early.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: B+
Mar 5, 2018
Would take again

You definitely have to work hard to get a good grade in this class. He will like your class only if you answer the questions he asks in class and you do the readings. You can also delay the lectures most days by talking to him about politics. He's a great guy and loves history, but he has high expectations so if you're lazy don't take this class!!

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
5.0
HIST147
Mar 12, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This Professor likes to grade your first assignment and then give you the same grade on every assignment that follows.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: B+
Mar 16, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Every class is a lecture, no student input or discussion. You must go to class everyday or you will miss important material. I took about 3-4 full pages of notes everyday. There were 4 "quizzes" which had essay questions. So you have to literally memorize every piece of information he teaches. There was one research project and a final essay.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
HIST147
Grade: C
Apr 2, 2018
Would take again

He's a good teacher, but for me, a foreigner, who doesn't know much about US History, it was quite tough class. He doesn't use Canvas at all. In order to know what homework you gotta do, you should be in class everyday. You also don't know your grade for the whole quarter. Nevertheless, he's the best history teacher at TCC.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: A
Apr 11, 2018
Would take again

Best professor at TCC by far. The lectures are intriguing and interesting to listen to, he holds you accountable for doing outside readings and on occasion brings his dog to class. He is a tough grader, but if you do the work and get help (if needed) you will be fine. Duchin is an amazing professor and is really funny you wont regret taking him

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Respected
4.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: B+
Apr 26, 2018
Would take again

Don't believe all the negative reviews, Dr. Duchin is wonderful. He makes history very interesting and updates you on current politics as well. If you're running start don't expect to get away with acting like this is a high school class. He has high expectations but is very clear on what he expects. Pay attention and listen and you'll do okay.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
HIST146
Oct 24, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Don't do it.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
HIST146
Nov 11, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Grades SO hard. Never seen him give him an A. Does not give me ANY commentary back on my papers (not helpful) BUT! His lectures are absolutely AMAZING! I get completely wrapped up in the story he tells about history and I completely understand and get so interested in what were talking about. I used to hate history, now I love it because of him.

Tough Grader
Amazing lectures
Get ready to read
1.0
5.0
HIST146
Dec 3, 2018
Wouldn't take again

In general Brian is a nice individual, BUT and I repeat BUT he is the worst professor I have ever had. He gives you no study guide so you go into the test blind unless you reread all the passages (50 pages) and 9/10 things you read arent even on it. Ive asked him before a test if a specific info was on it and he said no: the test was mainly on it

Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: A-
Dec 8, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Duchin is an exceptional professor. I've never found history more fascinating. He speaks his mind. If he talks about politics, oblige him. Pay attention. Don't be scared off by his sarcasm and biting comments. He's a teacher that commands (and deserves) respect, but respects you back by passionately giving his utmost in lectures.

Tough Grader
Respected
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: C
Dec 18, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Duchin isn't as bad as some people on here make him out to be. He has a very dry, sardonic sense of humor and doesn't appreciate people who just mess around. His coursework expectations are straightforward yet high. The only thing I personally didn't like about the class was that he started off most lectures with a 20-minute political rant.

Respected
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: B
Jan 5, 2019
Wouldn't take again

He was interesting. Very tough grader. I worked so hard and spent so much time out of class and I only got a B. I would not recommend.

Tough Grader
SO MANY PAPERS
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
HIST249
Grade: Not sure yet
Jan 18, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Grading is VERY subjective with no clear criteria given before hand. I would really think twice about taking a class with him.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
3.0
HIST241
Grade: Audit/No Grade
Jan 30, 2019
Would take again

I am currently taking his 249: American foreign policy class. First of all, I love Dr. Duchin. I love his personality and I love his teaching style. Hes a pretty straight forward person and you know what your getting. He is really passionate about history and teaching his students. Hes definitely one of those professors you remember after TCC

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Inspirational
4.0
4.0
HIST147
Grade: B+
Feb 24, 2019
Would take again

He is actually a great professor. He is passionate about what he teaches and it really shows. He doesnt ask for too much of his students (homework wise) but he is a tough grader. Just dont piss him off, take notes, study, and turn in all the assignments and hell be pleasant

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HIST146
Mar 8, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I would not advise taking a class with this professor. His lectures are uninteresting and there is little to no preparation for the quizzes/papers. Duchin makes his opinions very decidedly and does not treat his students with respect. His grading policies are rather unclear and he does not use Canvas.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HIST147
Mar 8, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Thinking about taking a class with him? Just DON'T DO IT. He gives no clear grading criteria for any assignments other than the final research project, decides to do important tests on random days with little to no heads-up and no canvas page, talks about random useless things in class, and berates students. Made me cry several times after class.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
3.0
HIST147
Grade: Audit/No Grade
Apr 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Professor Duchin gives wonderful lectures and he is very passionate about history. However, I did find pretty much every lecture fairly boring and he does not offer many visuals or presentations for notes. He goes on tangents a lot which can be distracting. Do you love history? Take this class. Hate history? DO NOT. very boring and unclear.

1.0
5.0
HIST147
Apr 30, 2019
Wouldn't take again

So so bad.

Tough grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
So many papers
2.0
5.0
HIST231
Grade: Not sure yet
May 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Essays on 2 films every week, 2 major papers, 1 research project, 4 quizzes from 2 textbooks and a final exam. He doesn't use Canvas. The textbooks are only vaguely relevant to the class. He will not sympathize if you don't attend his class. Non-existent grading criteria. Crippling workload. Your life will be miserable. -From a 4.0 English student.

Lots of homework
So many papers
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: C+
Jun 17, 2019
Wouldn't take again

While Dr. Duchin gives possibly the best lectures out of any professor at TCC, he is also one of the toughest graders. He spends the first fifteen to twenty minutes of class complaining about Donald Trump, and then spends the remainder of class lecturing. Furthermore, he hates running start students. Do not waste your time and money on this class.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
HIST146
Nov 5, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Duchin is passionate about history, but he is also a tough grader. It seems almost impossible to get an A in his class, even if you study and do your best on all of the work. The research project is confusing because he does not talk about it in class, just expects you to do it because it is in the syllabus.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: B
Dec 19, 2019
Would take again

HIsT146 was the best course I've taken because of B. Duchin's humorous, satirical lectures. Grading is fairly tough and nobody should expect above a B+ without working their ass off. Best part was watching the professor call people out for screwing off during lectures. Definitely take him if you like satire and always make it to class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: C+
Jan 2, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Professor is pretty nice, he may seem super strict but just be ready to read and pay attention. He's lecture heavy which means take notes in class. Hes also a tough grader, you'll have 3 paper options and please please, choose the 1st one. Classes starts to pile up get it done sooner than later. SI sessions are essential.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
HIS146
Grade: B
Feb 7, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He has good lectures, besides the first 20 mins reserved for ranting about whatever he feels that day. Take good notes if you take this class and attend the SI sessions (the only reason I got a B). You really have to study for the in-class quizzes because they are like mini essays. By no means is this an easy A, he grades tough.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
HIST146
Grade: A-
Feb 20, 2020
Would take again

Hilarious lectures must attend class to pass.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
HIST147
Grade: C+
Mar 19, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst professor at TCC. Do not take his class if you are doing running start. Prepare to listen to off-topic rants followed by a lecture every day for the whole quarter.

1.0
4.0
HIS241
Grade: B
Jun 14, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Brian Duchin was a non-stop talker and was rude to students. His boring lectures took up all of class time and he would rant about politics. I did not enjoy his class and almost fell asleep every day. Do not take his class if you can help it.

Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HIS241
Grade: C
Jun 14, 2020
Wouldn't take again

One of the worst professors I have ever had. He teaches by giving boring lectures where he often goes off on rants or tangents. He does not use Canvas so you have to keep track of all your grades if you want to know how you are doing in his class He is a jerk to students because he can since he has tenure. Not a good guy and an even worse prof.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
HIS240S
Grade: B
Jun 19, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He refuses to fall on his sword and if you disagree with him at all, he'll give you a C. He delegates too much responsibility to his TA and often has discussion questions that are weeks late.

Tough grader
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

56%

Textbook Required

75%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 36 grades
Most common grades:
B (9)
B+ (6)
C+ (6)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(11)C(9)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(10)
Based on 42 reported grades
B: 9
B+: 6
C+: 6
A: 4
Common Tags
Tough Grader (17)
Get ready to read (14)
Tough grader (12)
LECTURE HEAVY (11)
Skip class? You won't pass. (11)
Lecture heavy (7)
Respected (6)
Participation matters (6)
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