4.3
Quality2.7
Difficulty76%
Would Retake173
Reviews76%
Would Retake
173
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
116
4
28
3
10
2
11
1
8
What Students Say
“The worst teacher I have ever had (including highschool)”
ANT140 - 1.0 rating“I have no idea how this guy has such amazing ratings”
ANT140 - 2.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
30%
Textbook Required
18%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
A-
Grade Distribution
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Declining
-0.63 avg changeRatings by Course
140
5.0
(4)ANTHR130
5.0
(3)ANTRH130
5.0
(1)ANTRO140
5.0
(1)ANTRO120
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
ANTH121
4.0
ANTRO140
4.0
ANTHR1L
4.0
ANTHR141L
4.0
ANTHRO140
3.3
Reviews (173)
Mr. Mercer was very passionate about the subject matter and highly accessible to his students. However, the course lacked organization and direction. Over 60% of lecture periods consisted of watching videos. Additionally, his exams, lecture slides, and study material were rife with spelling and grammatical errors. Not a college-level course.
Since he does not lecture from the textbook, you need to be in class to do well. Not a lot to memorize, but you need to be able to compare and contrast a lot of stuff. Good for the education, but keeps you on your toes. I like his style, very passionate, so I'm taking him for 140 in the fall.
Good lecturer and not boring. Covers a lot of materials on Zombies, Werewolves, etc., so it was interesting. No big term papers. I would take this prof for a another class.
He's very helpful! If you struggle early on and talk to him about it he WILL help you get an A in the class. He cares about his students and also the material, my only problem is that he doesn't completely cover everything in the book. Nonetheless, you end up coming out of the class having learned a lot more.
he is AMAZING! i thought anthropology was hard but it was easy learning about anthropology with him. he has all the slides online which makes the class way easy. BUT his lectures are very BORING and he makes you read lots of bookS. however, he doesn't mind if you sleep in class:D
Good lectures. All ppts available to download. Exams mostly multiple choice and some short answers. No term paper, but there is an ethnography assignment, but can do it in an hour.
He is a great teacher. So far the best anthropology prof at DVC. Course material is really interesting, and not too difficult to understand. Got to register early cause his classes fill fast.
Have to interact a lot in class. The prof keeps tabs on participation, so if you take him you can't snooze.
I took the lab class for physical anthropology with Prof. Mercer. He is a nice teacher but the class is a bit disorganized. If you can look past that, you will do fine. Mercer is very helpful & wants you to succeed. Tests were not easy, but he grades on a curve so that is helpful. Overall, I recommend taking a class with Prof. Mercer.
Good lab all around. Prof is super helpful. Can't blow off tests, they are kind of hard, but curved, and the labs assignments count for a lot of the grade so its fair in the end. I would take Mercer for another class if I have the opp.
Chirs is the best Anthro teacher at DVC! He doesn't take role and 30% of the class got an A. 60% got a B. To get a C or lower you have to not turn in work and not take him up on his offer to make up the work. He is by far the most passionate Professor Ive met and he will enlightened you beyond the scope of the class. This man lives to help students
Its hard to rate him because I took his anthro 120 class that he co-taught with Steve Johnson who stole the show bout 80% of the class. When Professor Mercer did teach us though he was absolutely amazing. so passionate and wonderful! I really enjoyed hearing him lecture!
Very, very nice guy. professional, passionate in his lectures.
Mercer is a great teacher! He is very passionate about teaching Anthropology and really wants students to succeed and do well in the class. He gives a TON of extra credit because only the tests count towards your grade so if you don't do well on them you have the opportunity to raise your grade.I strongly recommend taking him for Anthropology!
Professor Mercer really made the class enjoyable. Exams were kinda hard but he curves them so its fair in the end, and lots of extra credit if you want to get a better grade. I also liked the review sessions that most profs don't make time for. Also, open book and notes final exam.
I took Mercer at Napa Valley College. He's one of the headrest professors I've ever had, but he's also one of the most passionate. His tests are challenging - you MUST study and you MUST read the books he assigns. He says that the cultural anthropology text book isn't required, but I still got it and I found it extremely helpful. Great Professor!
Solid teacher. I learned more in his class than I did in other classes I've had so far. He's not big on textbook use, so you have to be in class to do OK. Tests are kinda hard but they are curved. He says he makes them a little difficult to get us ready for universities in case we want to go. I'm taking his lab in the Spring without hesitation.
Mr. Mercer is a really good lecturer. Got into a lot of really interesting psychology that I didn't expect. Most of the readings and all of the lectures are online to download, so won't need to buy a bunch of books. 175
This professor is really good at revving things up. He's a really funny guy, especially when he paces back and forth arguing against himself. Lots of extra credit ops, and exam are curved.
I took Mercer for an anthro class covering Magic, witchcraft and religion, and he was really into the subject and made the class interesting. Had easy to follow powerpoints, he can move through them pretty fast but will go back if asked. Super chill and easy going, he lead some really good discussions, attendence recommended but not mandatory.
Teacher, humanitarian, and friend.
Chis Mercer Is AMAZINGGG!! I would take every class he taught if i could. He is a hilarious and very fascinating instructor, I highly recommend him. Take his class seriously though because he is a tough grader he makes you work for your grade, If you show up, participate in his class and show him you take his class seriously he will pass you.
Alright guys first off, lets put it this way if you miss a lecture you will fail. you have to go to class and pay attention. if you happen to miss a class he has his slides online, but you'll miss out on his hints for the test. no study guide at all. because he will tell you "this is on the test", he's not like most teachers. He will help you pass.
I can tell you 1 thing from this guy, you WILL regret it if you didn't take him! He's so fantastic and his lecture is very interesting as well. He will explain all of the materials to you crystal-clear and even he's very helpful with your grades. He curves all of the 3 midterms which will help you A LOT! Final is an essay and it's fair as well.
Mercer makes you work for it. Beware that his lectures can be drawn out, but they are always interesting. Be sure to take good notes and start working on your papers as soon as they are assigned. You'll be glad you did. Overall, Mercer knows what he's talking about and is professional about it.
Time goes by fast in class because Mercer's lecture are really good. Lecture are posted online which is really helpful. Exams were kinda hard but he curves them. Felt I got a fair shake in grading. Also relates to us well, not stuffy.
Great teacher, he actually cares about what he's teaching us and is funny referring to movies and stuff quite often but doing a great job keeping us entertained
Professor Mercer goes above and beyond other teachers in my experience at DVC. He is very funny and the discussions in his class are great. He is extremely knowledgeable. Do your reading and ask the questions you have.
He's a super chill guy. Took him for a summer course. Everyday there's reading, 2 papers, 1 hw paper, 2 finals. 1 final was questions based on reading 5 questions. Other was take home final with comparecontrast questions. Would've got an A if given more time to do the final reading. Easy A if u go to class and try. There's EC too! He's nice
Mercer is an awesome professor. Super dynamic and passionate about his subject. Took him over summer and really didn't mind that I had to sit in his class four hours twice a week. Make sure you go to class, because all the tests are based of lectures. Super easy and chill class, and also really interesting.
He makes class fun even when the material can be extremely dry. He makes a joke pretty much every other sentence, while still being serious and passionate about the material. He's an easy grader and very understandable. He prefers to lecture and teach rather than call on students and demand correct answers.
He really knows what he's talking about and is very passionate about his subject. He's very funny and keeps the class interesting. If the class does poorly on an exam is will most likely curve. He really cares about his student.
One of the more interesting classes I've taken. Mercer is a good lecturer, but you got to take good notes if you want the A.
Very interesting class. If you want an A, you have to study and take good notes. Great teacher and i really have nothing against him. I would take his class again.
He's a really chill guy and his lectures are actually interesting and easy to follow. He doesn't take attendance and grades easily. If you come to class you'll get an A and if you never show up to class you'll at least get a C.
At the start of the semester, I was seriously considering dropping this class. However, I stuck with it and am very pleased that I did. His use of lecture, videos, assignments and textbooks was very informative. I would absolutely take another class with Professor Mercer.
Dope class. Mercer knows what he's talking about and he's kinda nutty in a good way. Tests are hard but curved and Mercer drops lowest score. All round a good experience.
It was a pleasure to take Professor Mercer's Anthropology class. He is a good lecturer and he always knew how to make class interesting. Tests are tough but he curves them! He also does review sessions before every test, what a nice guy. Take his class, you will LEARN.
I'm in the middle of the term and talked with peeps that had Mercer before. Agree that he's rad, totally serious but edgy. I t he gets us and knows what we need. Just took the first exam and was hard but it's curved. Mercer does this to prepare us to go on. Really one of the few professors that i give total respect.
Mr. Mercer is awesome!
If he didn't think he was the greatest thing since sliced bread he'd be one of the best teachers I've ever had. But he often goes off topic to criticize other scientists to the point in which you're not sure what are facts that are legit and facts that he would criticize. All tests are curved a lot, lowest is dropped. About 35 points of EC
Mercer's class was good. About the usual reading wise and he grades fair. There are some extra credit ops and a he drops your lowest midterm. I think I learned more in his class than most I've taken. I'de take another class from him fo sho.
Professor Mercer was by far the best intructor I've ever had. His class is extremely interesting, and though he doesn't require attendance, those who attend have an advantage over those who don't on tests. If you pay close attention to his lectures, you'll do well, you hardly need to pick up the textbook. Great class, would take again.
I took his 3 week summer class and it was really intriguing. He curves everything and his lectures are really interesting. He really knows he's material and is really passionate about it. He's really funny too. You'll miss out if you don't take this professor.
loved his class. I almost switched to anthro bc he was so inspirational. Honestly you take away so much more about the world then just human evolution
Totally hilarious. Fun. Not an easy A, but worth taking if you want to actually learn. Tough grader, but curves heavily. Attendance is not mandatory, but the lectures are important. You do need to read the books. Offers huge extra credit. First 2 exams are multiple choice, 3rd exam is a take-home report, final is open-book, open-notes blue book.
After taking this class you will be woke. Your eyes will opened because this professor tells it to you straight and tries his best to relate to you. He understands his students and he wants you to pass
His passion for anthro is only surpassed by his obsession with himself, but hey, I came here to learn, not be friends with the guy. Again, knows his stuff and can be effective if you sift thru the monologues and tangents.
Not fond of him at first, but throughout the semester I've learned to enjoy his quirks. Gives great feedback on questions. His ideology is steeped in science but he keeps an open mind, be ready to reciprocate. his retrospection is invaluable, you'll have to take him to findout why.
Mercer's about the best profs I've had so far. Lectures are always interesting and he's got good comedic timing. Class goes by so fast, it only seems like them minutes. Don't expect an easy A though, you have to work for it but he is always willing to help you if you want to do better. I'm going to remember him for a long time.
Honestly one of the funniest college profs I've ever experienced. He includes a bit of harsh but hilarious humor into his lectures and it makes the class and material itself more enjoyable. Definitely not an "easy A" teacher, so he'll make you work for your grade, but he offers extra credit throughout the semester so you'll be fine.
Knows the material and knows how make the information easy to understand for the students
He is a good teacher if you are willing to come to class and listen to what he says. It's hard to always pay attention because he's pretty opinionated, but his tests are all lecture-based. Four tests, some of them are take home. Extra credit opportunities are available. Willing to work with students if you meet with him. Nice guy, pay attention
Grading is based on four exams, but he drops the lowest one, and there are two extra credit ops. Mercer's lectures are always good and he's a funny guy. Have to attend class because the first three exams are based mostly on lectures. I missed the first midterm and got CA make-up exam without a lot of hastle; he is a nice guy.
Mercer is a hilarious and outgoing instructor who definitely keeps his lectures interesting. You do need to show up because the exams are based on the lectures and not so much the books. He is a little unorganized with his powerpoints and videos, but just take lots of notes! I either have a B or A, but I put lots of effort into this class.
Mercer was great- super friendly and knowledgable about what he was teaching. At first I thought he was odd, but his personality grows on you throughout the semester. Grading consists of 3 exams and one final exam. Lowest score is dropped, and one of them is a take home. Showing up to class is pretty helpful- and tons of extra credit offered.
Part genius, part wildman, and the rest humanitarian - Mercer is a great teacher. But ya can't miss class too much cause most of the exams are from his lectures. There were 4 exams, he drops the lowest of the first three, but not the final. But the final is open book, note, and you can go online. No writing assignments, but exam 3 is a take home.
Mercer is great. The grade is based off of two tests and a final, though he gives you two options for extra credit. I thought I wasn't going to ace this based off of my test grades, however I did both EC, which I think must have done it. Do the extra credit and establish a good relationship with him!
Knowledgeable teacher, but he's very offensive. Injects way too much of his personal life and ego into the classroom. Spent as much time talking about his ex-girlfriends as he did teaching. Each exam had a different format and no study guides were provided.
Overall a great class. Highly recommend.
Mercer is a pro teacher. He is very real and I got the feeling he really cares about us. It wasn't the easiest class and I busted b for the final but I learned a lot. A good experience all together. Make sure to do the ec assignments early, they are not that easy.
Professor Mercer was just awesome. I got a brother at Cal that took the same class last semester and I know for a fact that I know more than him on the subject. Mercer is a big picture kind of teacher and those that learn this way gonna really like him.
Only science class so far that I ever looked forward to. Not for Fox News diciples or sheltered types. Good prof; Mercer attacks old, worn ideas with solid evidence and challenges us to build a better world than his own generation. First MT is a killer, the rest not too bad, lowest score is dropped. EC assignments saved me, highly recommend doing.
Give me some bad news, this is how he will start every class. Mercer is blunt and an entertaining professor. No homework, his class is based off four tests, of the first three the lowest is dropped. He is very open minded and opinionated, you will find yourself spending most of the class sitting through long videos and listening to him lecture.
While Mercer lectures a lot, he breaks things up with good jokes. I got to know him some during office hours and think he is a very kind guy and he's really liberal. You need to take good notes to do well cause most tests are from his lectures. He is definitely inspiring and Im actually thinking about majoring in anthro.
If anyone deserves a spotlight in educational anthropology, it's Chris Mercer.
I feel I know Mercer's family. He always "takes a jab" at his daughters and ex-wife's every class period. Wants to hear bad news at the start of class. 3 midterms, lowest dropped, curves. 1 final exam that is open book, open notes, open computer. His first midterm is a killer. Midterm 2 takes a lot of time. Offers extra credit
Mercer is the best professor I've ever encountered at DVC. He makes lectures engaging and informative, and if you pay attention and take notes, you don't even really have to study for the tests. He is inspirational and because of his Anthro 140 class I decided to become and anthro major. He will inspire you to question things and think critically.
3 midterms, lowest gets dropped. Curves multiple choice exams. Final 2 essay questions. Offers extra credit (ESSENTIAL). I did not use the textbook but the other book required, "The Story of the Human Body" (essential for the last midterm and final). Important to take notes on all chapters required of "The Story of The Human Body".
He is a nice guy and offers tons of extra credit, and curves hella on exams. Easy to get an A, but he is kinda wacky. Doesnt prepare you for his exams at all, he is too relaxed(Not in a good way). He doesnt tell you if reading from the textbook will help or not. No review of any kind. Talks about all these conspiracies and weird stuff.
Mercer is a very good teacher. He challenges us to build a better world based of scientific facts. About the usual work for a class. There are four exams, but he drops your lowest score and the final is open everything. There are two extra credit ops that aren't too hard to do. He's in my top three list so far of best professors.
Mercer is an entertaining and knowledgeable professor. He's also super friendly and will help you if you need it. To do well have to take good notes. The main text is The Story of the Human Body; get a head start on it and you'll be good. There are four exams, but he drops your lowest score.
Taken at BCC. He's a nice and funny guy but he's a little full of himself. Lectures are very long and we sometimes watch videos. He's sometimes unclear on what we need to know/do. Exams can be very difficult, but they are curved. Decent amount of reading and HW. EC is offered. Can be taken P/NP. Openly liberal if that matters to you.
Awesome professor and fellow UC Davis Aggie! Very inspirational with all of his lectures and has definitely changed my outlook on the world. His exams can be intimidating when there is no study guide or specific sections he wants you to study. If you go to his class everyday and pay attention, class will be easy. His jokes will make your day!
I took his 3 weeks summer class. You just sit there and listen to his lecture all day, but he gives us breaks every hour or so. Tests are HEAVILY graded in this class, so be sure to take good notes.
Great teacher and the subject is very intense. I don't recommend to take this class during the summer session; because it's a lot of material in such little time. He gives 2 exams and the final is for us to answer 2 question in the blue book. The questions are not easy and required a lot of information about the what his lectures. Be prepared.
May be the best person and teacher I ever had. Mr. Mercer is not easy, you got to work for the A, but I learned more than I thought I would. I took the intersession version, may be easier with regular term
So good. Just switched majors from business to anthro because Mercer is awesome. Exams are NOT easy, but he gives you the final questions ahead of time and its open notes, open computer. His jokes made my day an got me through some of the dry stuff.
Chris is the guy who literally knows everything about his field but is still an average guy who knows that it can be hard. He will work with you on what ever you need and wants his students to succeed !! If classes weren't so costly I would take his class again !! He made me looking forward to learning about the evolution of primates :)
The worst teacher I have ever had (including highschool). He does not tell you what is on the test and his lectures go in so many tangents taking notes is almost impossible. When I tried to get help he never responded to my emails. Others in my class feel the same. I am truly confused how he has so many good reviews. Don't take a class from him.
I have no idea how this guy has such amazing ratings. His class isn't too hard, but its almost not worth it to go when he only jokes about his daughter and ex girlfriends throughout the class time. Semester is almost over and I haven't learned much about anthro. It's clear that he knows the material very well, but lectures are too scattered.
Good class overall. Need to take good notes to do well. Not a class you can blow off because most of his exam questions come from lectures. Second midterm is a take home but you have to work for the A.
Mercer is a good hearted and entertaining professor. I have a lot more respect for science in is class. He offers a lot of extra credit that you might need to get a good grade. 4 exams and he drops the lowest score. Big negative is you really have to go to class cause notes are important.
It is a high interactive class. Mr. Mercer has a lot of energy, and cares a lot for his students. He tends to go off topic a lot, but it still somehow manages to relate to the original objective of the class. Get ready to think critically, and analytically. It is not a traditional class.
Class went in a lot of directions I didn't expect for anthropology. Learned a bunch more than I thought I would about evolution and people. Going to miss Mercers personality. First exam is way hard but it's curves and the rest not too bad. Final is open book/note and you get the questions ahead of time.
Great class, highly recommend. Not too much textbook use, but there is a main reader that the final exam focuses on, but its open book and open note. There are two extra credit opps.
I really enjoyed Mercer's class. I don't really have a lot of interest in anthropology but his jokes and teaching style made it fun and as interesting as it could for me. Grade is based on four exams, one is take home and one is open book. He drops your lowest score. There are a couple of extra credit assignments if you need it.
Professor Mercer is not a A 1 kind of teacher, he is like A can 1 or 2, or 3 depending on how you look at it. Some kids I heard didn't like the critical thinking part of the class, but it really helped me see how science can work. Exams are not that easy and take a lot of time to study for to do well but you learn. He is a funny guy.
Professor Mercer is not a A is 1 kind of teacher, he is like A is 1 or is 2, or is 3 depending on how you look at it. Some kids I heard didn't like the critical thinking part of the class, but it really helped me see how science can work. Exams are not that easy and take a lot of time to study for to do well but you learn. He is a funny guy.
I had a great time in Mercer's class. He doesn't take role past the first week but its a good idea to show up as much as you can. He has powerpoint slides available but notes are essential. Nice guy, very understanding.
Took during summer and passed me so cant complain. Hes gets really into whatever hes talking about. There is reading maybe max of 50 pages per class meeting. Basically do the readings and show some interest/participate in discussions and you could probably at least pull a B. Had a couple short papers 2 pages each and midterm and final
The subject was more interesting than I though it would be at first. Mr. Mercer really brought the class to life. He was consistent and always knew what to expect. Reading is about the average amount. 3 midterms and a final. The lowest score is dropped. Final is open everything. You can boost your score up one letter grade doing the extra credit.
Mercer is one of the only professors I've had at DVC that I've not enjoyed. His lectures are super haphazard and he just rambles his opinions throughout the semester. Read the textbooks and try to pick out the main points from his in-class lectures to do well on the exams. I ended with an A, but I'm still not sure how that happened. Good luck!
The professor is a good lecturer. Exams were fair and a few. extra credit assignments. All exams are curved and the lowest one is dropped. Good notes are essential as most exam material comes from them.
If you ever read these things Professor Mercer, thanks for an awesome semester!
I really loved this class. It was an easy A but I also learned a lot. There is an main book you have to read closely, but you don't have to read all of it, but the tests have pretty specific questions that arent answered in the lecture so I highly suggest doing the reading. There is 3 midterms, a final, 2 extra credits. Pulled an A doing the EC's.
My first review ever...I have to leave one for Mercer. Hands down one of the best professors I've had. Made class extremely interesting, which made learning the material pretty easy. Take this class, you won't regret it!
Now I understand why folks were saying to listen to his lectures. His tests are literally his lectures and videos he shows in class, in paper format! This means you have to be 100% attentive & it also means his tests are super easy. Drops lowest test, one test was take home. Easy A/B. Good luck!
He's awesome! So inspirational and such a smart and kind professor. He wants and cares for his students, he wants his students to learn and do well. His test are 100% what he does in class, so pay attention. But he's so inspirational and you will learn from him! Take him!
Don't miss out on taking Professor Mercer's class. Only took 3 exams (2 multiple choice and final is two written questions). Tests are very straight forward and were not difficult. Everything you need to know is in his lectures and the book about the human body. He makes the class interesting and fun by telling MANY stories.
It's not mandatory to show up to class however, you won't do well on the exams if you do not show. His exams are based off lectures and videos. Fortunately, he will curve if there was a low average. He talks kinda fast so it's hard to take notes on your own sometimes but his lectures were interesting and funny. Overall, great class though!
Awesome guy! Just show up to class and you'll be fine, as a lot of the test questions are lecture based. But also read the handouts and books. Sit in the front tho cuz he doesnt project and can talk fast - it will make the experience much better. He's very passionate about what he teaches and inspirational. Not to mention pretty funny!
I got an A in his class but I hope i never have to see or hear from him again. Projects his opinions onto you and get defensive when object to them, in other words he has to be right. The lectures were boring so much in fact I would just voice record and get notes from friends.
DON'T TAKE MERCER B/C 1. No study guides. 2. Test's are not on lectures, all on out of class reading material. 3. Lectures OFTEN interrupted to tell anecdotes about his dating life- hard to take notes because of this. 4. Does not use canvas. 5. Tries too hard to be relatable (you'll study hard and they'll be a Q about Justin Beiber on the test.)
A nice guy, but scattered and projects his personal opinion onto you. NOT clear what so ever the material that is going to be on the test versus what he actually lectures on. There is no study guide given or even a list of things to study. He does give lots of extra credit, grades on major curves, and drops lowest test score, but a still a pain.
kinda overdoes it when he talks about his personal life. Too much information... and he feels strongly against one particular belief which if he says he accepts "all" people, don't know why he can't be accepting of others beliefs. Otherwise, he does want you to pass the class, just study the lecture slides, and theres extra credit
Mercer is very passionate about the subject matter and I was never bored. I really though the class was going to be a blow off at first but it really turned out to be really good. He is fair and a nice guy. Most of the exams are from lecture so you have to take good notes. Suggest doing the extra credit opps and can get you a whole grade ahead.
Very entertaining professor and he knows his stuff. He doesn't take role but you can't really skip class and do Ok. Have to take good notes for the A. Final is a take home but recommend get started on it asap. Class made me really think about like and appreciate this professors slant on life.
Not the easiest class, it was super interesting. Professor is kinda out there in a good way. His style is really unconventional but it was good to have a prof that's real. Hit him up during office to do good on exams and loads of extra credit too.
Mercer can get a little preachy once in a while but he really knows his stuff and is funny. I'm glad I took his class and will remember it for a long time. First couple of exams are multiple choice and not that east but he drops your lowest score. So far one of my top 3 profs at DVC.
Professor Mercer lectures a lot but it's all good and likes us to ask questions and comment. He makes you feel welcome and he is funny. Tests arnt too hard but final is a take home and takes a lot of work. Extra credit saved me and advise doing them.
This professor is fair and the test arnt too hard. He drops your lowest exam and lots of ec opps. Final is a take home. He doesn't take role, so you can miss a be ok if you can get the notes. He is funny and has good lectures.
Nice guy and cares about us. My only issue is that the first test was tough, but you get to drop your lowest score. One of the few classes I looked forward to this semester.
Would be perfect except final exam takes a bunch of time. It's take home, but need to get started on it ASAP for the A. Extra credit saved me so recommend doing.
It's a good class.
Much better class than I expected. Have to take good notes, most of first part of the class comes straight from the prof's lectures. Many videos but they are all good. Some may not like as he is very liberal but alright by me.
GREATEST PROF!!!!! Hes hilarious and he cares sooo much about his students. Theres 3 exams and he drops one. No quizzes. Theres one final exam but it was an essay and you had a week to do it and he broke down the content very well. I love this guy and hes such a good prof, he actually knows what hes talking about & makes lectures entertaining
His class is 100% politically driven (he openly admits this). He uses human biology to forward his ideas about capitalism, the United States government, etc. If youre okay with that, then youll like the class as the lectures are rather entertaining and the coursework is incredibly easy. I received an A with minimal out of class work.
Very interesting if you are curious about this subject. He is very nice and polite but is lecture heavy. He is critical when it comes to celebrities and politicians because he'll throw in a jab at one of them during his lecture. He also talks about his personal dating life when trying to relate to the material. He is overall cool, alot of xtra cred
Professor Mercer is a gem. I took biological anthropology in summer 2019, and while the class was super condensed, I can say honestly that I have never learned more in a class. Test questions come from in class notes more than anything. Do the extra credit assignments! He drops the lowest test grade. But seriously, take very, very detailed notes.
Just a great experience. The professor is a really nice guy and he will help you without hesitation. He tells you write what he says down and you will do great. I did and I did. Funny guy too!
Good class. There is something wrong with Professor Mercer and I love it. He really cares bout us and Im going to miss the man. I hung out at his office hours and it really helped. Tests come straight from lecture so blow the readings off.
There's lots of readings and you have to lead a class discussion one time. It's not too bad because the professor totally helps you. He is sooooo nice and funny. Class goes into really rad stuff like zombies, vampires and aliens and it's fun. Final is a take home and not too many papers.
Heavy lectures with repeated material from the very last class meeting. He doesn't pass back papers( because then he'd have to learn your name) but instead sprawls them across the desk up front. Mercer has an unstructured teaching style and kinda just talks and shows videos. He likes inappropriate jokes, his teaching etiquette needs refinement.
I took Professor Mercer's summer class. It wasn't too bad, the only downside was the 30 minute tests. Theres total of 4 tests which are worth 100 pts. He drops the lowest one but you only have 30 min to take it which is stressful. Does not give study guide so you dont know what to expect on the quiz bc its a lot of info good luck lol
Good class. I learned more that I though I would. Work load is not bad and the labs are interesting. Professor Mercer is easy to get a hold of and he is really friendly and helpful. There are a couple of easy extra credit ops make sure to do. Only a couple of quizzes and pretty easy.
Easy class and interesting. Professor Mercer is always available and is very helpful. Few quizzes and easy to study for. Very interesting lectures.
I really liked Professor Mercer's class. It flows smoothly and its fun for an online class. The labs are a snap and the quizzes come straight from the lab so their easy. The vids and lectures are the best part and really good.
You could skim the reading and get an A. Professor drops your lowest test scores and curves everything. No term papers and extra credit that is actually interesting. Yep, recommend.
Don't skip the reading but you can skim and do just great. Tests are easy and the labs are too. The class is not synchronous so you don't have be on Zoom at a particular time. Professor Mercer is very uplifting in his videos.
This is a good prof and class but I would like to have had more essay questions on the quizzes. Other than that is pretty good all around.
I have a lot of appreciation for Mercer. He was willing to take Zoom calls at 10pm on Saturday night and anytime to help me and he is a funny and a friendly professor. I really think he cares about us. The class was about the usual for Canvas, but the video lectures were inspiring. Worth checking his class out.
I took his online class and it was easy to navigate. In each module there were a lot of good helpful visuals he made to help with the labs. Every time I needed he was there like bam now and was really encouraging. Not a fan of online classes but this one was ok.
I had him last year for 140 in person and it was an awesome class. This one was nearly as good, but if it was in person it would have been awesome too because Mercer's lectures are really really good. Work in this one wasn't bad at all and most of it was really interesting.
So far this professor is in my top three at DVC for helpfulness and fairness. The work is not bad at all and he doesn't grade hard either.
Mr. Mercer is a upbeat professor and he is very undemanding. Tests are a snap and he his really helpful. You can call him or Zoom with him whenever. The readings and vids were all good. Only one book you have to buy it was like 8 bucks. Highly recommend.
Put Buddha and Einstein together and you get Professor Mercer. He is soooo helpful and forgiving. This class went if fun directions that I didn't think it would in the beginning. Very fascinating class.
Mr. Mercer's lab was a goodie. No math or hard problems. Easy to recommend.
Easy peasy class and Professor Mercer is a nice guy. He explains everything really well and is always cheerful.
He's extremely understanding. TEXT him if you need to . Not many assignments to be graded on in the lab so you need to do everything for a solid A/B. Lecture is not Mando , he records them. About 6 Labs (easy) , 1 timeline ( 60 pts )based on 1 course required text, and quizzes. He provided a copy of the book online so we didn't need to purchase it.
Professor is fine, seems like a nice guy. He just is so lecture heavy and includes so many videos and different analysis that it can get side tracked easily and I found it hard to pay attention and understand the material. All assignments and papers are very easy and short. I guessed on all my essays and got A grades. He is not a harsh grader!!!
This is a 1 unit class, however, the workload feels like 3 units. The homework is not hard but takes time to complete. The quizzes are all from lectures and videos he provided, review all videos and lectures really takes time. Finally, he's a nice and respectful guy but I won't take any class with him.
Good steady pace class with no surprises and it is interesting. Lots of extra credit and prof drops lowest quiz scores . He also really cares so you can call or text him anytime and he will really help you.
There are 9 easy to do labs, 1 project that takes a few hours, and 4 quizzes that are all multiple choice. Mercer is good at explaining what to do so there were no snags for me. He is really helpful and very nice person. A good experience overall.
Amazing professor. Class flows smoothly and is not difficult if you put in the work. Gives study guides and provides very interesting discussions. I was out for almost 3 weeks with an illness and he went beyond to help me catch up. Class isn't over yet, but I think I'm in the hunt for an A. Recommend for sure!
Very kind professor and infectious personality. Absorbing lectures. Many easy to do extra credit options. One of the better classes so far at Diablo.
Nice guy, but lectures are all over the place and difficult to know whats important. Pretty pessimistic and spends a lot of time talking about how the world is doomed. Graded ONLY on 3 tests and 1 essay, but grading is light. Relatively easy to get an A, but I didnt learn a lot about the actual topic of the class. Attendance optional
Good lectures and the class is nicely put together online. Prof is a nice guy and very understand.
Mr. Mercer was a good teacher and very fair. No time consuming projects of research papers. A few easy extra credit assignments and are entertaining to do. He got back to me quick when I texted him, so I know he care about students.
Overall, Professor Mercer was caring and understanding and cares for a student's success. His grading seemed weird at first to understand but eventually was able to get it. I half of the time felt that the study guides only partly helped on the Quizzes and what helped was to really take great notes. Extra Credit helped bring me from a 89% to 92%.
This professor has a good Canvas set-up. It was easy to follow and there were lots of good visual material. The in-person parts were probably better. Mr. Mercer is a good lecturer and the course had a lot of relevant information. For school, it was a good experience.
I love this class. He has amazing lectures that will pull you in, all the topics he talked about, he did so very passionately. You can tell he loves educating his students. He is easy to talk to, understanding and cares about his students.
One of the best classes I ever took. Changed my daily behavior & outlook. Hes not going to make you delve into all he provides but if you do, if you pay attention, not only will you succeed in his class but youll be a better person. Tests are TOUGH and pooled from the different resources offered, but he offers extra credit. Awesome class!
only 4 things in the grade book which are 3 module exams and an essay which makes it tough to get an A since quizzes are only 25 questions. he assigns a lot of videos and lectures than the average 3 unit class which makes it very time consuming. dont take it if ur looking for an easy elective. be prepared and listen intently! super nice dude tho!
Honestly one of the best professors you could ever get, that's if you care about your grade. And even if you're struggling you could still get an A in this class, the material is pretty interesting so it makes the class not as hard and one really convenient thing is he stays up till 1 AM for you to chat with him even on weekends. very understanding
Professor Mercer wants you to succeed. He's very passionate about the content as you'll tell from his lectures, sprinkles in some humor, but also expresses strong opinions at times. Overall he's a very compassionate guy, gives you more than enough time and tools to succeed, the workload is very manageable. The perfect 1 unit class.
Professor Mercer has everything that you would like for in a professor; he's funny, knows the content well, gives extra credit and plenty of time on assignments and you can literally text him at any time for questions. I looked forward to going to his class every day, definitely take him!
If you're taking his hybrid summer course, you'll find that his in-person lectures go through the material quickly, so review all the content in the Canvas modules if you want to pass! He has easy extra credit opportunities, highly recommend doing those if you want to boost your grade. He seems like a chill and funny guy.
Don't even think twice about just enroll with Mercer. He is extremely caring and funny not a harsh grader and it is very easy to get an A/B if you just do the work. His quizzes are tough just stay on top of the videos and labs.
Very nice man. Really great and informative lectures and along with that he responds to emails very fast.
Used N slur when telling us a story, 1st day of class[and he is NOT in a position to say that]. Long lectures, hard to determine what to take notes of. 2-4 external videos each unit that are on tests. 20-30 minutes for 30 questions---a big slap in the face for folks who can't get evaluated for learning disabilities. Tough grader, no feedback.
The chillest guy doesn't take attendance or anything. Interesting and thought-provoking lectures combined with simple yet challenging quizzes and easy-to-follow labs. No essays or long-form writing, only a simple final at the end of the class. An awesome local guy who would recommend if you like good grades and credits.
Amazing professor who makes the material engaging. The class is well-structured, with helpful study resources like Unstuck study. Stay on top of the work and you'll likely get an A. Highly recommend this class!
Super chill class and professor. He makes his lectures both funny and engaging by telling jokes and stories along with them. You can tell he just wants everyone to succeed and he is a fair grader. I am a Comm major so I only needed to take this course for my one science credit, and I'm glad I did because it was an easy A and very interesting.
Just not a great teacher. Pretty funny and personable, but is passionate about controversial things. Religious people beware.
i just spent a good 5 minute scroll of the past reviews of mercer, and am convinced he writes himself good reviews and thumbs-down the bad ones. he is the worst professor ive ever had, geniunely. i literally did not understand what was going on at all, does this man have ADHD or something? only 30 minutes for an exam. im actually abt fight him fr.
Professor Chris Mercer's remarks(lectures felt not only inaccurate but also dismissive of the profound and well-documented impact Greek civilization has had on human history, philosophy, mathematics, and science.I believe these statements misinform students and perpetuate disrespect toward a culture that deserves recognition for its lasting legacy.
Used the hard R first day of class... not one who should have that word in his vocabulary. Class was poorly taught, very bland with very minimal excitement. Seems to be a teacher that hates his career choice.
Even when you express the same ideas in your own words, the outcome is always the same—he still finds a reason not to give full credit. His grading is very strict, and even when your response differs in writing style from his own, he still deducts points.
Professor Mercer is a very strict grader. I feel that the amount of work assigned in such a short period of time can be overwhelming. It would be helpful if there were more flexibility in the workload or schedule. I believe the course pacing could be improved to support students more effectively.I wouldn't take this professor again.
4wk online class. Graded by 4 exams, 3 mostly multiple choice and 1 essay exam, and one extra credit essay. I liked his lectures, very passionate about the topic. Provides textbook pdf. I do wish he provided feedback when docking points off of essay questions. It is a lot of info for a 4wk class so I would take a longer term if you want an A.
He offers extra credit and does reply fairly quickly outside of normal campus operating hours. I just wish the lectures were more structured. He rushes through the slides sometimes and will present slides that aren't accessible to us just to ask questions about it on the tests and study guides. A bit too opinionated especially on topic of religion
Very odd professor to say the least.. first day of class he talked about his “freaky” fantasies with cardi b and how their kids have kids in his dream. NO PERTINENCE to anthropology. I was uncomfortable so stopped coming to class but you can still pass without attending like I did. All test answers were on quizlet no homework at all for us.
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
30%
Textbook Required
18%
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