A lot of notes but helpful for quiz and some test.a lot of reading,Clear in answering questions, want students to participate.

Chris is very cool. As long as you do the reading before the lecture this class is pretty easy. You must attend class to get an A, because his lectures focus on the items on the tests.

I took his History 11 & History 12 class. There is a lot of information to learn but he makes it extremely fun to learn. I think he is one of the best teachers SMC has.

Chris' class is very interesting. He is cool and cares and helpful. There is a lot of interaction. This is not a boring class. You will have to read and attend classes. Lots of notes.

Chris, is not only a great teacher but a really cool person. I would really recommend taking his class. He's really helpful and makes learning history really smooth...

I have taken class' at SMC for two years, I think Chris Niekson is SMC's best professor.

Chris is a great teacher who is very knowledgeable on the subject matter and will take the time to explain anything that you might be confused about. He's very fair and does anything he can to help his students.

best history teacher at Smc......a fact!

Chris is a great teacher. He makes history interesting and fun.

Chris is awesome. He's so approachable and he understands student's needs. He makes history very interesting by having students interact with history itself--looking through historical documents and such. Very very good teacher.

Great Class. Very Knowledgeable, quite willing to accept counter arguments. Your opinion and counter point is very relevant in the class.

Very good professor. I got to a top 4 year university where I have only been taught by Doctor and he ranks among one of the best professors I have ever had. If you are interested in learning history through the lens of race and race relations, take this.

Nielsen gives perspective on History from each point of view. In his class you examine primary documents from people of the time. Differing views make history interesting. Nielsen's class focuses more on the people and less on dates and battles.

He made history fun and intresting for me. He's great!

his class is interesting and he gives you notes, which minimizes in-class stress and study time

I never enjoyed history class until I took Chris' class. His style of teaching makes you interested in the subject. In his class you read primary documents along with the text to give you more idea of what was happening in history. You will learn...

Chris was referred to me by friends, so I knew he must be a good teacher.Chris is amazing, take his class and your hate for history will become love. However, if you like war history and only war history, then Chris' class may not be right for you.

Very friendly, intelligent professor. Teaches class with very interesting material. He really focuses on the social factors that create history, rather simply on the events. He also doesn't talk about war and battle, which is awesome. =)

Excellent teacher! Wouldn't recommend anyone else!

He is the best.He will never ask you anything on your exams that he does not teach.His class is so clear and easy and English is my 2-nd language.He is also very hot and good looking and most of the girls like me,had a hard time concetrating.

Do not take his class unless you are a history major. The class is very demanding. He is a smart guy and helpful but brings current days politics into class which is really boring from his point of view.One midterm exam, one final two quizzes and a portfolio. None of them are easy.

Dude, this guy is a very nice guy. There is a lot of demand in reading but if you cover your tracks, you should have no problem understanding the material. If you don't read, you don't pass! Read, read, read!!!... Smart young guy! You'll be fine if you read, interact with students, and share your

Take Chris, he's laid back, patient, understanding and a great teacher. He makes history interesting. He doesn't like to lecture that much because he's more into discussion through historical documents. Very interesting class. Not hard at all, just a lot of reading and work.

Chris integrates class discussion with lectures and emphasizes the humanitarian aspects of history a lot. There's a lot of reading, as any history class demands, but his lectures are clear and interesting. I had a great time in his class; enjoyed the essay portions of his tests the most. He's great!

Not the best class ever, but a good class. He's a nice guy, but to liberal. Lots of boring reading, but lectures are ok. Relax girls, makes eye contact with guys too. Requires portfolio which takes alot of time, but midterm and final are fair. Hard to get an A.

Chris Nielsen is awesome. He's a wonderful teacher, who emphasizes the sociological aspect of History. Chris is liberal and will not deter from letting you know this, but is open-minded about other opinions. I loved both classes and am looking forward to take History 13.

Chris is a great teacher. He sure does make the subject easy to understand. He has his own opinions about different views, but he likes to hear different points of view. There is a lot of reading in this class, but let's face it; it is a History class. I enjoyed this class very much

US History? Its more of a study of US social history from a black prospective. Natives were touched but not covered as in depth as slaves. Good teacher, expects interaction and effort. 3 books to read one is small, one a history book and the last 250 documents. A good teach, likes class discussion.

Chris is a great teacher who enjoys class interaction. Not an easy A, but if you pay attention and read, read, read youll do fine.

This class was by no means hard if you were willing to do the work, in fact it was down right fun. Being a science major, I never thought I would find a class like history interesting, but Chris's teaching style is superb. I highly recommend this course, but be prepared to put in effort!

The mid term and final were very hard. He says he does not test on dates or battles but that was a lie. I didn't like his grading system. I got an "A" on 4 out of 6 test and got a "C" in the class it just doesn't add up. He is enthusiastic about teaching and understanding because he is still a student as well. But pay CLOSE attention to the grades.

A very good teacher. The class interesting and I learned a good deal. It was not hard to get an A at all, at least for me. As long as you prepare for the essays on the exams, and come to class every day, it's really not difficult. There is a lot of reading to do, but it's really not bad if you pay attention to Chris. I recommend this class.

Chris is such a hot teacher; he's yummie and a great teacher. I have such a crush on him!!! Thinking about him makes me smile.

Follow the reading, due the project, and study for the exams. Easy B if you stick with it. Material isn't hard. The teacher is very knowledgeful and you'll have to be too in order to get an A. Not a slacker corse.

CUTTIE PIE.... he's very helpful..yes, do the reading and don't wait last minute to do the project... tests are NOT easy but he makes the class interesting...material is interesting overall loves to talk about race...participate a plus..

Chris was an excellent teacher. His class focuses more on analyzing history than regurgitating facts. His lectures are interesting and open to student comments.

Chris is the best teacher.. he doesn't waste time lecturing and he allows everyone to express their opinions in disussions and doesn't force you to adopt his own opinions.. It was a challenging but educational class. I'm sorry its over.

I took this class is summer - the short semester, so it was hard. But very interesting! Really, really loved the teacher. He was clear & a good story teller. Also fair & friendly. If you need to take History take his class!

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this was the most interesting history class Ive ever taken. Chris is hot, so it makes class easier to listen too... plus he makes everything you're learning relevant. Hes very smart, and easy to talk to... but he grades pretty hard on his primary source analysis writings...

very helpful, makes the class much more interesting that it really is.

I loved this class. Considering it has nothing to do with my major, it was one of the best classes I have ever taken. Chris really makes the subject come alive. Highly recommend if you really want to learn history.

You'll watch alot of videos which is great, discusions are great, he's a nice guy, but his tests are hard. Really hard i managed to get a C in the class, and I'm not a stupid person.

History is boring to me, but he made it interesting. He goes against the book a lot of times, which is a positive for a history class. He knows his history and will give us his theories and opinions. HE's also HOT! anyways, I suggest taking him. Tests are essay, short ans., mult. choice. Grades hard on essay,but cheat sheet allowed.

class was interesting. not too hard. you have to take notes. teacher was okay, but not hot...unless youre into the old, fatherly type.

the best history teacher ever. i hated history but now it's awesome. he made it interesting. for real history knowledge and good perspectives on history, take him. might even change my major to history now.

Professor Nielsen was amazing - he is very interested in his profession and makes it incredibly interesting for his students ... he's laid back and very nice and if you respect him he will return it! Take him, he's amazing!

His class was very interesting he did not always agree with the history books but he does know his history. His exams are hard consisting of essays. He allows a cheat sheet, so you'll be fine. I used to hate history but now I learned to understand it. By the way girls he's HOT!

This is what a college course SHOULD feel like. What a breath of fresh air. It was interesting, challenging, and gave an incredible sense of achievement. You'll work hard in this class (if you want a good grade) but you'll definitely WANT to work hard. He just brings the student out in you. The best class I've taken by a very long way.

Amazing Teacher and very very interesting class. It is more a discussion than a lecture and it is captivating. I took him almost 2 years ago and I remember so much of it!

HIST12: I loved this class, it kept me interested through out the entire semester. The work wasnt hard, no surprises, read the documents indicated, go to class, make a good cheat sheet & you'll get a good grade.

Chris is a great professor. I took his class in fall 2006 as a 5 week course on Saturdays and Sundays. He showed us a lot of slides and documentaries. The paper was hard but if you do it early, he will edit it for you. Besides being an amazing professor he is a very good looking man. The only regret is that breaks were too short -- it's 5 hr class

Chris is an amazing teacher. I've never enjoyed history until his class. I suggest you never miss a lecture, not just because he bases his tests off of them, but he is truly engaging.

Great professor. Interesting lectures. Use of primary source documents makes history come alive. Friendly, approachable, down to earth person who actually likes what he does. Highly recomend. I'm sure you'll enjoy his class:)

Mr. Nielsen is a good and fun teacher. I would get straight out of work and go to this class and not once was it boring and it kept me up. He is very flexible and understanding. He is one of the best teachers I had at SMC.

His class is easy, he lets you use notes on test days. But, a lot of reading is required. He wants you to think critically and wants you to go beyond the text. Put in a lot of your opinion in essays, and not just factoids. The class is essentially African-American studies. He loves what he does and his class was very enjoyable.

I was all set to dread this class. History? Seriously? I knew on the first day this class would be different. You don't learn history, you actively participate in "doing" history from the bottom up, not the top down. You have to show up, participate and know the material, and while it's not an easy class, it is worth the effort! Chris is amazing!

I knew nothing about American history since 1865. Now I know a plenty of stuff, he made history interesting. Im surprised that I actually started to like history. He take history to another level! Absolutly wonderful !Take him!

If you do the work, you will get an A. It's a fun class and I'm sure easier than other professors.

Just heard that his fall class may be canceled due to low enrollment. If you're thinking about taking this class, sign up now! You will never have a better teacher. He brings the subject to life and makes the learning experience enjoyable.

He taught this class at Valley College during the Fall 08 semester. The only regret is that I took the VCAP class, which is so intensive, too much information to learn in such a short time. Otherwise, Mr. Nielsen is a GREAT teacher, very passionate about History, really engages you and makes the class interesting. And his gorgeous eyes are a plus!;

best in the west

The most recent post is quite shocking ? I couldn?t disagree more. Chris has been one of the best professors I have ever had. His interactive, discussion-based format keeps the entire class engaged. But above all else, I was impressed with his accessibility as a professor and his willingness to providing extra support for students wherever needed.

The best professor i've ever had including those in the university i went on to attend. Extremely passionate yet open-minded and very compassionate when it comes to matters in and out of the classroom. Learn from my history and take history with nielsen if you're the type to find a teacher who you will inspire you to learn.

He is crystal clear regarding what he is expecting from you as a student. Have his outlines ready for the class-very helpful (especially if English is your 2nd language as in my case). A good amount of work but he makes it seem easy.Not big on memorizing dates.He respects his students'opinions eventhought sometimes are very different from his.

great teacher

good professor. really intelligent. memorizes a lot of material and historical facts. he is not opinionated, however he does hint his beliefs. you might not pick up on his wittiness if you are particularly dumb, but he can be pretty funny. He is a really hard grader. its not much of a class for someone looking for an easy A, or even a B.

What a great teacher. He presented subject mater that I initially found boring in a way that made it new and interesting again. If all teachers were as passionate about teaching as Nielsen we would be a country full of educated and engaged citizens. Highly recommended!!

He is the best history teacher I have ever had at SMC.Good amount of work, sometimes is hard but it is really worth it.I took both hist 12 and 13, i loved his class.I am an international student but I enjoyed his class and learned very much.very interesting class and listening to his lectures.I highly recommend his class and you will love it!!!

HIS CLASS WAS INTERESTING..REALLY DIDNT TAKE USE THE BOOK JUST THE PACKET..TOOK THIS CLASS IN THE SUMMER..GOT AN B...THE DISCUSSIONS WERE INTERESTING..VERY EASY AND HELPFUL TEACHER...

Awesome class! I considered myself knowledgeable, but his lectures informed me of social justice issues and delved into things that other teachers hadn't. Very powerful class, and after every class, I left thinking about everything I had learned. Tests are written. Final 10-page (but reasonable) research paper due at end. Enriching class. Take it!!

This prof. is amazing and a recommendation to anyone. Very interesting discussions. Keep up with the course pack reading and you will do fine. Midterm and Final in class essays. Very approachable and helpful. Know's his stuff.

One of the best teachers EVER. Is very into his subject, Poli Sci majors, take his class . He will give you the backround in American history needed to understand Poli Sci( put things in context ). Always a fun class , I had him for 2 classes, and each time it was a fun class to take .

Prof. Nielsen is one amazing guy! He knows exactly what he's doing and talking about. His class was very interesting and makes you think. I would recommend him if you are taking His 11. A LOT of reading in his class, but you learn a lot of new things.

Prof Nielsen is completely awesome! His class takes a lot of reading & analyzing but he makes you interested so its not a chore. He cares that you understand the material and will go out of his way for you. TAKE HIM, you'll be happy you did!!

ABORT. Do NOT take this class if you do not like to write. Gives class 1 mini thesis to write. Plus 4 short essay tests,4 quizzes, 1 essay mid-term+final. I hate when teachers go on and on and on about personal things (he does that). I've taken 5 history classes (not a history major) and this is the first that I didn't get an A in(was too boring).

Great teacher. Approachable, conscientious, very interesting. Extremely knowledgeable in American History. Unique and welcoming teaching method: engaging class to speak up, ask questions, get involved. He has made a very positive impact. I recommend him. He is one of the best teachers in my lifetime.

Its been a few years since i was last in his class but this guy is awesome. Very knowledgable in US history. He makes the time to clarify material,he's very approchable,and maintains open dialogue with his students.I read alot and my final project was long but for the quiz's i remember we were allowed 1 cheat sheet. Hope u pick him he's great.

He is a great teacher. his class is pretty easy and there is mainly writing but if u read and take good notes for the reading. it should be an A. his lectures are conversationla and he makes it easy to understand history. great teacher!!!! i recommend him. MUST TAKE

Took his 16 wk online class. Very helpful & clear. Note: this class is NOT for the lazy. I wrote & read a lot for this class! Weekly discussions, biweekly quizzes and a couple short essays. Hardest thing is prob the Primary Worksheet at the end of the semester, but as long as you put good effort you'll do great. He's very good & I learned A LOT!

A great professor who is very good at lecturing. He engages the class frequently and tells a fascinating story about U.S. history. There's a lot of writing in this class, but that is for the best, as college requires one to be skilled at writing. I wish his class wasn't on Saturdays, though. But other than that, the class is perfect!

Pretty easy class b/c no midterm or finals, couple essays,discussion every week,quiz every other week. He takes a while to respond to online posts. Sometimes his instructions weren't clear. His online class is a breeze so I would definitely recommend him!

Great guy! Very down to earth. However, he is very biased for Democrats and gives a biased comment almost every class. Gets old quick. His class is mostly about slavery/racism rather than other equally important moments that created the US. It's pretty much a black history class, which is fine, but you won't find a rounded perspective.

if you like writing,this class should be a piece of cake, be prepared for "short essay questions" ,he asks for this on his Quizzes and Tests, and a piece of advice, he has a research paper due at the end of the semester, start it ASAP. very fair grader, if you know your stuff on paper he will give you an A.

Professor Nielsen is an awesome teacher, he's very into his lectures and doesn't push you into taking a ton of notes. He usually has guidelines of what you should study and read about. You have to do 4 papers in his class and there's a research paper at the end of the semester. If you pace yourself and love to read and write this is your class.

Chris is an amazing passionate teacher. His assignments are very interesting, varied with clear instructions. He will respond promptly to emails and provide feedback on assignments. My only wish is that I had enrolled in other classes of his as he is a genuine guy who puts a lot of effort into his teaching. Thanks Chris !

Amazing professor who gives the best discussions on topics you might think are boring. I actually converted to a history major because of him.

Took his eight week class and loved it. I usually don't like history but his class was really interesting with lots of interaction. Get ready for some test and writing paper and a mini-thesis but it actually is all getting together pretty well. I'm definitely taking his class again

Took his 8 week last fall. He is a great lecturer and makes you interested in the subject. If you like writing it is an easy class. Does not focus on remembering dates. Taking hist 12 in spring with him. Great professor! Mellow and caring.

Best teacher I've ever had. I took all the classes he offered. He also works at Cuesta College

I took professor Nielsen on the 8 week summer semester. He is so passionate in history and it is amazing to see it. I really don't like history because it is so difficult to memorize. BUT he give you a great outline in which you can check off. You will be on task, every week there will be a quiz. open notes are allowed in his class (GOODLUCK).

Great class that touched on every aspect of American History, nothing left out. Pretty routine work so you always knew what was due for the week. Fast grader. Great feedback on work. Text was digital and given free by the instructor. BUT, quizzes are impossible, would be more conducive to learning if they matched the current chapter for the week.

I recently took this class online during the summer semester 2017 and this class was very informative and it was a breeze. i enjoyed this class although it was online the workload is very reasonable and the professors directions for each assignment was very clear and straightforward

Took His11 as a summer online class, loved this class. The professor was pretty chill and gave me good feedback on assignments. Get ready to write though, the discussion threads are pretty sizable, but there's not many other assignments other than those so they aren't as bad as people say they are. He also allows retakes of the quizzes and final!