2.4

Daniel Lawson

Chemistry - University of Michigan - Dearborn

2.4
Quality
3.9
Difficulty
46%
Would Retake
163
Reviews
2.4
Quality
3.9
Difficulty
2.4
Helpful
2.4
Clarity

46%

Would Retake

163

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

25

4

19

3

28

2

31

1

60

What Students Say

I actually really liked professor lawson

CHEM134 - 3.0 rating

He is the worst teacher ever

CHEM368 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

65%

Textbook Required

27%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 36 grades
Most common grades:
B+ (8)
A (7)
A- (7)
Grade Distribution
A(9)B(7)C(2)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(15)
Based on 39 reported grades
B+: 8
A: 7
A-: 7
B: 7
Common Tags
Get ready to read (12)
Test heavy (10)
Lecture heavy (10)
Participation matters (6)
Clear grading criteria (6)
Tough grader (6)
Tough Grader (4)
Accessible outside class (3)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.47 avg change
Nov
Jan
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEM136L

5.0

(1)

CHEM134136LAB

5.0

(1)

CHEM134L

5.0

(4)

CLAB134

5.0

(1)

CHEM090

5.0

(1)
+15 more courses
Difficulty by Course

124

5.0

CEHM124

5.0

CHEM136

5.0

CHEM368

4.3

CHEM124

4.3

Reviews (163)
3.0
5.0
CHEM368
Oct 9, 2003

Easy on the eyes, bad for the brain!

3.0
3.0
CHEM368
Oct 9, 2003

Writes alot of junk on the board. But tests are ok eventhough homeworks are killers!!! He's reasonable in fixing grades...

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
May 13, 2004

SUCKS at explaning stuff...not very helpfull either unless you suck up. Doesnt really give rats ass about your problem or grade...wouldNOT recommend taking him for anything

1.0
3.0
CHEM
May 17, 2004

No Comments

5.0
1.0
CHEM124
May 22, 2004

explains things clearly. class isnt so boring. everyone should do well on exams if they study. exams arent tricky.

5.0
1.0
CHEM124
Jun 1, 2004

This is the easiest class in the world compared to physics. every student should get an A if they want to.

1.0
2.0
CHEM124
Jun 23, 2004

Do like learning out of a book? you'll have to in this class. Lawson cares about getting tenured and getting this reasearch done, he s probably really good at it but teaching isnt his strong point. Corniest jokes but hes a genius. tests are kinda easy

2.0
5.0
CEHM124
Jul 4, 2004

first time taking chemsitry and prob the last because of lawson. it was soo hard. hsi test were so random. what helped alot was netgrade. thats forsure a plus in the class. other then that his teaching mehodolgy was not soo great at all. was hard!

4.0
1.0
CHEM124
Sep 1, 2004

He's funny and super easy. Anyone who has his class shouldn't have a problem passing

2.0
5.0
CHEM368
Oct 13, 2004

so blunt, cold personality, unusual humor, not friendly, talks down to you, ok grader

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Oct 29, 2004

not friendly when it comes to answering questions, gets into too much detail, READ THE BOOK b/c it will explain the topics better than he can, be well prepared for all exams, tries to be funny but is just mean

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Nov 2, 2004

Sucks at teaching. Tries to cover way too much and goes too far in detail. Doesn't care about your grade. I wouldn't take any class with him as instructor ever again.

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Nov 10, 2004

Horrible teacher, exams are difficult(class averages in the 60s), terrible at explaining concepts to class. Stay away if at all possible.

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Nov 12, 2004

Horrible... Just horrible. His tests are impossible. Make sure you study EVERYTHING, even if he says some things are not going to be on the test. You're chem book will become your best friend in the class. He has a very hott temper. If you have him, God Speed.

3.0
3.0
PCHEM
Nov 12, 2004

oh, now now. lets not hate on Johnny Bavo too much. He s not too bad considering he doesn't give two **** about chem 124. PLEASE TAKE HIM FOR P CHEM AND YOU LL BEG G CHEM.

3.0
5.0
CHEM124
Nov 16, 2004

okay teacher. doesn't really explain things too much, is more concerned with telling you the information to ensure that when you have a problem it won't be his fault because he warned you in advance by teaching you.is good at explaining if you go to his office, but looks down on you when in lecture

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Nov 19, 2004

Horrible teacher and very boring!! Tests are impossible and don't have any thing to do with the info. covered in class. Doesn't care about your grade. Lectures are pointless and exactly says whats in the book. Thanks to him, i hate chemistry and will never take chemistry again in my life!!!!

1.0
4.0
CHEM124
Nov 20, 2004

He is rude and doesnt know how to teach.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Nov 22, 2004

Terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible,terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible,terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible,terrible, terrible, terrible, TEACHER!

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
Nov 23, 2004

I don't think that he explains himself clear enough.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Nov 23, 2004

Prof. Lawson doesn't explain anything the way it should be explained. His tests are impossible, and he is a jerk to anyone who asks questions. Do yourself a favor and don't take his class!

2.0
3.0
CHEMISTRY124
Nov 24, 2004

Lawson is a nice guy but he sucks at being a first-course (Chem 124 professor). He goes on weird tangents in every lecture telling stuff that we do not need to know. His tests are also written purposely to confuse, the average grade is usually failure.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Nov 30, 2004

No Comments

3.0
3.0
CHEM124
Dec 3, 2004

This class really isn't that difficult, but you aren't going to be babied through it. I really enjoyed the fact that he posts his pp presentations online, go through them thoroughly and make sure you can do problems like the ones in class and on the h/w. I admit, tests arent easy though

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 7, 2004

Horrible teacher, does not explain anything, tests are on everything he does not cover in lecture.

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 7, 2004

If we didn't have CPS, I seriously would not go to the lectures...you basically have to teach yourself in this class anyway, and with the lecture notes and everything else online there's no point to bein class! Stupid CPS! If you like learning from the book..and ONLY from the book-take this class.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 9, 2004

This teacher is VERY bad. He doesnt teach us anything AT ALL. All he does is read his power points to us in class, which we could do ourselves at home since he posts them online. His tests are ridiculously hard and there is always material on it that he never even mentioned. Dont take this teacher!

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2004

u wud rather wanna poison urself than taking this teacher....amazingly horrible. he does not know ****!! i wish a hadent taken him.....i hate this guy...his tests are immpossible and he DOES NOT curve. please spare urself...and if u want to have a happy semester..DO NOT TAKE HIM!!!!!!!!

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 13, 2004

This class is a mess. seriosly I recomend that you dont take other hard classes with it. This class is terrible, everything went wrong so far. its a mess, just like the war in Iraq.

4.0
4.0
CHEM124
Dec 13, 2004

tests and homework are very difficult and confusing. grade suffers greatly from the difficulty of tests.

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Dec 14, 2004

Lawson does not answer questions and the homework much too difficult for the problems that we practice in lecture. The tests are sometimes on things that he does not explain and tells us to learn them on our own. A terrible teacher, but funny person.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2004

DON'T TAKE HIS CLASS!!! It is amazingly hard especially his tests. Assumes that you know every thing about chemistry eventhough its a first semester chem course. Ruins your GPA. Do your self a favor and don't take his Class!!!!

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 18, 2004

His exams are hard...VERY hard, just had the final and there were questions he prob picked from the la la land, even if he gave me 2 extra hours i still wouldn't be able to do them, and i spent so much time studying not even funny. One time i asked if he had time to help me he goes no..yea thats him

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Dec 18, 2004

Don't believe all the naysayers.Chem is supposed to be a hard subjext.Granted Lawson cannot teach a 3rd grade class, but still he tries to help you out.He told us that he was not going to curve, but he did. If you have a chance do take someone else go for it. Just aviod Lawson.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 18, 2004

Lawson the hardest teacher u'll have at Deaborn. He doesn't care for anyone, everything has to go his way, even the recitation teachers dont even like him. The only reason i ever went to class was to check out and hit on this one cute chick. If ur taking this class make sure all your friends take it

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 21, 2004

Lawson knows his stuff.... However, he should get a teaching degree before he tries to explain the stuff. VERY UNCLEAR.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 22, 2004

Lawson is the biggest mother ****er of all timesorry but he is he gave me C+ and i dont know what he gave to other student who did bad in his test, lawson u should be fired, it's great that u r not teaching me again, please dont tajke his class if u dont want ur GPA to go down

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 23, 2004

Lawson in unclear, mean, and enjoys seeing students struggle to fail. He has no heart for anyone and does not give a rip about his students. trick you on tests As for his teaching skills..he doesnt have any. Said class avergae would be a B- C+ on syllabus. Last day of class he decided not to curve

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Dec 28, 2004

He can't teach, doesn't understand many of the concepts himself, does not know how to write tests based on what he has taught, and has no time nor willingness to help the students. Good luck to anyone who has to take his class!

1.0
5.0
124
Jan 1, 2005

He is terrible. I recieved an A-, and the reason I am saying this is because I do not want the person reading all the reviews to think most the people on here are dumb. NO lawson is a **** who did not curve. An obscene amount of students failed. He was prick.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Jan 10, 2005

please lawson stop teachin, only one thing in right about lawson "Lawson is the biggest mother ****er of all time" by students of fall '04. his class avg might be B- or C+ thats wat he says, but it might be C- or D + never take his class, if u can never ever think abt him again

3.0
4.0
CHEM124
Jan 10, 2005

This man talked too much about things that he then negated with the phrase,"but you don't need to know that for this class.." Also he was arrogant enough to say that a curve was impossible.

2.0
4.0
CHEM124
Jan 12, 2005

Best way to pass this course is to rock your labs & recitation - they're 60% of your grade! Lawson himself is shockingly disrespectful; you're better off asking any q's to your recitation instructors. I think Lawson gets frustrated with lower level chem classes.. he's smart but incredibly rude.

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
Jan 14, 2005

nice sweaters!

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
Jan 19, 2005

WOW!all i can say is AVOID taking him...all he did in class was read the powerpoint, which i can also do so i dont know why i had to pay to listen to him read it ...very hard professor but a nice guy

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Feb 23, 2005

a complete schmuck! the most useless professor at UMD. he does nothing but confuse students, his lectures are an absolute waste of time. i cant beleive this incompetent prick was hired to teach, you could put a monkey in front of the class and he would do the same job or better.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Feb 24, 2005

Professor Lawson is a ****....do great on ur labs and recitation cuz that will help you out if u fail the exams.....always do the homework..

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Mar 11, 2005

Had him last semsester. Relies too much on PowerPoint. Rude, gets annoyed when you ask questions, thinks he's all that. Goes off topic frequently. Failed all the tests with a 40-50% but got a B in the class because of Lab/Recitation. Don't stress out because you do bad on tests.

1.0
4.0
CHEM124
Mar 17, 2005

i would have to agree.....he was a tough teacher...study hard and read the book and do as much as u can cuz he isnt that helpful....

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Apr 7, 2005

****ing ****, doesn't give a**** weither u learn or not. Think every question is a dumb one and hates u for even asking. Test question don't make any sense, and well taking longer to figure what the **** he is talking about then to actual do them. Lawson is a piece of****, enough said.

5.0
1.0
CHEM124
Apr 8, 2005

he's not bad...engineering students will have an easy time understanding chem concepts. however, the lab instructor...GARLAND...*****ing mofo...

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Apr 14, 2005

Pray you have a good rec prof. Show up to class for the CPS points. Do the homework and modules. Spend time on your lab reports. Bring something worthwhile to do while you ignore him mumbling half a powerpoint slide to himself before saying "yeah that's right" and clicking to the next. He's a prick.

3.0
3.0
CHEM124
Apr 21, 2005

Not as bad as everyone says. Tests are hard, but chem is a hard subject. Make sure you go to class for the CPS points, do the homework, and do the reccomended problems before the exams.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Apr 25, 2005

Lawson is so bad that you're better off waiting to take the class if he's the only one teaching it. The test right before the final exam had a class average of 56%. Hello, when your class average for a Majors class is an E, you need to examine your teaching methods.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
May 4, 2005

Please run away as far as you can from this man. he is so terrible it makes me sick. everyone fails all his exams. and the curve is a measly 3%. over half the class had a 69% or below for a final grade. the avg for exams was a low 50%. he could give a rats ass about students.

3.0
4.0
CHEM124
May 24, 2005

This is not an easy class by any means. Most people did poorly on the tests, but were able to recover their grades by doing the hw and labs. DB was a decent teacher although he went through some of the material very quickly. If you put the time into the class you should be able to pull off a B.

2.0
5.0
CHEM124
May 31, 2005

Class is taught at a very high level and is extremely hard to follow. Tests are impossible! Poor notes.

5.0
2.0
CHEM124L
Jun 8, 2005

I have him for lab and recitation and he is very good and helpful. I think he is a good professor and really clarifies things.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Jun 17, 2005

very arrogant and hard. He needs to chill out and calm himself, he is not nearly as good as he thinks he is. He is very intimidating and annoying. The class was a complete waste of my time, although I did ok, I didnt learn to much since we were all afraid to ask questions.

1.0
5.0
CHEM124L
Jun 19, 2005

I dont think this guy has any personality. He smiles once in a while at his own jokes and gets on my nerves so much. He is very rude.

4.0
3.0
CHEM124
Jun 19, 2005

He is a very laid back teacher and very good at clarifying issues in recitation. His lab is kindof hard to follow and would be easier if he fully explained the lab process. Overall, hes a good teacher!

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Sep 2, 2005

Worst teacher ever, if he is teaching a class, don't even enter the science building, he is so horrible that the vibe of his being might kill you instently

5.0
3.0
CHEM134
Sep 23, 2005

he is a nice professor he doesn't explain that much but he is very helpful if you ask him questions after class CPS ROCKS

1.0
5.0
CHEM124
Sep 23, 2005

i took this class in fall 04 and still ****in abt dan lawson he is the biggest **** of all time i still hate him and will never like to see him again he should go to north pole to teach, students please tel him he is big whole

3.0
4.0
CHEMISTRY134
Oct 3, 2005

duuude, I'm gonna fail out of college because of him, this class is so hard, and those webassign and cps assignments....who the hell thought of those things?? honetsly, if you have concentration and a will to succeed, go ahead, but you'll just be dissapointed :(

3.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: B+
Oct 18, 2005

Not bad lookin professor. He's like a cute model out of a science catalog for ordering chemicals. He's not the best teacher and the class needs a lot of independent studying, but if you take the class with good lab instructor, Prof Stewart, you should get a B. He's laid back and even funny sometimes. He's a nice guy. Don't know why his rating is 2

3.0
4.0
CHEM134
Dec 5, 2005

Very monotonous. Not sure if he really knew how to do the problems he demonstrated. Very misleading for the tests (says the test will be very mathematical during lecture, but while he passes out the tests he says the opposite). The homework and lectures do not adequately prepare you for tests, so you have to teach yourself most of hte material.

1.0
4.0
CHEM134
Dec 20, 2005

first two classes, ok..next class, you're already lost..seriously, he's so unclear, and the only reason you should go to class is for the stupid cps crap, other than that just buy the bok because he basically just copies it and puts in on a projector...do webassign, it'll keep your grade grounded at least...he's fun to look at, but that's about it

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 1, 2006

WORST TEACHER EVER, YOU WILL BE CONFUSED THE WHOLE TIME.

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 3, 2006

I wanted to major in chemistry, but after taking this guy, I am definately considering something else, this guy is insane.

4.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 5, 2006

very complex guy very hard, his tests r really hard, doest curve any test even if everyone failed, go on to someone else

4.0
3.0
CHEM134
Jan 7, 2006

Teacher was overall pretty good. I mean the class itself is hard so dont expect to get an easy ride. Tests are fairly hard, but if you take the time to study, you will do well. Lawson is good with answering questions and is very helpful. Overall an average teacher.

5.0
2.0
CHEM134
Jan 8, 2006

Hey guys, this is wats true, Lawson is an awesome professor, He helps you all the time no matter if it's his office hr or not, bt try to go in office hr anyways, He is not hard, however chemistry is hard. If you'll study 2 hrs a week than you'll get easy A. Trust me he makes it that easy, he covers everything in class, I highly recommend him. Peace

4.0
3.0
CHEM134
Jan 9, 2006

Lawson is good. He can't teach the material that well but then again I never had a chem teacher who could. Its a hard subject. His tests are not bad all multiple choice and resemble last years test. Whenever I asked for extensions, he gave them to me. He gave me an A- but then he changed it to an A because I was on the borderline. He's a nice guy!

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 10, 2006

Don't listen to this crap he is not a good teacher take someone else

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 23, 2006

HARD TEACHER, HE SEEMS COOL, BUT HE IS CONFUSED HIM SELF!

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Feb 7, 2006

take another teacher

1.0
4.0
CHEM134
Feb 22, 2006

great to look at, horrible teacher

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Mar 5, 2006

by far one of the worst profs teaching in the university...hard class...tests are hell..you gotta be a chemist get anywhere near a good grade..class average on final exam was a 58%

2.0
5.0
CHEM134
Mar 10, 2006

Horrible...worse explanations and his tests are impossible because there are problems on them that he has never went over in class...he doesn't go over all the different scenarios of problems. He's a very smart guy, he just can't relay that information back to us. He would make mistakes on examples and we would have to correct him.

5.0
1.0
CHEM136L
Mar 31, 2006

Hey guys, for some reason, he is hard in lecture but to be honest, he is very easy in lab. I had him for chem 136L and almost everyone atleast got 95% on lab. If you'll put little effort than 100% guaranteed in lab. Woudn't recommend for lecture, but higly recommend for Lab. For lecture, Smith is not so bad, (test are very easy). Alrite, goodlu

5.0
1.0
CHEM134136LAB
Apr 7, 2006

Hey guys I had Professor Lawson for chem 134 lecture and 136 lab/Rec. He is an awesome teacher possible on earth. He is easy, but chemistry is hard. He tries his hard to make it easy. He is way too easy in lab/rec. Highly recommended for lab/rec. I would also recommend for lecture. Keep up with all work and he is easy A. His curve is great.

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jun 11, 2006

i dont think it gets any harder than him...doesnt know how to teach...avoid him at all costs...if your looking to fail, take this insane man...tests are ridiculous...this class sucked

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 17, 2007

U of M Dearborn should fire teachers who dont teach their students correctly. Complete waste of a class.

1.0
5.0
CHEM136
Jan 22, 2007

Horrible professor.

2.0
3.0
CHEM134
Feb 21, 2007

He is such a terrible lecturer. He doesn't seem like he is interested in his job at all.

2.0
2.0
CHEML134
Apr 23, 2007

He's a fun instructor, but not very helpful. Seems bored of teaching (I had him for lab) and does not explain things well.

5.0
3.0
CHEM134L
Aug 11, 2007

The chemistry text is not always clear, and chemistry is not very easy. He'll willingly answer your questions/help and is actually a really cool lab/rec prof. Is very reasonable about labs and quizzes/class exercises and has a somewhat sarcastic sense of humor. He'll also let you borrow a calculator for a test or quiz if you ask in advance.

4.0
1.0
CHEM134
Nov 9, 2007

had him for lab THE best professor ever!! gave us everything that was on the quiz right before we took it. and lab was fast and fun with him!a real funny guy!

5.0
3.0
CHEM134
Sep 11, 2008

he's passionate about the subject and very open to offering help when needed. overall a great professor

2.0
5.0
CHEM134
Nov 20, 2008

He is absolutely the worst professor i have ever had. He is brilliant but is not very good at explaining the knowledge he has.

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Nov 20, 2008

funny but terrible at explaining. its a struggle for an decent grade in this class. tests are tough. the class avg was a 71,69,71!!!!

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Nov 26, 2008

He was nice and funny but not helpful at all to our class. I would go to him for help after lecture and he'd say "Can you just email me? We don't have much time." I got an A in chem in high school and I know that in college it's much harder but the way he explained things just did not make sense to me. Good luck with him.

2.0
4.0
CHEM134
Nov 27, 2008

Lawson comes off as easygoing but not at all willing to help you after class. Characteristically arrogant prof who does not consider effort nor if you do well. Definitely suggest reading the text. I missed an exam while in the hospital and his make-up exam was all short answer & completely ridiculous.

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 1, 2008

Lawson is not a very good teacher. During lecture he rambles on about stuff you do not need know. When he does give you the things you need to know in lecture, it is hard to understand. You're better off just reading the book.

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Dec 2, 2008

He is a terrible teacher, if you could call what he does teaching. i got d's on every test. his lectures are ridiculous, half the time i walked out not knowing a thing about what he just "taught" i would not recommend taking him to anyone. he doesnt really answer questions, just repeats what he already said. hes cocky and never wrong and on the ra

4.0
4.0
CHEM134
Dec 2, 2008

Lawson is a very intelligent professor. However, his lectures lack a bit of clarity and he fails to make anything fit into the big picture. The tests were ridiculous, and often didn't relate to any of the study materials he gave us. I rocked all the labs and in-class assignments but I got a C, E, and D on the tests. I did all the reading.

3.0
1.0
CHEM134
Dec 11, 2008

Well I know chemistry is a hard subject in the first place, but he is verrrry very difficult to follow. He always makes mistakes and honestly, he's too smart to be teaching such a low chemistry class. He expects his students to know so much more than they actually do. I learned more from just reading the book than listening to his lectures.

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 17, 2008

he is really cute but chemistry isnt a modeling contest. hes not as bad as everyone makes him seem but hes pretty bad i mean he knows what hes doing he just doesnt know what hes talking about and yeah he did make a lot of mistakes, and he is cocky sometimes. but students are so cocky to him maybe the 'smart kids' are intimidated by his good looks..

3.0
5.0
CHEM134
Dec 25, 2008

Prof. Lawson is one of the hardest teachers, even if you study 24/7, you still will not get a good grade.

2.0
3.0
CHEM134
Jan 11, 2009

His lectures are useless. Half way through the semester i just gave up on writing down any of his notes. The only reason i showed up was for the lecture exercises. I got a good grade, but only because i learned all of the material from the book. The book is your friend.

5.0
4.0
CHEM134
Jan 11, 2009

great teacher. easy on the eyes. pretty hard subject tho, so prepare to read--a lot!

5.0
1.0
CLAB134
Jul 9, 2009

Lawson is the man for recitation and lab!!!!! I loved his class and would love to take him again. Very nice, smart, and helpful. Lab was fun..and recitation was even better. It's good to participate. TAKE HIM AND U WON'T REGRET!

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 5, 2009

Okay, he's not as hard as people make him seem. Just as long as you read and pay attention to his lecture, you will do fine. His lecture exercises are VERY beneficial. And he's DEFIANTLY NOT AS CUTE AS EVERYONE MAKES HIM SEEM.

4.0
2.0
CHEM134
Dec 11, 2009

Forget the people that tell you this professor is hard bc hes not. the poeple that say hes hard are lazy and dont study at all

4.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 25, 2009

to get a good grade in this class, you will have to read all the chapters in the book. tests are not that tough if u study on a regular basis. do what you are suppose to do in this class, you will get an A. the only thing i did not like about this class was the labs. this class is not as hard as people say it is and lawson is not a bad professor

4.0
4.0
CHEM134
Dec 28, 2009

He?s very knowledgeable about chemistry; however, I had difficulty understanding concepts the way he explained them. He comes across as arrogant at times and isn?t patient when you ask him questions. Your best resource for succeeding in this course is reading the book.

2.0
5.0
CHEM134
Jan 10, 2010

WARNING if your the type that likes to listen to the professor RATHER than read the book....DO NOT TAKE THE CLASS...his lectures are boring and not helpful at all..at least to me they weren't...everything I learned was from the book...so start reading way ahead before he teaches...ONLY THE BOOK WILL HELP U OR UR SCREWED...

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Apr 20, 2010

As a professor, he is horrific. He does not know how to teach, and tries to fail students. This class, if taught right, can become very easy. He just sux at teaching thts what makes it hard.AND he tries to fail students on purpose. The most horrible teaching job i've seen. Why doesn't the uni hire people who have experience in teaching instd of phd

5.0
3.0
CHEM368
May 3, 2010

I don't know why all the 134 negative comments but Lawson was a very knowledgeable upper level teacher. If you ended a class not knowing something he would come back the next day with a handout explaining it better. If you need help he is always happy to help you. Chemistry isn't for everybody, don't expect to not try and get an A+.

4.0
4.0
CHEM134
Jul 16, 2010

If you do the work he suggests, you will find success easily in his class. He does not want to trick you or make your life difficult. He seems somewhat shy but you should never let that stop you from asking for help. Prof Lawson stayed after class on multiple occasions to help some of us work through problems. Great teacher, very knowledgeable.

4.0
2.0
CHEM134
Dec 3, 2010

He is a really nice guy, who is available if you need extra help. His tests are all multiple choice and quite easy because he gives u a test from his past class so you get an idea of whats gona be on it. If you study a fair amount, you'll do good, if you don't study you wont. its as simple as that. His lectures are ok, but he does fine at teaching

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 12, 2010

He was my lecture professor, so I thought his lecture material was okay. Honestly, you NEED to read the book. There is no curve, no extra credit, and the tests can be difficult if you don't study outside of class.

4.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 19, 2010

He's a pretty good teacher. He doesn't try to trick you or anything. He's always available if you need help. He's really approachable, and an overall nice guy. I would recommend him.

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 24, 2010

I actually really liked professor lawson. He wasn't extremely specific, but he did post up old exams to help study for new ones, which were really helpful. You do need to spend some of your own time studying though, chemistry is a tough subject in general. I would recommend him.

4.0
4.0
CHEM134
Jan 4, 2011

his lectures are good. just listen and and READ! you will be just fine...eventually the lectures became fun and i was able to form friendships with people who understood some things i didnt and we all learned from each other! labs are ok.just dont procrastinate. also, go to the SI sessions! they help! lectures are not that big of a deal...good luck

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Jan 6, 2011

My overall grade is a B+. There are three exams and a final. On the first exam, my grade was an 84%, on the second, it was a 64%, and on the third, it was a 75%, and on the final i got an 80%. Obviously these aren't good grades, but because i did very well in recitation and lab, it boosted my grade. You need to show up to every recitation & lab

5.0
2.0
CHEM090
Apr 16, 2013

If you ever have to take CHEM 090--such as if you are messing up in CHEM 144--you will be just fine as long as you do the work and go to class everyday........literally, all you really do is show up. Work hard, but don't feel like it'll be the end of the world. He gives A LOT of extensions on work in CHEM 090........just not in the higher classes?

5.0
3.0
CHEM134
Feb 13, 2014

one of the most down to earth chemistry professors at dearborn. very helpful in opffice hours, is understanding and gives the student the benefit of the doubt. tests are tough; however, fair and not over the top. grading is fair and does not deduct points unfairly. highly recommended.

5.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: A
Jan 11, 2015

The negative reviews for Dr. Lawson are obviously from lazy people who think they can can get an A in chemistry without having to work for it. Lawson is one of the best professors at UMD and is crystal clear in his lecturing. The tests were fair and he very helpful in office hours if you ask intelligent question after trying it yourself.

4.0
3.0
134
Grade: B+
Jun 17, 2015

He is very nice and understanding. But don't expect an easy A, you definitely have to work for a good grade. He made chemistry fun and interesting. Would take him again anytime.

5.0
3.0
CHEMISTRY134
Grade: C+
Jun 30, 2015

He is pretty cool!

1.0
5.0
CHEM368
Grade: D
May 6, 2016

He is the worst teacher ever. he need someone to teach him the subject before teaching it to student.

1.0
5.0
CHEM368
Grade: D-
May 7, 2016

never makes u feel welcome asking him anything and his exams has nothing to do with what he teaches

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: A-
Dec 9, 2016
Wouldn't take again

This class was the hardest class I have ever taken. What made it worse was the professor didn't really seem to care if you knew the material. He posts test that are from eight years ago. Do not take him. People cheated in his class and he didn't even do anything. Worst professor ever.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Dec 22, 2016
Wouldn't take again

His exams were extremely difficult and did not accurately measure ones knowledge of the material. He makes his exams in order to achieve a perfect bell curve on the scores. He doesn't curve even though the majority of the class failed exams. He gives a curve to your final grade but the max will only be 3%

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
2.0
CHEM134L
Mar 29, 2017
Would take again

Fair grader and a really nice guy! For class all you have to do it read the lab for the week because there is a quiz in the beginning of each lab and that's for every lab class and there is a lab report to turn in every week which only consists of a few questions. Also, the actual experiments don't take that long, we usually leave class early.

2.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: B+
Apr 7, 2017
Wouldn't take again

So, this professor cares more about finishing his slides so he can go home more than anything else. all his exams are multiple choice with 1-3 short response, but get ready to teach yourself. he absolutely does not teach, and can't answer questions with clear answers. his exams are fair, except for the second exam. just study and teach yourself.

Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: A-
Dec 5, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Going to lecture is required since he assigns in class problems as a way of taking attendance. The actual lecture is not very helpful to understanding the material. He makes a lot of mistakes on example problems, which makes things confusing. Better off reading the book and doing problems. The recitation instructors are better, so ask them for help

Get ready to read
Participation matters
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
1.0
2.0
CHEM134
Dec 20, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This professor rushes through material and spends entire lectures talking about irrelevant things. You'll have to teach yourself almost everything for this course. Also, he rarely responds to emails.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: A-
Dec 10, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Awful. Doesn't care about no student, just his lectures that are not even good. DO NOT TAKE HIM!!!

Get ready to read
1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Dec 11, 2018
Wouldn't take again

So this professor was by far the worst professor I have ever had. He literally reads the powerpoints and you can never keep track of where he is. It's time for an exam, and he's already two chapters into the next Unit. You NEED to teach yourself everything. All I can say is I never wore my seat belt on my way to school because of him. Goodluck.

Tough Grader
5.0
3.0
CHEM134
Dec 19, 2018
Would take again

It is simple, you put the work in, you get the grade you want. If you took AP Chemistry in high school, this class is basically a repeat. He is fair in my eyes and is very clear of what he wants from you. The tests can be difficult, but just study any sources he gives you before the exam. He does give a generous curve at the end of the semester.

Participation matters
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
3.0
5.0
CHEM134
Dec 28, 2018
Wouldn't take again

he was so nice, caring and helpful , but his exam are too long, it like 65 questions ( all need math and conversion ) , there were no way that you can answer all of them in the time. the class average was C .

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
3.0
CHEM134L
Grade: A
Apr 19, 2019
Would take again

Lab class is not hard at all, do the experiments and you'll do fine. I'm pretty sure our entire lab class got an A, very good at explaining as well. I definitely would recommend for lab.

Accessible outside class
Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
CHEM134L
Grade: A
Apr 20, 2019
Would take again

He was a very laid-back lab professor. As long as you put effort into the lab, you'd get points. He explains material very well and was always willing to help.

Clear grading criteria
2.0
1.0
FIN281
Grade: A+
Nov 12, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This was an intro to Finance class with all freshman, there were only 8 of us. No one knew what was going on. Your only grade was attendance so that was nice. Was a waste of time. I think he just wasnt used to teaching people who had never had any prior finance experiance.

Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Nov 3, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Way too much work. You won't have time for other classes if you take this instructor. is unaware that other people have a life. Exams are short timed for time consuming questions. Unless you are a professional chemist, you won't be able answer all the questions. Please stay from this guy away and save your money and time.

Test heavy
So many papers
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 2, 2020
Would take again

For an online class, he was great. He had recitation assignments which he included a video for the answers every time. All lectures recorded, but lots of them. Exams were okay, too many questions in not enough time but gives extra credit for that. Overall, he's a good professor. I didn't really do much work. Put in effort and you'll get the A.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
4.0
CH142
Grade: B
Jan 24, 2021
Would take again

He was a very understanding professor. He explains material very well and was always willing to help. It would always be a few students complaining only because they couldnt receive an easy A. As long as you come prepared and at least know some of the material youll do fine. One of the best professors Ive had. I wish him nothing but the best!

Accessible outside class
Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: B+
Feb 10, 2021
Would take again

He is a very nice professor and really laid back but the only problem was our exams were 50+ questions and only an hour and 30 minutes to complete so you had to rush. Homework assignments were around 30+ questions but they are doable. He is really understanding and gives extra credit and other assignments to bring up your grade.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
4.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: B+
Apr 28, 2021
Would take again

Solid class. He was reasonable and well spoken. I would take him again for sure.

Respected
2.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: C
Dec 17, 2021
Would take again

Lawson isn't the worst but surely not the best. He sucks at answering questions and is actually wrong a lot during class. It's a difficult class if you never took AP chem and don't have that sort of experience. He's a nice guy but he doesn't do any curves at all so you better be ready to take his tests. Study and read the book.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
134
Grade: B+
May 9, 2022

mr. lawson has a good personality but the class is very very difficult. if you work or have other labs simultaneously, this will be very difficult.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Online Savvy
5.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: A+
May 23, 2022
Would take again

rigorous course but if the work is put in you will do good in this class. Study alot of practice problems chapter 9-11 were the hardest for me. if your decent in algebra and memorization you will acced in this course. Put in as many hours of studying as you can. Study until ur eyes hurt, brain pounding, and the overthinking kicks in.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: A
Jul 22, 2022
Would take again

I enjoyed this professor. He was extremely helpful and is the GOAT of professors. LEGEND

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Accessible outside class
4.0
4.0
134
Grade: A-
Jan 23, 2023
Would take again

He is not bad at all. As long as you pay attention to lectures and study you will easily pass his class.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: F
Oct 24, 2023

horrible teacher. is not good at creating exams. would drop out asap

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: A-
Dec 4, 2023

Unless you took AP Chem, take someone else. Lectures are way too fast, and notes are required for proof of attendance even though slides are posted. I stopped attending the last month and scored better by learning from the book. If you know the content well, his exams are pretty easy. No curves, class averages were always 60. Tests aren't too heavy

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: B+
Dec 15, 2023

His tests are impossible. Not sure if this makes sense, but he teaches in circles (will never get to the point and you're not sure what he's trying to teach). I would read before lectures, look at the slides ahead of class, and I'd do every single assignment, yet I would always be confused. Take this class if you have taken AP chem, otherwise...

5.0
4.0
134
Grade: A-
Jan 1, 2024
Would take again

Chemistry is a class that requires effort. It is not difficult if you actually try. Professor Lawson is a really cool and chill teacher overall. If you don't understand his concepts just read the book it's not hard. Overall, he's a really funny and nice guy. the tests are not difficult at all.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Gives good feedback
3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: B
Jan 23, 2024
Would take again

I wouldn't say he's a great lecturer but he's not awful. He just goes really quickly through the material and mostly reads off the slides. He does a lot of in-class examples. There are many opportunities to get small amounts of points, I honestly think they helped my grade though so I'd recommend going for them.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: B
Nov 3, 2024

The class is pretty tough, but worth the effort. Professor Lawson moves quickly through the material, so stay on top of the readings and practice problems. unstuck ai was a lifesaver for preparing for his exams.

1.0
5.0
134
Nov 17, 2024

Don't take him, I swear he is the worst. He flies through the material and only read off slides. He expect you to know everything and going through the material as we are experts and he's only here to review it. Exams are so sooo hard 10 pages exam with subjects that he didn't even talked about in class. I had to learn everything by myself.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
134
Grade: B+
Nov 17, 2024

If you ask him a question he just says "just answer it" and when i went to his office hours to dicuss something he wanted me out of there asap, even though planned the time to meet. When a personal issue arose he told me to just with draw from his class even thought I had a 85% in the class and brought it to his attention immediately. Doesnt care.

3.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: B
Jan 21, 2025

I wouldn't take him again bc I felt like lecture was pointless, he's not great at explaining concepts. i took ap chem in high school so I already understood a lot, i just needed to put the work in, but if u didn't I would NOT recommend. I learned mainly from the book, barely ever from his slides. the exams were different than what he'd tell us.

3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: A
Jan 23, 2025
Would take again

Professor Lawson is an average professor. His lectures are quick, but lots of the stuff he says is in the textbook. He tells you questions to expect on exams. If you use the textbook a lot and take notes from it you should be able to get a good grade in the class. He posts previous exams to study from which helps.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
4.0
134
Grade: B
Sep 29, 2025

Very monotone

1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 30, 2025

Seems like a nice guy at first, but doesn't know how to teach at all. He writes things down on the board and moves on without explaining anything. Flips through the slides so fast you can't even read/write anything down. Doesn't curve ANYTHING and gets mad at the class when they do poorly on the exam when it was mostly his fault.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM134
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 28, 2025

Don't get me wrong he's a nice guy but he doesn't know how to teach. He moves through each material quickly, he's very vague with his "explanations". He puts material on the board and reads it.. that's his explanation. Does not do curves, he gets mad when we do poorly on the tests but when you go to him for an explanation he repeats what is written

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
3.0
CHEM134
Grade: B
Nov 4, 2025
Would take again

He's not the worst professor for gen chem, but he often speeds through the slides so invest in a tablet if you can. His practice exams are similar to the actual exam, but you still need to do majority of the studying on your own. Honestly, if you do the homework assignments and do well in your lab, you should be able to get by with a decent grade.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
134
Grade: B
Nov 12, 2025
Would take again

90% of homework is on pearson. Remaining 10 class worksheets. He thinks we're in a speed run and have to finish early. We completed all chapters including the information needed for the final before we took the third exam. Overrall getting a B is very doable due to weight of quizzes and homework, but to get an A expect to do lots of self studying.

Get ready to read
3.0
4.0
CHEM134
Grade: A-
Dec 3, 2025
Would take again

You need to pay attention in lectures and actually try to learn the material. You don't necessarily need the textbook to study, but you do need it for the homework, so you have to buy the textbook. 3 tests, 3 quizzes, and 1 final. It is a tough course, but very possible to get a good grade. I think Lawson is better than most of these reviews.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

65%

Textbook Required

27%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 36 grades
Most common grades:
B+ (8)
A (7)
A- (7)
Grade Distribution
A(9)B(7)C(2)D(2)F(1)A-/B+(15)
Based on 39 reported grades
B+: 8
A: 7
A-: 7
B: 7
Common Tags
Get ready to read (12)
Test heavy (10)
Lecture heavy (10)
Participation matters (6)
Clear grading criteria (6)
Tough grader (6)
Tough Grader (4)
Accessible outside class (3)
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