3.8

Fredric Shaffer

Psychology - Truman State University

3.8
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
52%
Would Retake
88
Reviews
3.8
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
3.8
Helpful
3.9
Clarity

52%

Would Retake

88

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

46

4

17

3

8

2

9

1

8

What Students Say

To make an "A" you really need to work for it

PSYC266 - 3.0 rating

His lectures added very little to the class

PSYC430 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

88%

Textbook Required

0%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 27 grades
Most common grades:
A (14)
B (4)
Not sure yet (4)
Grade Distribution
A(17)B(6)C(3)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 31 reported grades
A: 14
B: 4
Not sure yet: 4
A+: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (14)
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Clear grading criteria (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (5)
Test heavy (5)
Respected (4)
EXTRA CREDIT (4)
Lecture heavy (4)
Rating Trend

Declining

-1.37 avg change
Jan
Aug
Sep
Jan
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

EXPPSYCH266

5.0

(1)

EXPPSYC

5.0

(1)

PYSC266

5.0

(1)

PSYC1

5.0

(1)

PSYCH430

5.0

(1)
+16 more courses
Difficulty by Course

321

4.5

PSYCH334

4.5

PSYCH321

4.3

EXPPSYCH266

4.0

PSYC1

4.0

Reviews (88)
5.0
3.0
PSYC166
Jul 20, 2005

I have taken his online PSYC 166 course, and I loved it. He did a great job, and there is no reason not to get an A.

4.0
3.0
PSYC266
Jul 31, 2005

He was a very good professor, It was the same thing every class,(power point lecture, then 5 point quiz at the end) and it is very computer based, but it was good. The end was a little rough, and my grade slipped, but you learn a lot, and it sticks with you.

5.0
4.0
EXPPSYCH266
Oct 13, 2005

He is really good at teaching and goes over all the material with you that you need to know. He gives outlines of exactly what is going to be on the exams and quizes. I recommend him.

5.0
3.0
EXPPSYC
Jan 4, 2006

Very friendly and articulate. Routine class: powerpoint with lecture and 5 point quiz every day. Don't get behind. Extra Credit opportunities: DO THEM. Nice guy with some interesting stories. Boring material (he tried to make it interesting. Tried...). Overall so-so. With a better subject I might have enjoyed class more. Very helpful gradewise.

5.0
3.0
PSYCH321
Apr 8, 2006

He knew what he was talking about and really succeeded with his "take-home messages" when he tried to make all the information connect to daily life. He's very friendly, organized, and sticks to his syllabus unlike most others. Recommended.

1.0
5.0
321
May 4, 2006

I took him for experimental and he was easy so i thought i would take him again. quizes are pretty easy but test r really hard, and half of the class is lost and you can study for hours and still do really bad on the exams. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!!!

4.0
3.0
PSY334APPLIED
May 8, 2006

Must go to class and read power points ahead of time. Overall class is boring but can be easy at times powerpoint quizes are ok at times unless he makes them hard. I liked that we had plenty of room for error class is hard to get an A but is possible B are very very common 2 or C's at the most.I also liked that it was very little work.

5.0
2.0
PSYC166
Sep 26, 2006

I took his online gen psych class in the summer of 2006 and loved it. Had plenty of time to do required work whcih was basically read a chapter do a quiz. You can use the book for the tests and quizzes you are not timed. Final was pretty rough but if you did well on all the work in the summer all you need to obtain is a 62-64 percent on the final.

5.0
1.0
PSYC266
Dec 22, 2006

Easy class. Go through a Powerpoint and take a 5-question multiple choice quiz each day; he drops the 3 lowest scores at the end of the semester. 4 unit exams + comprehensive final, all multiple choice. Plenty of extra credit, easy A.

5.0
3.0
PSYC321
Apr 28, 2007

Lectures from Powerpoints, all of which are on BB. Tests are hard, but if you review the powerpoints & study the book they're fine. Great guy and good professor.

3.0
4.0
PSYC321
Mar 29, 2008

This is a hard class that goes really in depth, and the tests and quizzes are extreamly detailed. I wouldn't recommend it unless you have a background in biology. The only reason I'm passing is because I took anatomy and physiology.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH266
Jun 11, 2008

Dr. Shaffer is great. He's not confusing. He's not frustrating. Come to class. Read assigned text beforehand so you'll do well on the daily quizzes(5pts) because they can really help your grade. Take advantage of extra-credit opportunities. Put effort into studying for tests, it'll pay off! Oh, he brought his dogs to class. That was refreshing.

4.0
3.0
PSYC266
Oct 19, 2008

While he is a very nice man, keep in mind that you take a quiz EVERY SINGLE DAY. I have a B in there because of all these quizzes. So be warned.

5.0
2.0
PSYC266
Oct 23, 2008

Shaffer is an extremely kind man who really seems to care about his material and his students. He really wants you to learn the stuff, and the 5 point quizzes and "Clash of the Groups" are pretty much free pts. Boring subject, though.

4.0
5.0
PSYC321
Dec 12, 2008

Very interesting class, but a challenge. The first test was interesting since we have instant score feedback. I saw one cryer and about 5 pissed off looks. The mean went from a 60 something up to an 80 something. If you take this class, don't fall behind. Be ready to read a lot and use the many online resources he provides.

5.0
2.0
PYSC266
Apr 12, 2009

Dr. Shaffer is a very well organized professor who sticks to the syllabus. I learned a great deal from Experimental Psych, and I'd have to say he is one of the best teachers I've ever had. You do need to study and come to class, but if you put in effort you will do just fine.

4.0
2.0
PSYC266
May 1, 2009

cool guy. kinda hippie-like to me. funny at times. quiet and monotones at times, but i love him. he is helpful and very organized. you will have a quiz every class worth 5 pts. tests worth 50. everything MC, no writing at all. no papers. (which i hated, but others loved) notes and podcasts of lectures are online. pretty easy.

4.0
5.0
PSYCH334
Mar 29, 2010

I've had him for two semesters in a row now. overal hes very much suited to be a teacher. slightly dry sence of humor that i think I'm the only one who finds him funny. very structured class. quiz every day, 10 pts. extra credit possible. He's sometimes intimidating due to his extreme knowledge of the subject but don't let it stop you from raising

5.0
2.0
PSYCH266
Apr 23, 2010

Great teacher! Even better research team!

5.0
2.0
PSYCH266
Jul 31, 2010

Experimental psych was the first class that I took with Dr. Shaffer. I found myself enjoying it so much that I signed up for 3 more of his classes. His class is well-organized. His humor is subtle and smart. He genuinely enjoys all of his students and encourages everyone to participate.

4.0
3.0
PSYC266
Sep 3, 2010

My favorite professor at Truman thus far. Cares tremendously about his students and their feelings. I got a B because I forgot to take a few online quizzes - don't forget! But his sense of humor and vast knowledge of the subject kept my attention all semester.

5.0
4.0
PSYCH334
Oct 29, 2010

possible one of the most knowledgeable and reputable professors in their field (Biofeedback)i have had at Truman. This class is tough but he structures it to keep you on top of the info. grading if fair (no papers) READ THE BOOK

5.0
3.0
PSYC334
Mar 30, 2011

Dr. Shaffer is an expert in the field of Biofeedback and is very active in research. He is dedicated to his students and is approachable and helpful. Daily quizzes and an interactive online textbook make this class 100% doable. Physiology is a big part of the class, but don't be too intimidated; the subject matter will keep you interested!

3.0
5.0
PSYC321
Oct 27, 2011

He goes WAY too in depth. Hope you have a photographic memory for this class because you have to know the most useless information to pass a test. You can study for hours, do online extras, look over powerpoints, study with others, and study the clash notes and still fail a test. Don't be fooled by 266 or lower classes!!! DO NOT TAKE THIS class!!!

5.0
3.0
PSYC321
Oct 31, 2011

Despite what some people have said, Physiological Psych is not a terribly difficult class. It certainly requires a lot of time, so I would not advise taking it in a full semester; however, if you read the chapters over thoroughly before each test and know specific details, it's doable. He can be particular, but even the small details relate well.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH266
Oct 31, 2011

Dr. Shaffer is well organized, clear and concise. There is a 5 point quiz everyday, so you must attend class and read the book. So exams are not as high pressure, but focus is pretty key. The class is rather dry. Dr. Shaffer is an excellent teacher, gives research opportunities, but is sometimes hard to locate during office hours. I'd say "yes".

5.0
4.0
PSYC321
Oct 31, 2011

I felt compelled to review the Physiological Psych class given the prior negative review. Do not be fooled. I've taken 4 of his classes. The class IS demanding (mostly because biological psych is new territory for some). Dr. Shaffer is a top notch professor who provides ample resources to do your best in the class. Put in the time? You'll be fine!

5.0
4.0
PSYC321
Oct 31, 2011

Favorite class/professor. He cares about his students & ensures they have adequate help to succeed. Take the practice quizzes, the ?s are on the tests. He's superior to the psyc staff in his expertise in both applied psychology and the underlying neuroscience. He could trump most of the bio staff in his knowledge of cell function. TAKE THIS CLASS!!

4.0
4.0
PSYC266
Nov 2, 2011

Brilliant teacher. Daily quizzes so you have to read everyday. All quizzes and tests are online in the classroom. Get involved in his research team!

3.0
2.0
PSYCH266
Nov 2, 2011

I think this class was taught in a way that was easy to understand. The daily quizzes ensured that I stayed up to date with the material covered in class. I would highly recommend this Dr.Shaffer as an instructor for this class.

5.0
1.0
PSYC266
Nov 2, 2011

Dr. Shaffer is a great teacher. He is able to quickly and effectively cover all the material while still ensuring most students understand the material. All in all, I learned a lot.

5.0
4.0
PSYC1
Nov 6, 2011

This was one of the coolest classes I've taken at Truman. The content was interesting and it was presented in a clear concise way. It was a difficult class, but not because the professor presented material in a difficult way or because the tests were too hard. I'd take more classes in psychopharmacology in a second if I had the option.

4.0
5.0
PSYC430
Nov 6, 2011

Lots of reading with test and quiz questions based off of the book.

5.0
3.0
PSYC266
Nov 6, 2011

Dr. Shaffer is a great professor and gives you the resources you need. The material is dry and sometimes hard to get which makes exams somewhat tricky. There is a 5 point quiz everyday but he lets you drop your lowest 3 or use those 3 days to miss class. Quizzes are not hard but the exams are what get people. Class average is 80% right now.

5.0
4.0
PSYCH430
Nov 6, 2011

I also had Shaffer for another one of his classes. They are all similar. A quiz every class. Personally I like this, it makes his classes very structured, gives you chances for points, teaches you how he asks questions, and keeps you on track with the class. You cannot fall behind in this class. He's a very intelligent and funny professor as well.

5.0
4.0
PHYS0
Nov 6, 2011

Good professor. Thorough in his teaching and available to students. Live what he teaches. I learned plenty. Must read text for class and keep up.

5.0
2.0
PSYCHALL
Nov 6, 2011

He is great. Always exactly as he says it will be. Make sure to look over the section and listen in class. 5 pt Quiz at the end of every class with many questions coming straight from lecture. Easy if you just pay attention. Would take him again for any class

5.0
2.0
PSYC321
Nov 6, 2011

Dr. Shaffer is probably the best professor I have had at Truman. Expectations are clearly laid out, so there is no guessing. The grade you get is based on the effort you put in.

5.0
4.0
PSYCALL
Nov 7, 2011

His classes are very interesting and I loved all of them. However, be prepared to study a lot, because they are difficult. Attend class and study for the quizzes and you will be fine.

5.0
2.0
PSYC266
Jan 17, 2012

There are quizzes everyday, but they're not bad if you study the practice quizzes and read the book. Go to class, pay attention, and do the practice tests. You get to take the final with a partner. No papers, just tests and quizzes. I really liked him, but some people think he is boring. Do Extra Credit!

5.0
3.0
PSYCH266
Apr 27, 2012

Dr. Shaffer is great. Although the material isn't the most interesting, he makes it so. He gives you plenty of tools to use to study and really wants you to do well in the class. There are quizzes every day, so be sure to read and do the practice quizzes, as many of the practice quiz and test questions are re-used on the real things.

5.0
1.0
PSYC266
May 4, 2012

I adore Shaffer. Loves his students, and goes out of his way to help you understand. 5 point quiz after every class period, 4 tests and a final. Easy as long as you do the readings. Be cautious about asking or answering a question unless it's well thought out - he may ridicule you for a stupid question/answer. Still love the guy.

5.0
2.0
PSYC321
Mar 24, 2013

Great class which teaches you a lot. Despite what people have said, I have never taken a class of his where "half the class is lost". If you are smart, organized, and have a desire to do well, you can and will get an A. If you do not try, you will do poorly. Not easy, but a great class, the best psych class by far at Truman.

5.0
2.0
PSYC266
Jul 23, 2013

Dr. Schaffer is very personable and makes this class less painful than it feels like will be. He is a very organized professor and is incredibly supportive of his students! I would definitely recommend him as an instructor.

5.0
3.0
PSYC334
Nov 1, 2013

His passion for the subject really shows. 5 point quizzes at the end of each class are very do-able if you pay attention during class, and are a good grade booster. Take detailed notes, read the textbook, and you will have no problem doing very well!

5.0
4.0
PSYC321
Dec 2, 2013

Dr. Shaffer knows everything about the subject! He's great during lecture and very interesting. His tests are very hard because of the amount of material that you have to know but you certainly learn a lot!

5.0
4.0
PHYSPSYCH
Oct 29, 2014

This class is difficult, but is very obviously Dr. Shaffer's favorite to teach. He is a fantastic professor and You will learn a LOT. All the test and quiz material comes from the book, and it's dense, but very interesting. Take him if you want to learn concepts that will probably be relevant throughout your life.

4.0
2.0
PSYC266
Dec 20, 2014

Go to class. YOU NEED TO GO TO CLASS. Do the extra credit. It will SAVE your grade Take the practice quizzestests. He pulls many of the questions for the actual quizzestests directly from the practice (true on the final too!) Lectures are fairly helpful if you can make yourself pay attention. Overall didn't really like Dr. Shaffer though

5.0
4.0
PSYCHOPHARM
Feb 10, 2015

Psychopharm is one of the toughest classes in psychology, but it's also one of the most interesting. Read the textbook, start memorizing drugs and drug classes as soon as possible, and pay attention during lecture. I would around 60-65% of the material requires memorization which isn't difficult but just requires large amounts of time.

1.0
5.0
PSYC321
Mar 16, 2015

no help what so ever. will only refer you to a tutor. won't bump up a grade even if you work your hardest

5.0
3.0
PHYSPSYC
Mar 31, 2015

If you're a bio-driven psych major take Shaffer's classes! If not, DON'T TAKE SHAFFER. Every aspect of the class is organized in the syllabus, from a weekly schedule to how many points you need to get an A. Have to do the reading and review before each class (always a quiz). Demanding, but put the work in and that A will feel so good. So, so good.

5.0
5.0
PSYCH321
Grade: A
Nov 27, 2015

Dr. Shaffer has a real pride in his trade. Constantly tweaking and updating his material to ensure it's relevance and freshness. I have 3 shaffer classes under my belt and every single one was worth the money & time. He's a great guy (with a great sense of humor) who loves his job and does it at the highest level of quality and rigor you'll find.

3.0
4.0
PSYC266
Grade: B-
Dec 10, 2015

435 pts - 32 quizzes (5), 4 exams (50), and a comprehensive final (75). Not an easy class. To make an "A" you really need to work for it. STUDY for those 5 point quizzes they add up. STUDY practice tests, quizzes , and book extensively for exams. Can take the final with a partner. DO EXTRA CREDIT- can save your grade. Does not like stupid answers.

2.0
4.0
PSYC430
Grade: A
Jan 2, 2016

Honestly you should just take this course over the summer online. His lectures added very little to the class. You essentially just memorize the entire textbook and take a quiz every class period. Pretty boring class with an uninspiring professor. I would not recommend the experience.

4.0
4.0
PSYCH266
Grade: B
Mar 2, 2016

He teaches the material well but there is a quiz at the end of every class. I always read the book, which helped, but I only managed to get a B. There is a lot of extra credit. Tests are not bad if you review his practice tests. Same goes for the quizzes. He reuses a few questions from practice tests and quizzes.

3.0
5.0
PSYC321
Apr 5, 2016

Reading the material and spending the average time studying it will not be enough. Quizzes are not too bad but on tests he asks the most obscure and irrelevant questions form the texts.

4.0
3.0
PSYC334
Grade: A
May 3, 2016

This is a difficult class, but if you put in the effort to study notes and pay attention in lecture, you'll do fine. A quiz at the end of every class over what was discussed, not difficult. 4 MC tests and cumulative final you can take with a partner. Offers up to 20 points extra credit. He is very knowledgeable in this subject. Not a bad class!

4.0
3.0
PSYC266
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2016
Would take again

There's a 5-pt quiz at the end of every class, but he pretty much goes over what will be on the quiz during class. I stopped reading the book midway through the semester because he covers literally the whole chapter during class. The material is boring, but it's a pretty easy class.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
PSYCH266
Dec 12, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Shaffer was entirely lecture based, and very rude to students a few minutes late, even if b/c of another class. Does bring his dogs to class though, has daily quizzes, and up to 6 EC points. His fInal can be taken with a partner, and take notes!! Even though his lectures can be a tad boring.

Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
PSYC321
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 9, 2017
Wouldn't take again

200 slide power points. You have to read the book because he asks test questions that he doesn't talk about. Tests are all multiple choice but he asks the most obscure questions and some he never has talked about in class. Super boring class and a horrible lecturer. Rude. Treats students like children. Thinks his class is the most important.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
PSYC166
Grade: B
Nov 3, 2017
Would take again

His class was difficult, he made us take a 5 point quiz every class. Sometimes I felt absolutely lost. But he was always helpful when you asked for help. READ and study for the tests! Good professor nonetheless.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
1.0
4.0
PSYC166
Dec 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I highly recommend to avoid Dr. Shaffer at all costs. He has been an ignorant, rude, and disagreeable professor this entire semester. In addition to his difficult personality, he is a boring lecturer, is unclear with class expectations, and uses class time to discuss his personal life. Please save yourself the pain and take a different professor!

Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
PSYC266
Grade: A+
Dec 20, 2017
Would take again

Very clear in how you will be graded during the semester. there is a quis every day of class but he clearly explains what will be in the quizzes right before taking it. I would definetely take him again.

Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
Would take again
4.0
4.0
PSYC321
Dec 2, 2018
Would take again

This is not an easy A, but it's also not impossibly hard. The practice quizzes, lecture podcasts, learning objectives, and clash powerpoints really helped me to get a good grade. If you use your resources you can definitely get an A, you just have to be willing to study and apply yourself. Shaffer is a nice guy, although lectures can get boring.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
PSYC266
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Shaffer is great! I was intimidated by the class and shouldn't have been. Read the book and go through the resources he gives you and you won't have a problem. Grade consists of daily quizzes, 4 tests, and a final taken with a partner.

2.0
5.0
PSYC321
Grade: B-
Dec 21, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I did not like Dr. Shaffer at all. He makes an already difficult class even harder. There is so much information. The book was so hard to read, I didn't even use it after the first chapter. There is a quiz every day and you can't make them up. Do not miss class. He is also super political and tries to talk about Trump more than psychology.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
PSYC166
Grade: A
Aug 19, 2019
Would take again

I took the online version of this class, and it was pretty easy. The only hard part is that you only have 45 minutes to take the tests, so it can be a little stressful if you don't know all of the answers or are having internet problems. My best advice is to listen to the exam review podcasts because he'll say answers to test questions on there

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Caring
1.0
5.0
PSYCH321
Grade: C
Aug 25, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I'm a senior and he was the worst professor I've ever had. Quiz every class period, really hard to get a 4 or 5 out of 5. Very easy to fail this class. Most students didn't do well. Tests are 35 points, and very specific one liners in the book. I highly recommend finding a different professor or class to take. Avoid Shaffer.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
PSYC430
Grade: A+
Dec 10, 2019
Would take again

Dr. Schaffer was awesome! He did a great job at explaining concepts in the most practical way. Nearly every concept was related to the most recent research. The class was also low stress because every test was taken with a partner. Along with that he gave study guides, kahoots, and practice tests. I learned a lot more with less effort.

2.0
2.0
PSYC334
Grade: B
Feb 21, 2020
Wouldn't take again

So boring. So Monotonous. Did not pay attention in class at all and still got a B. Easy setup of class. Quiz every single day. He gives good reviews for the tests. Beware how you approach him, he can be very rude sometimes.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
5.0
4.0
PSY334APPLIED
Grade: A
Jun 19, 2020
Would take again

The GOAT

Accessible outside class
Get ready to read
Hilarious
2.0
3.0
PSYC321
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Shaffer is a nice enough guy, but a bad professor. Doesn't actually teach, just assigns chapters and tests over obscure passages that he thinks are obvious. Most of the material is about nerves and body chemistry, very little actual psychology. Dry, technical. Shaffer is in his own little world while his students struggle. Expect to teach yourself

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
PSYC266
Nov 17, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Not my favorite. Daily pop quizzes.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
PSYC266
Grade: A
Jan 12, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Shaffer is one of the most genuine people you will ever meet. Cares very much about his students and his research. Sends out weekly updates on his life and notes of encouragement to his students.

Respected
Inspirational
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
4.0
PSY334APPLIED
Feb 2, 2022
Wouldn't take again

He is a very smart man, but very dry. He's not great. When I asked how to improve on difficult concepts, I did not get help. Instead, he gave conflicting advice about my progress. By the way, Biofeedback Tutor alone is not a great way to learn. Use the options on BB too. Good luck!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Beware of pop quizzes
1.0
3.0
PSYC321
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 17, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Some people love Dr. Shaffer because he seems like a kind person. However, when it comes down to it, he does not actually care about helping his students succeed. He will not hesitate to fail you for reasons out of your control. He does not help you understand content if you are struggling. He does not provide any accommodations if you need them.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
PSYC321
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 1, 2022
Wouldn't take again

This is no doubt the driest psychology class at Truman, and that is saying something. Dr. Shaffer is notoriously rigid with his students, and will not help you if you need it. Some people who just go to lecture like him, but from what I can gather, anyone who actually interacts with him ends up hating him, so that says something.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
PSY334APPLIED
Grade: C
Apr 6, 2022

I recommend staying away from his class He's fine as a person, but this class feels impossible. We're only graded based on tests and daily quizzes, and the tests are pretty hard because its 90% TF with big words you do not know. His lectures are dry and there is not any organization with slides, he just teaches out of the textbook he wrote.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
PSY334APPLIED
Grade: C
Apr 24, 2022

The longer I am in this class the more I hate it. It is almost impossible to study and learn in this class. The material is way too much cuz he wrote his own textbook and doesn't specify what you need to know. Online materials are unorganized and there are no slides. I am a straight A student with a C in this class. Class is unenjoyable.

Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
PSYC321
Grade: A-
May 11, 2022

He is too smart to be teaching, and he gets off on being the smartest person in the room. All grades are based on tests and daily quizzes. It's not impossible, but just be prepared.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
4.0
321
Grade: A
Apr 6, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Shaffer is so open-minded and incredibly experienced in his field. He cares about his students and really cares about the material he teaches. I 100% would take a class with him again.

Amazing lectures
Respected
3.0
2.0
PSYC266
Grade: A
Jan 11, 2024
Would take again

5 question quiz every class and you get a 0 if you skip (they're easy though). READ THE TEXTBOOK, even if you don't want to; many people failed the tests because they didn't read. Take notes on the reading and in class (even if his lectures are boring and off topic). Take the practice quizzes/tests.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Beware of pop quizzes
4.0
4.0
PSYCH321
Grade: B
Aug 26, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Shaffer was an amazing professor. I had him a couple years ago and during this time he was diagnosed with cancer. He remained positive and continued to share his love for psychology with his students. There is a quiz everyday in his courses but he literally gives you the answers at the beginning of the class period. Get ready to read though!

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Caring
2.0
4.0
PSYC266
Grade: A
Sep 23, 2024

Dr. Shaffer locks quizzes (at the end of every class) with a password so you have to be there to take them. They're 5 points each but they add up quick. You get to drop your lowest, but you better have a doctor's note if you want to skip any more. He adores the textbook, so read it if you want to do well on quizzes/exams. Anything could be on there

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
2.0
PSYC266
Grade: A
Jan 17, 2025
Would take again

Shaffer really cares about his students, he wants the best and sometimes this means being direct and blunt, however, he is funny and when contacted will do his best to help.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
PSYC321
Grade: A
Jan 17, 2025
Would take again

The information he provided was put in context, you could apply what you learn and carry it with you.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
2.0
PSYCHOPHARM
Grade: A
Oct 27, 2025
Would take again

Dr. Shaffer is a great professor, all of the grading comes from multiple choice tests and daily quizzes. He's a very sweet guy. His lectures are a little boring but if you are actually interested in the material you get drawn back in. Overall, he's my favorite professor I've ever taken

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
2.0
PSYC321
Grade: A+
Dec 22, 2025
Would take again

His lectures are boring, I'm not going to lie. But if you make even just a little effort to pay attention during class, you will do fine.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

88%

Textbook Required

0%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 27 grades
Most common grades:
A (14)
B (4)
Not sure yet (4)
Grade Distribution
A(17)B(6)C(3)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 31 reported grades
A: 14
B: 4
Not sure yet: 4
A+: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (14)
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Clear grading criteria (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (5)
Test heavy (5)
Respected (4)
EXTRA CREDIT (4)
Lecture heavy (4)
Rating Trend

Declining

-1.37 avg change
Jan
Aug
Sep
Jan
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

EXPPSYCH266

5.0

(1)

EXPPSYC

5.0

(1)

PYSC266

5.0

(1)

PSYC1

5.0

(1)

PSYCH430

5.0

(1)
+16 more courses
Difficulty by Course

321

4.5

PSYCH334

4.5

PSYCH321

4.3

EXPPSYCH266

4.0

PSYC1

4.0

Similar Professors