Before I took this class, Philosophy seemed complicated & abstract, but Prof. VanVleet made it understandable, interesting, & even meaningful! I'm even thinking about minoring or majoring in Philo because of this class. Simply showing up for class (which was interesting & fun in itself) and doing the assignments results in a good grade.

Professor Van Vleet is a very kind, intelligent and helpful man. I learned so much from his Asian religion class, he made everything seem so simple even the most complex ideas. And he was so open to hearing everyones opinions, and he never made anyone feel stupid or insecure about any of their opinons. He is a great teacher!Take his class!

One of the best professors I have ever had in any subject. He is devoted to the material and completely unbiased. He understands how students learn and his course reflects it. However, involvement in discussion in his class is necessary (a good thing in my opinion).

Definately Mr. UBER PHILOSOPHER. Doesn't give BS or busy work. Genuinely interested in his subject matter. Just be prepared to participate, luckily he let me talk about my Christian stuff. Finally a teacher who knows what the deal is.

Great professor! Makes religion and philosophy interesting and relevant. A younger professor who is professional but keeps it REAL. Obviously passionate about the topic. He is kind and open to students' ideas and questions, so don't be afraid to participate (plus it's part of your grade).

Van Vleet is probably my favorite professor at any school. He is very down to earth and really values everyones opinions. He will never take sides, unless the class asks him to or everyone has had a chance to make their point (even then he tries to refrain). Class is not too hard and not too easy. I recommend you take any class with him.

He is a wonderful instructor and an awesome person. I like how he does not choose sides and lets everyone contribute their opinions without making them feel stupid for thinking a certain way. He knows what he is talking about and how to explain the concepts of propaganda, fallacies, and overall critical thinking. Take his class and you will not be

He is passionate about his craft and it shows. His students benifit from being intelectualy challenged and encoraged to participate. We should be gratefull to have him here, He's to good to stay at DVC!

He is passionate about his craft and it shows. His students benifit from being intelectualy challenged and encoraged to participate. We should be gratefull to have him here, He's to good to stay at DVC!

TAKE THIS CLASS. Prof. Van vleet is a awesome teacher he makes sure everyone understands the material , he really listens to his students thoughts o subjects , and doesn't judge you for have a different opinion than him. He doesn't have a formal text book , instead he has everyone get a couple philosophy books like "Plato's Republic".

He was awesome! He is so passionate about what he speaks and he really believes that people who think about life are better off. Take anyone of his classes, he's that good!

AWESOME!

He is my favorite professor of all time. He is into what he teaches with a passion, loves great discussion, is extremely flexible and understanding, and is completely unbiased. I have yet to meet anyone who regrets taking his course... I've already taken 3!

If you ever asked yourself what the Philosophy is all about, then you need to take Mr. Van Vleet's class. He is super interesting, spontaneous, funny, helpful. The most interesting class I have taken so far. I took it as a prereq. and am glad I did. I am pretty sure his classes will be filled asap, so register for it ASAP.

An amazing teacher, best I have had. He is epitome of what a teacher should be, and one of the wisest people I know. He is not afraid to discuss controversial topics. I promise you that you will not find a better philosophy teacher. Be in class on time ready to discuss and you will have a great experience. *Note: participation is 15% of your grade.

Participating in class discussions is mandatory. Attendance is also mandatory. Points will be taken off for either of these. Bring your books every day. It isn't used every day and he wont tell you when you do need it but he will go off if you don't have it. Other than that, this is an easy class. Tests are easy. I've passed them all with 100%

One of the best teachers I have ever had. Take him if you can You will not be disappointed. A real honest enlightened person.

Best teacher I have ever had, not to mention the hottest... makes class very interesting and doesnt BS any topic as well as ensures everyone understands the material TAKE THIS CLASS wihtout a doubt I'd recommend him to anyone

Mr VanVleet is one of the best teachers ive ever had! i wasnt very interested in philosophy but i enjoyed his class so much. he is an excellent teacher that actually enjoys teaching. I highly recommend taking him! if you study your notes, understand the concepts and just listen or engage in the discussions then u will do very well in his class.

Jacob is by far the best Professor I've ever had. He's clear and genuinely cares about the material and his students. While I'm still pursuing a business degree, his class made me want to also major in Philosophy. He has a hard shell the first day of class, and detests students who don't want to be there. Show up, show respect, and you'll love it.

I will go against the grain here. He's definitely competent, but not as good as everyone else makes him out to be. He is a cool, competent teacher, but nothing he says/does makes him stand out particularly. If you want to take a philosophy course, I recommend him, but to me he wasn't the greatest teacher...I've had much better. Solid, nice, clear.

"let go of the banana"

Like what everyone else has said, Jacob does have a hard shell. I thought he came off as intimidating, but if you participate in class and go to his office hours, he'll definitely become more friendly. He even asks how you are when you visit. He tells you what material to review, but doesn't tell you exactly what is on every test.

Fairly descent professor overall. He engages the class, stays on topic for the most part, and clearly explains the points at hand. If I had to mention one complaint it would have to be that the discussions weren't challenging enough, just skimming the surface of what could be explored at length. Perhaps, however, this is what other students want.

He comes across as arrogant and strict at first, but he is actually a very nice and intelligent man. His class was what I expected of a college course. He doesn't hold your hand - but he does present the material in a way that is easy to understand. Show up, take notes, study for tests and you should do fine.

I loved his class. He does a great job of explaining different philosophies so that you don't have to try to figure it out on your own with those difficult philosophy booklets. As long as you take notes (and look over them thoroughly before the test) and participate it's not hard. He's also incredibly handsome (but rather intimidating).

Took both 130 and 224. Excellent teacher, loves philosophy. Makes you read primary texts,which is very helpful if you are a philosophy major/minor. Grade is heavily based on attendance and participation. May come across as cold and apathetic, but is a great guy if you ask him questions and show that you care about the class. Not a slacker class tho

I've taken like five classes with this teacher. He's the most amazing teacher I've ever had, and the subject was not my original major, but after his classes, it is. Classes are interesting, great content, he is the prime example of a good college professor, classes are fun and he's a great guy. Take any class with him you can, they all transfer.

I think this is a complicated subject but he makes it so easy! All these fallacies are stuck in my head and they do help. He's amazing. my grade was an A. but you do have to attend every class! And read! not much HW

Nice professor. Just show up everyday, take notes, and read his books. 2-3 actual exams/quizzes (no multiple choice), 1 essay and participate in class discussions. Overall an easy class if you attend class everyday and take good notes.

Great teacher, very passionate about religion and philosophy. I feel that he has done an amazing job at presenting philosophy in a way that has allowed me to think for myself. A few tips: participate often, do not miss class, do not argue with him if you have not thought seriously about the topic. Great guy overall, highly recommended.

Intimidating and doesn't appear to be very approachable. One on one is a bit better though. Do not be late, he will stare you down. Be ready to speak up. Apart from that I'd recommend him. He truly cares about the material he teaches. Few quizzes, midterm, one paper, and the final (No multiple choice).

I took his 120, 224 and I'm planning to take his 225. What can I say? The best professor in the entire universe.

The course material was presented in a clear, organized, and accessible manner. Mr. Vanvleet was enthusiastic and passionate about the course material, which is a hallmark of a great teacher. Dare to do the work, participate in discussion, and challenge your own thinking, and you will succeed.

dont be late, participate in class discussions. Got a question ask! Great teacher, one of the best teacher i've have ever taken. Kees the class interesting and clear. Its was 8am class, i went to this class every day, but ditched my 10am class after that. shows how interesting the class was.

he was great really made all of it so simple

VanVleet was a great teacher. He really cares about the success of his student. He made everything clear and precise.The class focues more about you learning the material than a grade. As a transfer student I now wish that there were more philo teachers like him.

Van Vleet is a fantastic teacher, he starts the course off and seems rude, but once week two starts he's a really cool guy. He clearly knows a ton about the subject and as long as you attend lectures its a fairly easy class, would highly recommend.

At first glance, he may seem strict, somber, or even gloomy, but he is unbelievably personable and kind. Pay every attention to his wording. He may sound not good at verbal explanation, but he points out everything you need to know. Great teacher and great class. I highly recommend him & his class.

Takes strict command of his class in the beginning but then has an uncanny ability to connect and support his students at every level using wisdom, intuition, and compassion. Too many Professors are old school, especially in Philosophy. Jacob is the best and beyond average!

Fantastic professor with a true passion for the material. Attendance is expected and participation is mandatory but it's easy to participate because much of the class is discussion. Do the reading because he teaches classes to UC standards. Really enjoyed his class and I learned much more than I expected to.

I took his class in the summer and I thought it was going be a nightmare. He is intimidating at first and I have no clue why. He is such an amazing professor and person! His class is very interesting and he cares deeply about the subject matter. All he wants is for his students to participate and respect what he is teaching. WARNING: Don't be late!

Van Vleet is truly great. I never took Philosophy prior to this semester, but now I absolutely love it and Van Vleet is a large reason for it. Don't let his demeanor in the 1st couple of classes fool you; take the course and you will understand why people love this guy. He makes it clear what to expect on exams, grading is fair. He is great!

This is a must take course. Learning to analyze and critically think is so important. Besides that, taking this course from him was a fantastic experience; all of the students love and respect this guy. He is passionate about learning and wants students to succeed not just in his course but in becoming an intelligent person. He is a must take!

VanVleet is a truly unique professor. His class primarily involves discussion and lecture. VanVleet opens the floor for discussion of the reading assignments every day. If you don't do the readings and contribute in class, it's almost impossible to get an A. His class is a great place to develop ideas and convey them to others. Great educator.

Seriously, this guy LOOKS like some Greek philosopher the way he styles his hair and beard. Really enjoyed his class, which is largely based on discussions and primary text readings. Might be intimidating at first, but don't let that fool you. He's extremely knowledgeable and passionate in the subject. One of the best professors at DVC, hands down.

Overall great professor. Very clear in lectures. He will let you know what to expect in quizzes and tests. But don't ever be late, especially in the final exam. He refused to let a girl take the final exam because she was late in my class.

Loved this class! Prof is passionate and well educated about the topic. His love of Philosophy is evident in his teaching style. Class participation is the key to passing this class. He quizzes and tests aren't easy, no multiple choice, so you will have to learn and study. If you pay attention, raise your hand and your voice, and study, easy A.

I took philo-130 over the summer because it was a requirement for my major at UC. I wasn't expecting to enjoy this class at all, but Professor VanVleet made this class very straight forward & interesting. He picks great content, is an engaging lecturer & is incredibly accessible. He is somehow no-nonsense & laid back simultaneously. Great professor

Great teacher. H comes off as a jerk in the begining but it's crazy how fast that skin sheds. He's a very intelligent man who really knows his subject. There is seldom (if ever) homework - just to study lecture notes and come to class prepared. Respect him and his class and you will get the same in return.

Van Vleet definitely comes off as a hardass, and he definitely shoots straight. His style is easy to get used to, however, and he'll soften up as the class gets to know each other, and you'll find that he's not shy to dole out compliments where they're due. His quizzes and exams can be a bit confusing, but you'll succeed if you've paid attention.

After the first week and a half I was honestly afraid he'd be boring but then this lil humor started to come out&as class progressed he really grew on me. He's a great teacher. I ended up loving his class&how he teaches. I want him for all my philo classes. He works hard to present material in a balanced way. Pay attention to lectures&u should pass

Interesting lectures. Really tries to make you understand and will give real world examples to help you grasp a point. Tells you exactly what will be on a test however they are written response. No homework. Show up to class pay attention and you will pass.

I really enjoyed attending his class! He is an amazing professor!

He gives 3 quizzes, 1 midterm, 1 final, 1 short paper (1 page) and 1 final paper (6-8 pages). As long as you participate in his class, give your opinion critically, STUDY FROM THE LECTURE NOTES, skim the chapters assigned for quizzes and thoroughly read & memorise the glossary at the back of the textbook (Pojman), you'll DEFINITELY get an A! BEST!

In Professor VanVleet, you won't only learn the theories of philosophy but will also gain critical thinking skills. He is very humble and is willing to help you should you need it. His class is very enjoyable and is a very enlightening experience.

Best. Book-club. Ever. After presenting and discussing material, he will have left you thinking in some profound and rational process over the most intriguing topics related to philosophy.

Vanvleet is an excellent prof. I took the religious studies course and he's very straightforward and informative while also being sensitive to those with certain religious beliefs. His class was super interesting and he's very engaging. For exams, the book helps, and just write your best- if you participate he'll grade you graciously.

Very passionate about the subject. Make it easy to understand. Studying and keeping up with the material is definitely required because of the subject matter. Good summer class if you want to get it over with (it cuts the work load by a lot, but it is more intense).

Vanvleet is a great professor. He loves the subject, and will answer your questions the best he can. Reading the chapters in the books he assigns is mandatory because the questions on the quizzes/ test will come straight from there and the lecture .

Took 130,224,225 - all A's. VanVleet is truly a gem, there are good reasons why students love to learn from him. Don't let the hard front at the onset of the semester throw you. He is clear, genuine, accepting of opinions, and ready to help you if you need it. At transferring to Cal, I miss VanVleet's classes, he really is one of the best.

One of the best Philosophy professors available at DVC

Taught logic well, is one of the outright best Philosophy professors at DVC. Prof VanVleet is knowledgeable, works with students, and cares.

Professor Jacob's lecture was great and clear, but in order to pass the class you need to work really hard. There were 4-5 quizzes including midterm and final including a final paper. All the quizzes and tests are free response questions, so you really need to focus on your lecture notes and reading materials.

I loved dr vanvleet. he is intense but if you care and make an effort, hes actually very nice. don't be late or miss class. do the reading.

Professor Vanvleet's class is a great class to take, especially if you are a philosophy major, or are interested in it. Most of his tests are based on lecture and occasional reading, so borrow notes if you miss class. Ask him questions if you do not understand something, especially concerning the readings. Questions are clear and straightforward.

Dr. Van Vleet 's lectures on complicated philosophical topics are easy to understand and allows for plenty of thoughtful discussions. He may seem a bit stand-offish or mean the first few classes, but he truly cares for his students' wellbeing. His classroom a classic 'you get out what you put in' sort of structure.

Van Vleet's class is extremely challenging. I do not recommend this class to anyone that does not want to dedicate a substantial amount of time to studying. He gives the BEST lectures, but all quizzes are difficult short answer and he will give you a zero for more than 4 grammatical errors in the essays. Highly recommend for philo majors.

Dr. VanVleet is a great professor. You can tell he's incredibly passionate about what he does, and has much knowledge to pass on to his students. Work load is nearly nonexistent, minus several exams and a paper. However, the exams can be quite difficult. I wish I would have taken him for Philo 120!

Dr. VanVleet makes a difficult class enjoyable. If you show up to every lecture and do the reading, an A is doable. He is one of the most caring professors at DVC and wants his students to succeed. I definitely recommend taking this class if you want to expand your knowledge.

Don't let him scare you! The first week of class he talks a lot about how hard the course is, but once you start he's a really good teacher so it's not incredibly difficult after all. He grades tests fairly, and his study notes are very in-depth, so you will not see anything on the test he didn't talk about in class. Class before quiz is study time

Respect Van Vleet, respect the course and the material and you'll see success. Don't and it could become a long semester. The reading takes time to complete thoroughly, especially as a lot of the pieces read will be a mouthful. Stay on top of the already minimized workload and seek help when needed, and you'll be golden.

I took his Intro to Philo class and LOVED it! First week seemed intimidating at first, especially since I didn't do well in highschool & didn't know what to expect. His lectures aren't your typical powerpoint & talking all day, it's interactive & you will find yourself engaging in class. He's also a super nice and chill guy, and will help you

I loved this prof--had him for comparative religion, all online. His lectures were clear and fascinating, the readings engaging and not too heavy, and the assignments always very clear and doable. Nothing too heavy expected, which is nice since it was online. No busy work. Very good class, and I learned a ton without any stress. Highly recommend!!!

Great job!

Trust me, his lectures are amazing, awesome and INTERESTING! He knows what he is teaching, and I would say that is the most impressive thing! Not a tough grader in exams if you understand the general concepts. Manageable workload. He even made me wanna change my major to Philosophy!

Very easy class to get an A in, but Prof. Van Vleet's the best when you show him that you care. When you do, he's very relaxed, willing to talk philosophy, and will help you to the best of his ability. Heads up, tech isn't allowed in his class, but his lectures make up for it. Provides all textbooks and films. overall, amazing prof.

I'm not even much of a reader, but this class was manageable. Prof. is very passionate about what he teaches, making the lectures very interesting. He was intimidating first day of class, but is actually laid-back and an easy grader. Exam questions are similar to HW, so as long as you complete that (and, of course, read), you'll ace this class.

Professor Jacob Van Vleet was a great professor. However, his online class was challenging. For example, once you answer a question while taking the quiz and move on to the next one, you cannot go back to change your response. Make sure to submit work on time because he makes no exceptions for late work. It is best to take his classes in person.

Genuinely one of the best profs at DVC. Dude cared about the classes, his students, and wasn't doing this to make a quick buck. No tech, but provided all the required material, and was a great person to talk philo with. Cannot recommend enough.

Wonderful teacher and very knowledgable! I learned a lot, even though philosophy isn't my strong suit. Quizzes are frequent, but not hard if you read the PDFs he provides on canvas. Super insightful lectures and responds to emails fairly quick. He is willing to help if you are struggling and very caring and supportive. Would take again!

Great professor, I absolutely loved attending to class because of the way he teaches, he truly cares about his students passing, there's a lot of reading but overall a great class

He seems pretty passionate about the subject(s) he teaches. Coursework is very manageable and tells you exactly what the quizzes will be on. He also replies to emails and grades work very quickly. You won't have to guess what you're being quizzed on or what your final grade will be. Would definitely recommend taking his class & would take it again.