2.4
Quality4.1
Difficulty38%
Would Retake205
Reviews38%
Would Retake
205
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
27
4
34
3
34
2
37
1
73
What Students Say
“but once you get to know him, you'll be amazed”
BCS1010 - 4.0 rating“First of all, despite what many say, Dr”
BSC1010ANDLAB - 4.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
88%
Textbook Required
76%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B+
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Stable
-0.19 avg changeRatings by Course
SURVBIO
5.0
(1)BIOLAB
5.0
(1)BSC4
5.0
(1)BSCLAB
4.0
(1)BSC2010
4.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
SURVEYOFBIO
5.0
BSC1045
5.0
BSC1005L
5.0
SURVEYBIO
5.0
BSS1101
5.0
Reviews (205)
Goes over material REALLY fast and doesn't do much explaining, just whips thru it like everyone knows what he's talkin about
could be a great professor if reminded that we need to LEARN the material , not be forcefed it and expect results instantly. other than that nice person.
this class was horrible he's a horrible teacher. the first test had like 100 pages of notes. hes been in trouble with the school for like 5 semesters now, because his curiculum is hard as hell. dont take this course with him!!!!
Really learned a lot from Dr. Backer. He gives vey difficult tests, but decent lectures. And his tests aren't as hard s some would have you believe. If you think he grades hard- good luck taking 4-year University professors.
He moves very fast in class, and makes you feel stupid when you ask questions. He does leave you with a lot to think about and I learned a lot in his class. Not to hard, you just need to work hard.
Don't take his class!! His lectures are extremely boring and his tests are extremely hard.
I actually loved his class(survey of biology). He's funny and very helpful. He uses powerpoint slides, that you can print copies of, for his lectures, which helps. You do have to study alot for his tests, but that helps you to remember the material anyways. I would definately recommend him.
I signed up for this class under the guise of it being what it was, Survey for Biology for NON-SCIENCE MAJORS. Instead, what I got was Advanced Biology for pre-med majors. Don’t take this class if you’re not interested in Biology and need it for the science requirement. Heed my warning.
This has to be the worst teacher i ever had. His tests are extremely difficult, majority of people fail his class. I am also not a science major and thanks to him, i will steer clear of any science for a long time.
Dr. Backer is a great guy. His class is really tough, but he tries to make it amusing by making silly little jokes. His tests are tough, but if you pay attention in class and study the slides(the tests are based more on them than the book), you'll do okay.
Very hard...there has to be about 25-30 students in the class and only one person has an overall average of an A for the test they've taken.
James Backer managed to make a non science major class the hardest classes I've taken in my college carrer only because sitting in his class was worthless. I had to teach myself. And if you thought any of his stupid jokes were funny..Get a life you dorks.... I wouldn't wish this guy on anybody.
Who is Biology and where did they come from? I don't know
worst teacher ever don't recommend him
Put your brain and your lab book in a blender. Cure it then roll into paper.preforate every 6 inches,attach to carbon roll and send it to the Male faculty restroom.that is the only time he will effectively use the materials and you get to see his true self
anyone know how his summer class would be?
Worst teacher I have ever had. I have managed to do great in science, including microbiology, and I am struggling to get a C in his class. He thinks he's funny, but believe me HE'S NOT! Do not take his class if you want to actually pass!!
HORRIBLE TEACHER!!! I have gotten an A in Microbiology which is practically impossible. Anatomy and Physiology I also received an A. But Biology with this teacher and im struggling to get a C. DONT TAKE HIM!! HE thinks hes funny and half the time the students are lost.
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I honestly feel bad for the man. He can't really relate to his students well. He knows the material but doesn't communicate it well half the time. He's a good guy it your really into science its the class for you but if your just trying to get by take another teacher.
Dr Backer is a good teacher, the only way to fail his class is not read the book or study for the tests. If you do both those things, you'll get an A. Don't blame your laziness on him.
This guys a fruitcake. he took attendance in an online class, made it 21% of the grade. other than that, it was the easiest class ive taken, with a 10 question OB quiz each chapter, and a 50 question OB Exam after every 3. 5 insight papers, and that was that. would avoid him in online classes.
Take Cabiac.
Dr. Backer is a very sweet man. My first impression of him was neutral, but as the course continued I realized how much he enjoys his more enthusiastic students. The content is not difficult and the lab work can be entertaining if kind of corny. The only people who don't like him are honestly the ones who don't listen/don't come to class.
why is he not fired yet??? thats what i wanna know!
I thought the class was easy, and Dr.B helped me out alot everytime I had a question. It was a fast paced course, but I still got a B+.
I dropped his class. He spoke as if you knew what was going on. I tried to take Biology for the Fall during the week but he is the only person that teaches the otherare full. So I took a Saturday, yes I gave up Saturday just to avoid this teacher.
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he is sooo boring and he doesnt teach he just showes you powerpoints the entire class that you can see online yourself.
Dr. Backer does not try and control the noise in the class. If you cannot hear the lecture you are not going to pass the tests. He does not do anything when you complain to him about the problems. I would suggest to anyone to take Mr. Cubiac as all costs. Dr. Backer is not a good teacher. Why is he still teaching at DBCC????????
he is an ok teacher. I studied real hard and ended up with a B. I am not a perfect student my gpa is 2.7 he is not the wost teacher I have ever had, the material is just a little hard
His class his so, so boring. Don't waste your time.
He's an ok teacher, it's just there is a lot of content to learn.
He is very goofy and will try to help at times, but is not very helpful.
this guy is funny, he stops for 5 minutes and talks trash on someone who is making noise in the back of class lol. Test r alright just alot of stuff to learn. He doesnt know anything bout biology himself which is quite funny ha....ha...ha :p he does powerpoint everyday and test r ur only grade. Have Fun!
Sooo boring!!! and just not interesting! test r kinda hard but they are multiple choice. one plus is that u can print up the power points offline so u dont have to take notes. if you can find another class then go for it but i guess it could have been worst.
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i absolutely hate his class. the man reminds me of dilbert and is so boring...plus he teaches the theory of evolution like it's a proven fact...
Horrible teacher. Have no idea why he is still teaching. DON'T WASTE YOUR TUITION ON THIS GUY. If you took the book home and read it and didn't understand it, then that is how much your going to understand during lecture. He copies and paste the text and doesn't explain anything in non-science majors terms.
He seems like a nice enough guy, but im not a huge fan of biology anyways. Im praying for a B. My advise would be to go to the bonus lectures and have perfect attendence. Study for the tests and do a good job on the power point. Good luck!
BIGGEST DOUSH BAG ON THE CAMPUS AND LOOKS LIKE AN HOG. DOESNT CARE IF ALL HIS STUDENTS FAIL HIS COURSE. AND WHY DOES DBCC KEEP THIS GUY?!?!?
He is such a ****. Probably the worst teacher I have ever had. He is rude and disrespectful to his students. All he does is color all over the powerpoints which makes them impossible to read. If you can, take another professor. He sucks.
Backer is the worst teacher ever. He is so rude. He treates his students like crap. Even my Biology Lab teacher thinks that he is an idiot. If attendance was not a part of your grade no one would ever go to this class.
this guy is a complete loser, not only at what he does in class but how he is outside of class. The class origanates from only powerpoints which r total bs and tests r hard as helll!! My suggestion is dont pick this guy at all COSTS!! There is no way to pass his class, even coming everyday and studying ur ass off. Worst teacher EVER for 5th semeste
haha i saw an comment posted(by mr.backer himself)cuz they had an 3 and an 4 on it. I failed his class and i got to take it again, no simpity at ALL! Might as well cook this hog under the fire. Just study your powerpoint and do the 3 extra credit provided and wait for the suprise final which will blow u away. Good Luck to anyone takin this guy :-)
horrible
I took this class despite the poor ratings for dr Backer and it wasn't that bad. You basicly don't need the book to study, just follow his power point presentations that you can download from the vc. Questions on the tests come straight from them. Dr Becker is out there in his science world but he's ok.
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Not cool. I study and read all his Presentation, review sheet and Still fail.Not a helpfull guy, everybody I know hate him...
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I studied sooooooo hard in his class and did not do as well as I should have for studying that hard. He talked down to anyone who disagreed with him like him believing in evolution he said that if you dont believe in evolution than you are just plain stupid. I am going to be a teacher and that is not how you teach!
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Well I passed his class with about a 97. All you really have to do is study and memorize the parts that he emphasizes (with red). He is rude at some points and not very helpful, but it is very possible to pass his class.
Despite what people say, he is a pretty good teacher. I'm sorry, but this is called college. It's a place where you work for what you want to become. Honestly, about 60% of the people in that class acted as if they were 12 years old. He gives you good notes, and plenty of time to study. Grow the EFF up.
This guy is a joke, he just uses power points the whole time, what a waste of paper, he isnt very good at lecturing! Is not helpful, at all and just loves to be rude!
Everyone rants and raves on how hard and horrible Dr. Backer is;however, this is not the case what so ever, his tests are directly from his notes, all i did was study his notes thoroughly and i aced every single test, most people did not succeed because they are languid and childish, grow up and study and you'll do fine
The only way i made it through this class was to take something comfortable to sleep on!! haha, this guy is so boring and had no clue!!! He ses power points which he tells everyone to print out and then talks about recycling!!! Way, to waste paper!! Do not take this class he is a nightmare!!!
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Not helpful what so ever. Very condeming. Has a nepolionic complex.
BORING! Puts you right to sleep. Laughs at own jokes! The entire class is ALWAYS half asleep. Power point after power point, that are sometimes helpful. What a waste of time and money.
Boring class, Dr. Backer is not very willing to help students....I am a good student, studied my butt off and didn't get a great grade in his class.....I have an A in all of my other classes.....he really seems like he doesn't care about his students & he expects you to know everything he knows, he was very pompous and kind of **** too
I won't say anything more than those people who rated him before me.....Dr. Baker...your power points are good, your exams are fine, but the problem is on you....Change yourself, please......
Very boring teacher, does PowerPoint after PowerPoint that can be helpful if you read between lines. He's not willing to help anyone, even if you ask for help. He grades unfairly and his tests are hard. He laughs at his own boring jokes and expects everyone to be a whiz in Biology. Not a fun class, he's a horrible teacher, I do not reccomend him.
Overall I'm very disappointed with Dr. Backer.
I don't know why people complain about this teacher. He is doing everything he can to spoon feed you the information with the power points. If you just studied those, you should be able to ace the tests. I disagree that he isn't helpful. He is there for anyone that asks. This is college people. YOU need to work for your grade.
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He is a horrible teacher who doesn't care about his students. His grading system is totally unfair and his notes and reviews for the tests are totally bogus and hardly relate to his topics. Also, if you decide to go to his office to ask for help he's either not there, or will not spend any time trying to help you and will push you right out the doo
He is nice, but doesnt really know how to convey the information
Minimal teaching, no explaination, questions discouraged, borrrring!!
I was looking forward to this class until I got there. While he is rather entertaining, he couldn't care less about the students. He gives out reviews for the test, but a lot of the material on the tests is obscure. Study for this class a lot, especially since the grade is 70% on those tests.
His tests are irrelevant to what he teaches!
He is the worst teacher ever. His tests are 8 questions long, and you have 10 minutes to do them in. I am an A and B student, I got a D in his class. He is so weird too. He takes like a week to e-mail you back, if you have to take this class, with him, DO NOT TAKE IT ONLINE! He is the worst teacher ever, I cannot stress that enough!
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This is a Science class people! The Professor is not there to entertain you. Dr. Backer loves his subject and teaches it to students on their level. Show him effort and an interest and he goes the extra mile to help those students.
he gives outlines and wordpuzzles to help study for tests, so its clear what to study. also he hints during the powerpoints what will be on the test. it's biology so its going to suck regardless of the teacher. he does drop a test grade, and the cumulative "final" is optional and it's curved. the trick to science class is pick a great lab teacher.
He is a bit quirky but if you take the time to know him he is a good guy. His passion for Biology shines thru in his teaching. He is not a free ride. Show up for class, do the work and he will grade you fairly.I don't think Dr.Backer deserves the character assassination he gets on this site. I would gladly take a class with him again.
He doesn't know the material just knows how to lecture what's on the powerpoints. All test are multiple choice including the final exam. Take the final exam even though it is optional because it replaces your lowest grade. When you ask him a question he just reads over the power point again and moves on w/o answering it take someone else if you can
Biology is not an easy subject, you have to study no matter who the teacher is. But Dr. Backer puts all his power points online and gives optional review sheets/crossword puzzles to help you practice for the test. There are also extra credit opportunities. Easy A if you put in the effort. I would definitely recommend him.
Took class as an 8 week online course. Lots of work, but doable if you follow the syllabus. Did have lots of questions at the beginning, but the class went smoothly for me once those were answered. He does take some time to answer back.
He is extremly knowledgable and was fn taken his class.
This is a real College Course. Dr. Backer really requires that you put forth an effort to learn. It was good and I truely learned alot. He is a very fair professsor who is always willing to help. Great class.
TERRIBLE
He is not as bad as majority says..Tests are hard and it requires a lot of studying to get a good grade.We used power points+some extra notes during the class + book + practice tests from the supplementary CD help to prepare for the test. I am taking 3 classes-majority of my time spend on this class. Hoping to get A..
This is college and he has a Doctorate and it's Biology. This class is not for slackers, but Dr. Backer presents the information well and expects you to study. My method was a mix of class notes and the book. I enjoyed the class and would take from him again. I didn't notice my classmates having any problems either. Good teacher!
HARD teacher. teaches well (sometimes confusing) but be ready for a lot of studying. mostly teaches from PP's. very helpful teacher with questions and office hours. has about 6 hard exams and drops lowest one. his labs go along with the class, so if you take him, take his lab also. I got C+ which is decent but also didn't study as much as i should
Hard class, but doable. Backer is not the most student-friendly prof, but he knows what he's talking about. For me: book + power point slides = the way to get through. Backer gives a summary of everything, but you need to work on your own some. He hates talking in class, so DON'T DO IT. Everyone gives him a thumbs down, but he isn't bad. WORK HARD!
It's not as bad as people say it is. I mean all you really need to do is study the power points and do the crosswords and you're set. I'd suggest reading the book for the third test, but I didn't really use it much. The only problem I had with the course was the teacher himself, he is a little odd. You can do it if you're not lazy~
I took this as an online class. I would NOT recommend taking this online with Dr. Backer. There is no feedback and you can't find out what you missed on the tests unless you go this his office, which defeats the point of an online class. He may be changing the way he's conducting his online class, but if you take him be very prepared for his tests.
I took this class online and whenever I had a question it was answered by Dr. Backer immediately. We would send him weekly updates on our progress and the comments back from Dr. Backer were always encouraging and telling me not to be so hard on myself. Very supportive Professor. I would highly recommend Dr. Backer.
couldnt stand going to his class. he is a very hard teacher and really rude at times!!
James Backer might be a tad nerdy, but he's a great teacher! Biology is a hard subject, but I passed with an A. You don't need the book. Take him because he wants you to pass and if you pay attention in class and make flash cards to study you'll do fine! =) Trust me, I was sooo scared to take the class. I dont know why he has bad ratings.
His test are extremely hard with the way he words them. He gives you power points and you print out and study but sometimes they're useless. The only way to pass is to actually read the book which he usually does 4 chapters at a time so it is a lot of reading and cramming in just for one test. If you can take another teacher, then DO IT..
Tests are hard. Have very little to do with cheesy powerpoints. The guy is very rude and offensive to his students. Never willing to help without giving them a hard time. Everyone I know of who takes him, including myself, hates him. Pretty disgusting behavior for a "Dr." Fire this guy..please..for the sake of future DSC Biology students.
He's a nice guy and is very passionate about biology, but his class was torture. It wasn't impossibly hard, but you have to study. A lot. And the lecture.. it's just a powerpoint. Every day, all day. I wanted to scream some days because I was so bored. Hard to stay awake. I wouldn't recommend him.
Dr. Backer knows his stuff but he will present the information to you once and if you don't get it, he moves on and it is your responsibility to get help outside of class. His tests come straight from his power points so don't bother purchasing the $200+ book. Overall, if you come to class, pay attention and study a lot, you should do fine.
I am a straight A student,I really thought I was going to get a B or C half way through the semester. I did pull through & get my A, but I worked hard for it! Tests are very hard. He just reads directly off the slides when he lectures. He does offer extra credit- take advantage of it! Thats what I did & it helped a lot. Iwouldn'ttakehim ever again
This is one of the worst professors I have ever encountered. I took the class online and I have no idea where the tests come from. I read the chapters and looked at his NEVER ENDING powerpoints and I still struggled to pass the quizzes. His emails are sarcastic and he is uncaring.
I wasn't looking forward to taking science, but he made lab fun. He's a great teacher. I'm not quite sure why so many people seem to dislike him, though he does make the class challenging. He's not impossible, though - just study his lab notes and you'll be fine. You don't really need the lab book from the bookstore, he gives you his own book.
TOUGH. I waited two years for another on-line Biology teacher to appear, but no luck. Go in knowing the subject will be difficult and strive for every point. The chapter tests were 10 minutes each, and 80% of the grade. The professor was helpful, and extremely supportive in all emails. I finished with an "A", and a lot of biological knowledge.
I don't see where people think he is un-helpful. He was always willing to spend a lot of time with me until all of my questions were answered. Tests are very hard and you really have to understand the material, but once you find the right study method that works for you it becomes much easier. It's a majors class. Its supposed to be difficult!
his class is not easy he flies extremely fast through material on powerpoint and only states it once. the class is also very boring and mandatory. he does give extra credit and dropped a test grade as well. you have to understand this is biology class and it is going to be hard no matter what or who you take. ignore his powerpoint and read the book
The lecture portion is pretty boring but very easy to understand. However, on the tests its like he made them as hard as they could possibly be. The questions will be about a paragraph long and very confusing. He takes the concepts from the notes and makes them ridiculously difficult to apply to the tests. I would never take another class of his.
Horrible Teacher!Hard Tests! I'm taking his class online this summer. He doesn't give enough time on the tests and they are very wordy and tricky. This is my second time taking tis course (he is the only one who teaches it). I absolutley hate this course but it is required for my AA. I am being very honest and serious, he is not a good professor!!!
Yes it is as bad as everyone says! Tests are hard and it seems no matter how hard you study the tests make it irrelevant. There's nothing to make flash cards for cause what you think will be on the tests won't. Nickel and dimes for points in this online class.Ridiculous!Take someone else it doesn't matter.Makes ten minute tests hard as possible.
this guy is way to smart for his own goodif you do decide to take his class you should pretty much know everything he is going to teach, because power points the book and his overall notes had pretty much nothing to do with what was on his tests. he does have a pretty cool grading system i have to give him that butdont even think of askingaquestion
Backer is a good professor. He tries to get his students to learn as much as possible. All of the questions were from the powerpoint slides. Really study them & you should get a decent grade. A bit of advice. I've heard you should avoid the online class. You only have a 10 minute time limit 4 tests. The lecture course is far easier.
i like dr. backer he is funny but his test are to hard.they are confusing i have to take again and i wont be in his class next time
Absolutely AWFUL teacher. I have never had a professor like him before. His tests are way too hard, and his power points are long, and pointless. Do NOT take him
If you want a hyper teacher that sort of reminds you of a child trying to impress Mommy and Daddy, take this guy. The work is fairly easy and He keeps it interesting by try way too hard to be funny. But he's great. BUT if you really hate the evolution theory, keep looking for a professor. Because he wouldn't be your best choice
If you have any kind of test anxiety, do not take his class. You have exactly 10 minutes to take them, yet the questions do not relate to textbook/study/notes at all. Some questions on the test are complete nonsense. If you request guidance for study, you will NOT get a helpful answer. I wish I would have checked his ratings!!!
Good teacher.
He's HORRIBLE!!! Do not take him, he takes pride in failing people
Great teacher. I really do not understand the poor remarks. I am currently in the online class and I am really enjoying the material. He makes it fun and interesting. The tests are really not that hard if you study, and he lets you drop your 2 worst test grades. Overall, I am extremely impressed.
DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS!!! He's knowledgeable about the subject, but he doesn't teach it very well. Do not ask questions in his class, he will chuckle & continue "teaching". He'll lecture & it won't make any sense @ all; he's unclear about processes. The only way I'm passing this class is b/c of SI. If u must take it, then study the 30pg's of notes.
Don't expect an easy A. Lecture can be tedious as Dr. Backer often goes into crazy tangents. He throws a lot of examples that you might think don't matter, but they do. Take note of his crazy examples and the stuff he writes on the board. You do not use the textbook in class or for any assignments, but its beneficial to read it.
Dr. Backer is a very knowledgeable Biology teacher. I took his class online in the first term in Spring. He always replies back to my e-mails in a reasonable time. You have to study the material and try to do your best one each quiz. He drops your two lowest quiz grades, which can make a huge difference.
Dosen't know how to teach scinece. I wasted my time comming to class everyday so I can pass. The tests were terrible and off the list. He even comments on this website so students can take his course. Read carfully the smiley face comments and you'll know its him. His lecutres are boring and his notes are not helpful. Don't take this course.
This class was really hard. I studied a lot but even with the studying, I almost didn't pass his class. The tests are all on the power points so you have to study them very hard.
This isn't an easy class. OK, fine. but what ticked me off about him was how unwilling he was to help. I emailed him every week (he makes you) and I pretty much begged for help. I also called him, took a personal day from work & went to his office (he's barely there). He ignored many of my pleas. So, yeah. Low-rate teacher.
Dr. Backer true is not a easy man to take. His class can be passed. The only way you can pass is to do some work too. You have to do the handouts that he gives you. As well as the crossword puzzle. Yes he is as corny as they come but you just have to ignore it.
I don't understand why he keeps getting bad reviews. The class is hard, but it's not his fault, bio is a tough subject. He gives you everything you need to do well in the class. print the powerpoints and study them!
Teacher was always friendly.Class was very difficult. I studied for hours each week. Tests are also timed....about 1.10 sec per questions. Over all, the hardest class I have ever taken.Glad it's over.
Hands down the worst teacher ever! Rude, disgusting, no communication, doesn't care and his test have nothing to do with his notes! He is a complete ass! I'm an A B student and I got a D. He expects everyone to allready know the stuff but it's a NON SCIENCE MAJOR class. If u do the class online and your discussions sound educated he assumes you copied them from the Internet and deducts 500 points. He's the worst teacher ever THE END!!!!!
Never even opened my textbook all semester and I got an A. His lectures are long and boring but as long as you show up to class and highlight what he says, you will do fine on the tests. The tests are straight off the notes and study guides. He was a little creepy but overall an OK teacher.
His online class was difficult compared to others I've taken. About a minute for each quiz question. But if you come to his office and communicate with him he will guide you and give you different strategies on how to do well on them. He's a very nice teacher and is willing to go the extra mile to help you. Just make sure you do all the work!
Boring professor. He teaches until the very last minute of class. Thinks this is the only class you have to study for. He is boring and had 6 tests altogether for the semester. It is crazy. He starts going over new material right before you have the test the following day. He shouldn't do that because you need to study the test material. Crazy.
Dont take this class online! Worst class I ever took! 72% of your overall score is based on quizzes 10 Questions in 11 minutes (one try only) locked down browser so you can't search or keep PC notes, hand notes and printing only. I've used 2 toner cartridges just trying to keep up. I got a 30 on one exam and destroyed my grade (bye 4.0)
Do NOT take him if you don;t already work really hard! This class is NOT easy. I haven't learned ONE thing from him, I have to teach myself which sucks. He rocks the ugly Christmas sweaters though. &if you ask a stupid question, he'll think you're the dumbest person to walk the earth for the rest of the semester. I really regret taking his class!
The teacher aint to bad. The class aint bad just read print the powerpoints online and bring them to class and be sure to read them thats where he gets the majority of his questions for the tests. and bring a pillow, youll be doing a lot of sleeping
Online class was a non major and the worst class I have ever had. I asked for some helpful stratagies for his quiz. He said some students do better the second time they take the class. That was his help. I also asked if I could sit in on a lecture and he said no.DONT TAKE HIS CLASS!!
took this class online, followed his instructions exactly, double read chapters, studied all the time, was praised by him for excellent discussions, yet i ended up with a D because tests count for over 70% of your grade & there are 10 questions 12 minutes to complete 1 attempt. the class is graded unfairly making it near impossible to pass
Dr. Baker is probably the hardest college class i have taken. His lectures are terribly long but I have gotten extra credit for coming to an extra lecture. He is very helpful I would make him go over every test with me and I felt that helped me tons plus do all the handouts and make flashcards you have to study to do well unless your a bio wiz
Pay Attention. The lab practicals are extremely difficult, and don't expect to pass the tests if you don't study. He gets confusing at times, i recommend someone else.
He's really nice, his lectures can be boring but attendance is mandatory. If he says something is on the test, it's on the test. I'm not sure how half the class still gets those ?s wrong. Do the review sheets and you'll do fine on the test. I didn't really need the book, all the tests are from his lectures and review sheets.
I had Dr. Backer this semester online. He answers your emails promptly if you questions. Study the publisher activities, study tools and make flashcards.You will pass. I would take his class again. He's a nice teacher, you have to apply yourself and study.
I took this class this summer A term. It wasn't too bad. However, the lectures are long and boring. I recommend printing out the power points and following along during lecture, adding any extra points or different wording he may use. You absolutely must pay attention AND study for his exams. I barely used the textbook or lab book for this course.
STUDY. This was my first science course and I took his test reviews for granted. He truly tries to help you succeed, but doesn't do it very well. As long as you attend class, take notes, and study, you will do fine.
He is a horrible teacher! Worst I've ever taken. He is not willing to help you at all, and will mock you for not knowing answers to things. He sucks at explaining anything, he purposely makes his class extremely hard, to ween out the weak is what he says on the first day of class. He expects half of his class to drop or withdrawal. Horrible!
Difficult to understand and hard tests.
He shows a lot of love for biology but is boring to a point. Lectures can seem like they go on for ever if you are not interested. The lab was the best part of the class and very easy to understand. Just DO NOT skip the labs! keep awake and study ALOT you can pass.
WORST TEACHER IN HISTORY!!!! Completely unwilling to help at all. He is completely rude, disgusting, hateful, and saracastic. Calls you out in class and makes you feel stupid. His tests are absolutely ridiculous and if you do not pass both practicals you will fail the class. Online quizzes are hard. If you take him GO TO EVERY STEMINAR YOU CAN!!!!
Easy online class. Very straight forward. Quizzes after every chapter and a final exam at the end. No papers, no projects. Used the textbook a lot, a lot of reading and note taking but the tests are very simple and easy to get A's on.
Although his lectures were hard to learn from, nothing on his tests were outside of the power point slides.
Definitely an interesting teacher. Makes corny jokes that he only laughs at. AS long as you study the PowerPoint's and attend lecture and lab you will pass. Didn't even touch the textbook or lab book. In lab he just makes you print handouts.
If you have the time to put into the class, you should definitely make a habitual ritual of reading his powerpoints, knowing them by heart, and the tests will be no more than a tease to your remembering ability. If not, scramble for it and read. The SI for his class is really helpful as well. DON'T SKIP, TAKES OFF POINTS!
The worst teacher I've ever had. He mumbles everything he says in lecture as he rushes through power points and just starts laughing to himself at his jokes that no one understands. If you don't teach yourself his powerpoints or have any background information about bio you won't understand his tests. Don't take him!!!
Never use a book in lecture. Read the book on your own to get a clearer picture of what he talks about in lecture. Notes in lecture are basically the test.
Does not really stop to answer too many questions. Be ready to write A LOT! From the minute you walk in to the minute you leave you will be taking notes. Does not review for tests in class but does give a review sheet and vocabulary crossword for every test. The test questions are straight from the powerpoint, memorize it and you will do fine.
He is kind of boring in lectures but he tries to give visuals of to the notes so you can understand concepts easier. He posts the notes and review sheets for tests online. As long as you study your notes you should pass the tests.
Rude overall, doesn't make anything clear, doesn't take time to help students, doesn't give good test reviews, and doesn't give any extra credit. Makes his tests hard, makes corny jokes that aren't helpful, and you WILL work until 10 minutes after the end of class time. Also gives tests without finishing covering the material. Don't take him.
Worst teacher i have ever took. He is so useless, you will need to learn everything on your own. His review sheets sucks they cover like 5 questions out of 50. All the question on the test are trick questions. He takes every minute from both lectures and lab. Extremely boring as well.
Easy course if you study and prepare well. You have 15min to answer the majority of the quizzes. Only 9 of your highest scores on quizzes count for your grades, so if you do well, you can have an easy A. He gives you tons of online information, games, videos, reviews for each chapter and even crosswords to practice. Great online class in general.
all these good reviews are from professor baker! He is the worst professor on campus. I did everything in my power to understand the material but his test are so in detailed that some of the questions are from the book or not even covered in lecture. He does not care if you fail. He collects data off of you the first day to see if you will fail
I am a straight A student and this was by far the worst professor I have ever had. This class was only bad because of the way he teaches and he makes his tests hard and tricky! He needs to learn how to teach instead of rushing through the power points!
I recently took Dr. Backer's BIO 1 class over the summer. If you put in the work for this class, you will definitely receive the grade you want. The summer session is fast paced, so get ready to read and pay attention. I don't know why there are so many negative reviews bc Dr. Backer is a hilarious teacher who is passionate about this subject!
Take Dr. Backer if you're up to challenges. His class is very difficult but as long as you study you'll do fine. Study his ppt notes and book. He have 5 tests and a final that count twice so study real hard for the final since it count twice in your grade. When you ask him a question, he will VAGUELY answer it. Overall, good summer class to take.
Dr Backer offers a lot of reasources for you to study for the test and even finals. So long as you study a lot you'll pass with his class. He offers some extra credits like if you go to the Steminars or SI sessions. He's such a funny prof and always have a smile on his face. He's very serious but very gullible person. Easy class just study A LOTLOT
His labs are consists of many experiments. I LOVE his labs it is so much fun. He has 2 LAB Practicals exam. Those are all consist of the experiment you've done and 100 questions Fill In The Blanks. Study real hard for the practicals it's super difficult... but through studying realreal hard you might be able to pass it like me. PS im an A student
ALL of His tests are Very TRICKY and some are cumulative consisting of old materials. His class is very bery diffucult. I would not take him ever again. All of this good reviews are for people who are a STRAIGHT A students.. so if you're not then this is not the class for you. and he does collects datas from you to see if you'll pass his class
Great professor, however you will fail IF YOU DON't spend time outside of class. Just paying attention in lecture won't help you on the tests. You need to read the chapters in the textbook, do the review packets and the crosswords, as they are really helpful with definitions. The labs are pretty straight forward.
I'm almost a Junior and I can safely say this is the worst professor I have ever had. His tests are the most unfair tests I have ever taken, there was almost no point in studying because it literally felt like the tests were set up for you to fail. If you ask him a question he will answer vaguely, if he answers it at all, & overall he can't teach
Mr. Backer is great at getting back to you when you have questions, that is very important to me in an online class. The class is not hard you just have to read your text book or you wont pass the test. He give TONS of study tips and study guides! Great teacher! Just Study and read and you will do great!
I am a BioMed major who is graduating high school with her AA this semester, and I have NEVER taken a class as difficult as this. Don't skip, read the book, and study. His tests have trick questions and his lectures are super broad. Don't take his class if you love yourself.
I am a biological engineer and this teacher almost made me not want to keep with my major. During lectures he would just read off a powerpoint that was online, his tests were grammatically incorrect, his study guides don't help and he even tells you that everything isn't on them, and he doesn't give tests back to study from for the final.
Dr. Backer is a very good professor. He posts the powerpoints online and you can ask him anything. Lecture tests have a good mix of what's covered in class. Lab practicals (there are 2) are not hard at all! Just study the lab wksts and it's an A+! Took this class during Summer A and got an A!
I am studying to be a PA and this teacher made me feel like I should change my major, since he made bio harder than it should be. He needs to learn to teach rather than reading off a power point. His tests are purposely confusing and when asked a question replies vaguely if he replies At all, his class average he shoots for a C...
He is a great professor and as long as you do his review sheets and go to all lectures and labs youll do just fine.
He sucks so bad. I would never take this class if you dont have to. I am a biology major and love learning about it but he almost made me change it. Do not do it.
I have taken this class twice because I needed it for my major and failed it both times. Backer is a very unfair teacher and does not care if you pass or not. When you ask him a question, he makes you feel like you're stupid. He says you will pass if you read the book, do the study guide and crossword, but I still failed because he can't teach.
First of all, despite what many say, Dr. Backer is a really nice guy. Everybody's experience is different, so what may be the case for somebody, may not be the case for you. Many people I know have failed because they didn't try hard enough IF YOU STUDY THEN YOU WILL DO GREAT! I have an A in his class and I am a dual enrolled student. Best of luck!
AWESOME DUDE MR. BACKER! ITs true that his class has a 15% pass rate, but dont worry if you study, you'll do fine. College classes are meant to be hard, and i had a B in his class! but once you get to know him, you'll be amazed!
Plain and simple, Dr. Backers class can be tough. You have to study and do his review packets/cross words to pass his tests. Thats what I did and I got all B's on my exams. This class really tests your intelligence and if you're made for the science field. You leave the class feeling like you really learned something though!
Biology is not that hard of a class, but he made it difficult. His class is based majority off of test grades, and the tests are difficult. Each test, there was a question or 2 that he didn't mention in lecture. He was kinda tough about attendance and lateness. One of my least favorite, but he's not a bad guy. He tries to make lecture somewhat fun.
When I first came to his class, based on all of these reviews i thought i was screwed for sure, but then towards the end of the semester, i realized everybody's experience is different. I got an A in his class, and i was pretty happy about it, but I realized that i deserved my A because i literally did everything he told us to do, in order to pass.
Not a bad online instructor, very helpful and a quick responder to e-mails, especially when needed
I too, based on reviews was a bit scared to take this class and fail. However, if you study you will have no problem passing. In the beginning I started to read the textbook and take my own notes (it's a lot of reading). Roughly by the third test I realized that if you study the power points he puts online, you're golden and will get As on tests.
This class was miserable. Whats on the test, 50% of it was not taught in class, or in the book. There is numerous trick questions on all of the tests, you get chapter review guides but, you don't get the answers. so you could be doing the chapter review all wrong and think its right because you have no clue. I wouldn't take this class again.
I honestly have no idea why his rating is so low. I am a mechanical engineering major and this class was definitely one of the easiest I have ever taken, it's just a matter of memorizing a lot of terms. I can play around in my laptop during his lectures and I can still study all the notes the day before the exam and still get an A.
This class was very straight forward. The professor is very well organized and will care to help you as much as you care to help yourself! Expect heavy doses of info on PowerPoints all class long. Grades were composed of several exams and one final exam (and lab grade). Study ppt and review the textbook and you will succeed in this class!
If you arent good at memorizing then look for another teacher. I spoke to counselors about this class and even my counselors told me that they are hearing a lot of trouble about this professor. I wish he wasnt the only bio teacher. Its very hard if youre juggling a job as well.
worst teacher I have ever had! Do not take his class. He will make you feel stupid if you ask a question and all he does is lecture. The class is based off of tests only. He is rude and does not explain anything.
Amazing guy! He explains exactly what you need to know to pass. Most of the test questions are the same questions covered in lecture. He lets you look at your tests after they have been graded. I wish there were more labs (they were fun). You don't really need to read the textbook to pass but it helps if you want to know the material. Def take him.
might as well just stay home and read the powerpoints
I took Dr. Backer for General Biology I lecture. His grading criteria was clear, and we had 5 multiple-choice exams and a final that accounted for most of the grade. He taught almost entirely from the PowerPoint and followed the textbook. However, he didn't offer much help when students asked any questions.
Many of my peers failed or barely passed this class. You MUST study and attend every lecture and lab if you want a good grade. Take advantage of everything he offers to you to help. The lecture is mostly him reading off a powerpoint, so be ready to teach yourself. Test questions are tricky with wording so you must understand the material fully.
Most confusing online course I've had, took a little bit to get familiarized with the way he works. After that, it was a breeze. Survey of Bio course, really easy and quite frankly, a super easy A if you take it online. Inhibit yourself from e-mailing or trying to communicate with him, he's not tech savy at all.
Only class I have dropped after trying to review his syllabus. It was a complete train wreck. Syllabus repeatedly says 14 minutes to finish a quiz. Answer on the syllabus quiz says 15 minutes. No way to answer correctly. He must get off on carefully crafted tricky answers. Save your money. Take another prof. Admin review needed.
Very difficult professor. Took the class for a prereq. & had to withdraw to save my GPA. Teaches like you should already know the material. Your grade relies on tests which are extremely difficult & cover a lot of material. Doesn't provide test corrections/extra credit. Absolutely would not recommend him, especially if science is not your focus.
Professor Backer is a very nice man. His lectures, although interesting, didnt help at all for tests. I used the book, study guide/pwrpt, crash course videos, tutoring, and supplemental instruction and nothing helped prepare me for his tests. I may be a bad test taker but I heard from at least 4 people NOT to take his class or get out of it ASAP.
He teaches from powerpoint only and asks very specific questions on test. You may think oh Ive had teachers who taught from powerpoint and passed, Ill be fine, you wont. Broke my foot half an hour before an exam, went to the doctors, emailed him saying Ill bring a note from my doctors can I make it up. Didn't respond, and won't let me make it up.
Lecture from Powerpoints which he goes super fast, five 50 Q exams throughout semester which are tough and online pretests do not reflect ANYTHING like what the real test will be, even after studying immensely. Lab instructor covering for him in the evening was horrible too. I ended up withdrawing to save my GPA.
DO NOT TAKE HIM!
This class was very hard and was doing well until the end of the semester. I wish I dropped this class earlier.
Wayyy too many tests and quizzes, it's very hard to keep up especially while taking other classes. The timer for the quizzes and tests are very short and questions are HARD! Prof. doesn't allow students to see which questions they got wrong. Online "labs" are a joke. Only took this class because it's a transfer prerequisite. DO NOT TAKE!!!!
Honestly, the most disorganized class I have ever taken. Such a disorganized and unclear teacher when it comes to prompts and guidelines for assignments.
This is the worst class I've ever taken. I had to struggle to get that B in this class. Don't take this professor- and this isn't coming from someone angry about failing. He is genuinely the worst I've ever had. Drop out before it ruins your GPA.
Since he is the only bio 1 prof, you are forced to take his class. As others have said, he is HARD. He doesn't liked to be asked questions, and if he does answer your question it will be worded in a way you won't understand. I passed by writing/rewriting/highlighting the notes from the PPT, doing the reviews, and read/reread the book. Good luck.
I was nervous taking this class seeing his ratings and reviews but he is honestly such a kind professor, he was sick and still did an online lecture even though only 5 students attended. He makes jokes and makes the class fun. He is very willing to answer questions and help when needed.
Disorganized online class. If you don't get explicitly personal with a discussion topic, you lose all points. It feels very strange and invasive to require that of students since we go over topics like disability. Due dates have no clear pattern, one week you have 2 quizzes and the next you have 4. Do not recommended for half semester pacing!
Disorganized and relies on powerpoints/textbook and is very unclear with what youll need to know for the exams (which there are alot of). You'll need to memorize the whole textbook pretty much if you feel like passing.
Avoidable issue. Test wording is irritating, and the heavily promoted cumulative exam & seminars are your alleged grade saviors - trusting is an enormous risk for a lost cause. Lecture is him reading PowerPoint/book + some side comments; attendance counts, nonetheless Lab was engaging, given a different professor, leading to a good practical grade
The man is extra ordinarily unorganized and will go out of his way to not answer any questions persisting that you just need to work in the power point/ study guide he made which has the same problem . Does not explain any of the more advance material, just paraphrases out of the book. You need to go to all the seminars to get a passing grade.
read the reviews. tests are rough. I dont like this guy at all. Lectures are just him rambling about his stupid jokes and reading off PowerPoints. take notes if you can even write fast enough. gl
His powerpoint and explanations were hard to understand, so use Google or someone else to answer your questions. Most of the test questions are somewhere in the review sheets and powerpoint so study those! Study a lot (don't cram) or YOU WILL FAIL. Overall he is nice but his class has lot's of studying, surprise quiz, and explanations make no sense
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
88%
Textbook Required
76%
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B+
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