He is a pretty good lecturer, but he tends to take things way too seriously and will waste time berating the class over grades even when the majority are passing. Tests are hard, but most of your grade comes from projects/homework/quizzes.

He is a good lecturer and is usually willing to answer questions. He codes in class, which is very helpful. The projects are interesting and really make you apply knowledge from class. Tests are mostly coding and are in-depth but not impossible.

He is interesting to listen to and gives good lectures, but the tests are very annoying because he picks questions out of the book we only covered in class for maybe 1 minute. If you're willing to actually read a 1000 page textbook you'll do fine, but if not be prepared to receive a bad grade.

Project grading is very harsh. If you don't program the homeworks perfectly, even if you make a small mistake that would take under a minute to fix it's an automatic failure. Tests were hard, most of it coding. He did curve some test grades, though. Teacher was nice and helpful, though. I just thought the grading for the projects were really dumb.

If you are Bill gats, Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, or you have 3-5 years experience in programming under your belt this class will be easy....If you have no experience, this class gonna be super challenging(Very hard Projects and Tests).

He knows how to teach enough said. You will learn a lot from him because he clearly explains the detail and complex idea. He knows what he's talking about. Test will challenge you on specifics and coding. knowledge over grade

He was very clear with his instruction and explained the introductory topics of C++ in way in which even a baby could understand. the tests were kinda challenging and required you to study so its not a blowoff class but a good foundation for later CS classes.

Great teacher. Lectures are wonderful. Helps a lot in his office hours. However, the tests and the projects are not easy and you have to study properly and regularly. Do that and you'll learn much more than you ever thought possible!

A good class for beginners, as he makes sure everyone understands what is going on. When he says there's going to be an exam don't study mins before, this is something that needs to be done days before the exam. You'll 100% need the textbook, it's what let's you have a chance at passing. He does try and make things fun, he gets props for that!

Mr. Smith explains things well, so do go to his lectures. His projects require lots of work, but you really learn stuff from them. For those who complain the class being too hard, I'd suggest them to go read their textbooks--everything ultimately comes from the book. Definitely recommend him for those willing to learn and put in the effort.

Really hard projects and tests, but go to office hours if your stuck on a project! He WILL get you past what you're stuck on, and in much less time than the tutors in the lab. Pop quizzes but they're not that bad, plus homework.

Amazing teacher, tough grader but fair. if you do the work you'll pass the class.

If you go to class you will pass. He makes hard tests, but study vocabulary and you will for sure get a good grade. Ask him any stupid questions you have too, he'll spend time on you and make sure you understand the material. Taking again next semester!

Projects are really hard and the guidelines can be vague, but tests are all right. Smith is very helpful if you talk to him after classduring office hours. I suggest going to class, because he answers questions, explains the material, and gives a few pop quizzes throughout the semester. He definitely helped our grades at the end of the semester.

Professor Smith is a very interesting guy teaching a not so interesting class. His lectures can be stretched and boring, but they are easy to understand. His assignments are difficult and make you think, but are just enough to handle. Tests are easy, and are all nerd themed, making them awesome. He asks questions in class, and will call on you.

I can say he made the class challenging for sure. However, that's the good thing! He gives you the grade you deserve based on your hard work. Be ready to read, practice, and ask a lot of questions. Most importantly, be very prepared for the tests. You'll see the good amount of knowledge and skill you'll have by the end of the semester.

interesting class, the projects and homework's were okay if you planned time for them. The tests were rough and hard to wrap my head around what was being asked. Only problem I had was the matlab assignments since we were not taught in depth on the concept of it.

Hard, but worth it! Expect this class to be tough, but don't be discouraged - looking back on the first week of his class, I am astonished at how much of a better programmer I am now. You get what you give with this class. Time management, practicing programming, asking questions, and studying are key to passing this class. He's a nice guy, too!

This class was definitely fun. We worked on interesting projects. While the projects were not easy they were definitely doable with good time management. DO NOT try to finish a project the day of. Professor Smith is very approachable and genuinely interested in teaching. Also, his E-mail response time is incredibly fast compared to others.

He really is so wonderful

A great professor! His classes (1336 & 1337) fully prepared me for the upper level classes I am currently taking. He wants you to work hard, and it is well worth the effort!

If you go to class, he will generally go over the information needed to complete the assigned homework or projects. The projects can require some research or outside knowledge to complete the way he wants, but if you can find a few people to work with it should be to hard.

Jason keeps you working hard and busy programming b/c that is the only way to improve. This is 1 of the toughest classes I have taken. His tests are HARD. He did allow us to get back points with test corrections (THANKS). I was stressed out most of the semester. At the end I must say he is fair and I LEARNED SO MUCH! He cares + his ties are sweet!

Regarding projects, I always email him and got reply so fast. Once he even reply within one minute. He gave you chance to retake the exam on every exam. A grade on the test is not my biggest concern. Communication and teaching yourself should be our focus. Read the chapters ahead before lecture. He expect class participation.

Jason Smith is a great professor. His projects and tests can be difficult, but if you put in an effort you will learn a lot. He is there for you to answer questions whenever you have them.

Professor Smith's class was honestly an extremely challenging class, but I do not regret taking it. While I could have taken a much easier class and gotten a better grade, the projects, tests, assignments, and quizzes that Smith gives challenged me to learn more. He is willing to help his students. Great professor! I would definitely take again.

He cares about his students and answers emails quickly. If you have a question just ask. The projects are hard and take at least 2 full days working on them. I went to the mentor center to get help several times when I got stuck. The tests are part code and multiple choice. We could makeup the multiple choice for a higher grade.

If you want to be a successful programmer, you need to take Smith. The work load was heavy, but worth it in the end. He is a great lecturer and knows the material perfectly. He challenges you to solve tough problems in order to make you a great programmer. He prepares you extremely well for the next class. Read the book and you'll do fine.

I was scared to take him because of the reviews. However, don't let the reviews scare you off. Personally, I think he is an amazing professor that knows his material. He wants you to succeed and will meet you halfway if YOU put effort. His class is challenging, but it has truly prepared you for programming. Read and pay attention; you'll do well.

This class is one of my toughest classes, but it's also one of my favorites. He does not curve the exams, but he does allow for test corrections to receive some points back (which is better and is a learning experience). If you pay attention to his lectures (includes when he is coding) and read, the projects are easier. I highly recommend him.

You have to work really hard in this class (especially since I have no prior programming experience). There are in-class projects, homework (mainly from the textbook), pop-quizzes, outside projects, and exams. The projects are weighted more than the exams (so use those couple of weeks he gives to work on the project and ask questions).

A hard professor, but he makes you learn the material. If you are not a CS major, you probably shouldn't take him, but if you make it through his class you will understand the material thoroughly.

Ignore the backlash towards Jason Smith. He is the best professor I've had so far at UTD. The workload is heavy, but if you read the book early, PRACTICE, and ask questions (via email too - he is extremely open to this and replies fast!), you will succeed; he REALLY wants you to succeed. Also, there are pop quizzes. Read early and you'll be fine!

I was gonna give Smith a 4/5 cause he has poor hygiene and his lectures are basically useless. However, he wears some pretty sick ties sometimes so he's an A+ in my book. Other than that, the dude is pretty great. He genuinely wants everybody in his classes to learn, which helps if you're a CS major. If you aren't, consider taking somebody else.

Very heavy workload but you learn C++ in depth. If you don't want to continue in CS don't take his class. If you do want to learn programming to a high capability go for this professor.

Really a great guy. This is someone who genuinely cares about his students learning the material he is supposed to present. His class is genuinely difficult, even for the talented, but he's very understanding, and let me correct the first project grade after I accidentally used the wrong compiler. Probably the best instructor I've had. 10/10 smitho

Never coded before and now I can :D Well to a certain extent of course. Alot of work, but professor is through in materials and I generally had few questions. Prepare for random quizzes and homework along with 5 projects (takes a few days to a week to finish a project). Grader for the class needs to be more through though (not Mr. Smith).

It's not that he is a tough grader, he just assigns a lot of work to be graded. Which in turn can dilute any bad grades you have. Plus he helps you out with bonus pts if you stick it out. I had zero coding experience before this class and now I have classmates commenting on how fast I have improved. It's because of this guy. only

This class is very hard and the workload is intense. However, I walked away with a greater understanding of C++. The projects and homework assignments set you up for success IF you take them seriously. Be cautious of due dates and remember to read the textbook. Smith is always open for questions and available during his office hours. I recommend.

He's a great guy and a pretty good professor. Some people in 1337 don't like him, but as far as I know, everyone in 2336 liked him. I already knew C/C++ from before, but some of the projects were still challenging. This is good though, because if a class isn't any challenge at all, it would be a waste of time. I did learn some new data structures.

Don't stray away from him! Yes the class is a lot of work, but it's worth it trust me. If you put in the effort, you will do well for the class. A lot of the homeworks and pop quizzes are similar to the type of questions you will get on the exam. He is a really cool guy (with neat ties) who knows his material. Take him especially if you are CS/CE.

It is very obvious that Professor Smith truly cares about his work and how well he educates. That being said, he has a lot to learn about teaching. Not regarding his methods, but rather on the philosophy of his approach. He has a lot of potential, but fascination is the best catalyst for education, and you won't see much of this in his courses.

You should not take 1337 without some previous C++ experience. Taking Smith's 1337 without good foundation is gonna be your fault when you fail, not his. He also doesn't teach everything- you're expected to read the chapters and then have gaps in your knowledge filled in by lectures. Tests are insanely hard, read the book or fail them all.

OK he is one of the best professors I've had. He's a wonderful person and teacher imo. I have received emails from him late at night answering my questions. It just shows how much he cares about his job. Yeah, his class is tough, but that's the point. I had to learn so much by myself (google) that I now feel confident about c++.

What passes for "teaching" in Computer Science classes is sad.

He's great as a professor, but lectures are ok. He really, really cares about your success. He'll cover some basic stuff, and do specifics that people are struggling with, but the inbetween is your responsibility. His projects are tough, but you'll learn a lot. Read the text closely for tests, and google the poorly explained stuff. Took him again.

Jason is a real gem. Many have commented that he cares for his students and it shows. His lectures are him improvising something to teach. Most professors might prepare lesson plans and actual opportunities for the students to succeed, but not Jason! Jason's talent to make you not want to study computer science should be applauded. What a guy!

Smith is above-average in most regards. Teaching is more impromptu with on-the-fly examples and in-class participation. I usually prefer lectures with slides, but his style still works. Projects are very clear in expectations and that's where the class really shines. Recommend polishing projects so you can use them to market yourself.

TBH there are worse 2336 professors. Smith's best trait is he's willing to change his courses based on feedback- so give thorough, specific feedback on evals. Pretty sure he's only taught 2336 twice now too. He'll refine the course over time, I trust.

Best professor I've had at UTD. Lectures give you just enough for you to fill in the small details on your own. This class comes with a lot of work, but it's necessary to practice in order to be proficient at coding. Mr. Smith is always there for his students and their needs - this is what sets him apart from any other professor I've had.

Smith is a great professor. His lectures only covered important materials. I don't know why there are some people complaining he didn't teach anything. If you want to learn, you have to ask, this is university, not elementary school. His homework and assignments are heavy, but you'll learn A LOT.

While a lot of Smith's projects have caused me a lot of stress due to the difficulty, overall I think that the challenge was well worth the trouble in preparing for future classes. He is very good about answering emails and helping out when you're struggling with code. My only qualm is the exams are very syntax based, but that's just preference.

Professor Smiths class was very challenging. This was due mostly to the projects considering they were about 50% of the finale grade. They were very challenging and time consuming but they taught me a lot on how to be a good programmer and after being challenged so much in his projects, it final clicked on how to think critically and how to program

Pretty good professor, but he does expect you to put in some hard work in class and out of class. The tests are pretty hard and you really gotta study if you want to do well. I would definitely have him as a professor again if I could.

I think Jason Smith is a communist. Great class and very interesting to be taught from such a harsh perspective

Let me start by saying Professor Smith is a great instructor and crazy helpful. Every time I had a question about homework, projects, or even the 1136 course, which was plenty of times, he always answered my emails within 30 minutes. Yes he's a tough proffesor but I feel incredibly prepared for 1337 thanks to that.

Smith is a great professor for those wanting to learn CS. It's not an easy trip, however because he really makes you work for your grade, but that's to be expected. Not being sarcastic, I want to thank him for this semester. Being in his class made me realize I don't like coding, and it's better to figure that out now than three years into school

Professor Smith is not someone I would call a great lecturer, he's alright, but what he is good at is making a good course. What I mean by this is the materials he lays out are challenging, but he gives good steps to build up to the challenges. You truly feel like you have learned something when you step out of this class.

If you're a CS major and/or care about becoming a better programmer, take any of Mr. Smith's classes. He will show the way to becoming a better computer scientist while providing just the right amount of challenge. All in all, he's a fantastic teacher who will make himself available to you if you reach out. He also wears some sick ties.

This class is hard. Jason doesn't go easy, so expect to work for your grade. Projects are involved and difficult, but if you put the time in it's not that bad. He gives 2 project regrades over the semester, so if you screw up it's not the end of the world. MAKE SURE YOU READ; the first test was very in depth. I highly recommend Jason Smith.

Prof. Smith is an excellent choice if you want to actually learn about the material, but don't take him for the easy A. There is a lot of work in his class, and he expects students to start projects at least a week in advance. So, don't procrastinate! He responds quickly to emails, and is a big help when you have a question or need help.

His class requires more work than average, but he will be there to help you. He responds to emails fairly quickly and he gives great feedback. Be prepared to pour your heart into those projects. Smith's exams are also heavily syntax based, he knows how to push your limits. You will definitely learn how to code.

Professor gives hard (but interesting) assignments and projects, and sometimes due at the same time. If you want a challenge I highly encourage you to take this professor. Otherwise, DO NOT TAKE Jason Smith. The professor is nice, and he responds quickly, but I have many friends who have received low grades because he does grade tough!

I don't understand why people are rating him so low! People say he gives a lot of hw and projects, but they can be easily done in 2 or less hours. His lectures are easy to understand if you just show up and listen. His lectures are really engaging! He is really inspirational and I respect his teaching skills. Don't listen to the other reviewers.

Jason Smith is definitely one of the more difficult professors for CS 1337. However, if you put in the time and work then you should be good. He is a great professor that will answer any questions you may have. Projects are difficult and take long, but this is where you challenge yourself to become a better programmer.

Jason Smith is known as a very hard professor however he makes up for this by being a great lecturer and he actually cares on about what he does. He is an excellent teacher who gives ample opportunity to gain extra credit on projects. He is also known for making anyone who takes his class a much better programmer after the class.

Great lecturer and really cares for his students and their success. Beware of the consistent stream of projects and homework. Projects have tons of extra credit opportunities. This was one of the classes that I really LEARNED in. Keep up with due dates and you'll be golden.

Jason Smith is a cool professor. His work is very difficult but he gives plenty of opportunities for you to excel, such as, allowing you to fix your project for a regrade. Before this semester I was uncertain of my programming skills but now leave confident. When you enroll into this course know what you are getting into and you'll be fine.

Jason Smith is a great professor that really cares about his students. Doing all the coursework will make you a better programmer. His work is tough, challenging, and tedious, but its also fair. You can regrade 2 projects and get half credit back on the exams through corrections. Also, he will always help you out if you have questions. 10/10 class

While he is a hard professor, you will actually learn stuff in his class. I came to college for this, so his coding oriented class was much better for me compared to test-oriented ones. Regrades and corrections save your grade and projects save your future CS career!

Tough class but very interesting projects and assignments. He has good lectures that help you grasp concepts easily. Would not recommend taking this class if you want an easy A but if you want to learn, definitely worth it. Lot of opportunity for extra credit. Assignments are evenly weighted so that doing badly on an exam will not affect you.

Professor Smith's class is not that hard, but the learning curve is steep. After first project, 20% students drop. I got an A- in his CS2336. When you really into his class, you'll find that you learned something. His class is interesting, little powerpoint, but real problem solving skills. Also professor Smith likes to interact with students.

This class is hard. His tests are hard. His projects are hard. You will look at your friends with other professors and wonder why they have 1/4 the workload that you have. BUT, you will definitely learn something in this class. After taking Jason Smith, the rest of my classes feel like a cakewalk. It's on you whether the trade-off is worth it!

Mr. Smith's class is not hard. Read the textbook. Go to class. That's all you need to do to be successful. I did every one of his projects the day they were due (I don't recommend doing this, but it's doable) and made an A+ in both 1337 and 2336. In fact, both of my grades ended up being over a 101 because of his curves at the end of the semester.

Professor Smith gives an incredibly intense workload, with many projects and homework assignments that will eat away at your time. This was definitely one of the hardest classes that I've had, but he also does a good job of teaching the material and making sure that you have the tools to succeed. If you want to learn the subject, then take him.

Professor Smith is a super reasonable guy who wants you to learn. If you want an easy grade I would recommend taking someone else, even though I felt the difficulty of the projects was exaggerated. A lot of actual useful information in the class, I am glad I took Smith.

He is a good professor to take if you don't have much credit hours or a job. Make sure to do the projects well. I dropped from a B to almost a C- due to the last project really screwing me up. He's not there to torture you, but understand that he does give a reasonable amount of time to do your assignments and such.

Love this professor. Although his class requires alot of time and effort, YOU WILL DEFINITELY LEARN and it is to your best interest that you do learn what the stuff he is teaching you. Grades are focused on projects, and he does alot to try and help you and your grade. Extensively, he also teaches you responsibility. Get help when you need it.

Laid back/nice guy. Graded by (hardest to easiest) Projects (4) 50%, Exams (3) 30%, In-class Assignments 10%, Review Homework 5%, Preview Homework 5%. Test corrections give back 50% points (EX: 60 turns to 80). Start projects early, takes 20 hours max. Attendance optional: I never paid attention, just used the torrented textbook to teach myself.

Best professor for CS according to me. He gets a lot of hate for his projects, but they are the reason why his class is so good, doing projects teaches you a lot more about programming than tests. He's very approachable, answers emails very quickly, and wants you to succeed in his class. I'm taking him for CS 2336 next fall!

Great professor and easily accessible outside of class. Projects and homeworks are hard but they make you learn. He answers any questions really well. Just make sure you start your projects ahead of time, and study the book for exams. Most people who complain procrastinate and dont study.

I was putting off taking 1336, but I am so happy to have had the opportunity to take this class with Jason Smith. Yes- his projects can be difficult. But to make up for this he makes himself incredibly accessible through email and many office hours. If you truly want to be a good programmer, take his class.

A solid, down-to-earth professor with great accessibility. His projects aren't easy, but neither is real programming; while some of the ideas seemed a bit contrived, most of them were pretty grounded and reasonable. I greatly enjoyed his lectures, and he seemed very personable and friendly, as well as knowledgeable. 10/10 would take again.

Jason Smith is a chill, down-to-earth professor. He explains topics in an engaging manner, always trying to get the class involved. His no laptop policy sometimes is annoying and he sometimes messes up the test cases for the projects. His tests are actually hard, but it isn't too big of a deal since it isn't much percentage and he has corrections.

Professor Smith is amazing at his job. His lectures are clear and easy to follow. Not many homework assignments, and the textbook is very informative also. His projects are much harder than the other professors though, so do NOT procrastinate on them. But he is accessible outside class, and the feedback he gives is excellent. I like this guy.

Ignore the below 4 average score, I don't know what happened in the past, but this man is the epitome of a caring, dedicated teacher. Like others said, he is very accessible and friendly. All the work you do in class contributes heavily to the pretty bearable projects. TAKE THIS MAN, but do not procrastinate and do all the super easy homework!

Everyone else has already mentioned that his class can be difficult, so I won't go over that. To do well in the class, you will have to do some learning outside of lectures and the textbook. He expects you to use StackOverflow, advice from other students, and a lot of time to learn. That's how most CS people do their jobs though, so I support it.

Genuinely the best professor I've had at UTD. He gives large projects and regular homeworks which is a lot of work, but 100% manageable if you don't procrastinate. He gives good lectures and provides plenty of resources to help do the work. My only complaint is test difficulty, but if you put in effort on other assignments you'll still do well.

He always listens to any students in the class and makes sure to answer them all. He is reachable outside the class through email for a forum for anyone and shares the opinion on that site. The homework and projects are hard but really get you to study and manageable your schedule. But after all, I have a great experience in this course.

A good professor but the class is very difficult. The projects are hard and hit your grades hard as well and going online made it horrifying but in class is really good.

Pros: -Very open to questions during office hours/lecture -Most organized professor by far -Very clear criteria for projects/assignments -Incredibly accessible via office hours or online, usually replies within hours. In a word, order. Cons: -Difficult with both the amount of content and the content itself (applications of lectures, not just facts)

Smith is a professor where you get out what you put in. Trust me, it's not nearly as scary as you're made out to believe. If you start the projects early and read the textbook to brush up for the exams, you will make an A. Mr. Smith does really care about his students, shoot him an email at any time and he replies in hours. It's almost scary.

There's a lot of contrasting ratings here, so you know you will either love him or hate him. It's a lot of work so it forces you to learn, if you do not learn, you will fail. Although its rough, he genuinely wants you to succeed and will do everything he can to help you. Only take him if you're priority is a genuinely good education over an easy A.

Jason Smith is without a doubt the best professor I have had at UTD. Like these other reviews are saying, his course is fairly homework and project heavy, but I believe it all pays off. He is more than fair, and always does things in the student's best interests. He also has the best tie collection I have ever seen. 10/10 makes me excited to code.

I love Dr. Smith! The majority of your grade is based on projects. Don't be intimidated by other reviews saying the projects are crazy difficult because they aren't. If you read the book, go to lectures, and start on the projects at a reasonable time you will do great. You'll definitely get stuck now and again but just ask for help on Piazza.

Jason Smith was aa amazing professor in my experience. I'd heard projects were notoriously difficult but I found them to be enjoyable and made me think critically about my programs. He is always willing to help outside of class and he puts effort into making sure everyone in the class understands concepts. Take him if you really want to learn.

Hardest professor I've ever taken. I really enjoy the class and the projects even though I feel like I'm drowning whenever I do them. I do admit though, I've become really good at Java and debugging my programs. The only bad point about him is his insanely difficult tests and incorrect project testcases which he fixes pretty fast.

This professor is fantastic in my opinion. The course is project-heavy and you're going to be answering textbook assignments and writing code practically every week. This is a course for people who enjoy coding and are fine with the hours that go into passing the class. The professor explains concepts clearly, and work assigned reinforces them.

Lectures were decent but not mandatory (currently COVID). Office hours were extremely insightful. Occasional small homework assignments. Project-heavy class, and on that note usually long-winded and challenging. Exams were extremely difficult and technical, a mix of textbook-based and code implementation. Take him if you want to be a good coder.

I took Jason Smith in the Fall of 2019, and thought that he was a pretty decent professor! He assigns a lot of rather difficult projects, but gives you a good amount of time to do them and ask questions about them. A lot of people hate him for his projects, but if you start early you'll be fine! Participating in lectures seemed to help too!

He truly cares about the success of his students. The project-based class is very difficult but pays off in the long run. Tests are harder than coding interviews but they prepare you well for them. I owe my development career to this man. Definitely not an easy grade but this class will set you for life. Zybooks makes this class great online.

2 exams, 4 projects. You can be a senior developer for AMC or Cinemark after this class. Mans carries the CS department on his back. The CSMC will be your new home for the semester. Survive the 2nd project and you're set. The second half of the semester is so much easier than the first. SMITH PASSES THE VIBE CHECK! He'll reck you in Mario kart.

Professor Smith is one of the best lecturers that I have ever taken a class from. His explanations are very detailed and truly help you understand the concept. He goes through numerous examples, incorporating ideas from both C++ and Java in his lectures. However, his projects and homework are definitely challenging and stressful.

I'll be honest I didn't want to take him but I am so glad I did. After reading the vast amount of mixed reviews I was skeptical however they are true. The class is difficult but as long as you ask for help you will be fine use the CSMC, Piazza, and the professor and you will be fine. Also, make sure to check zybooks because time files by

Professor Smith was an excellent professor. The projects, while time-consuming, always had sufficient time to complete and get 100% on. If you do well and do not procrastinate on projects, you will do well in the class. Besides projects, homework is very manageable and should not take up too much of your time.

A solid choice for any CS class. You will learn a lot but it won't be easy. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! If you are able to schedule your time properly, you can definitely get a good grade in his class.

He did a great job handling the transition to online due to COVID and was very understanding of everyone's situation and did all he could to make it work for you. He's also aware its a difficult class and will help you as long as you show you are truly making an effort. That said if you care more about an easy A then this class isn't for you

Smith is not a professor for everyone but if you are willing to take the time to learn, ask questions, and most of all, start early on projects, you will do well. He was flexible given COVID-19 and was always accessible via Piazza. Very project heavy and sometimes they had vague documentation but they will help develop good coding practice.

goated professor projects were of similar difficulty to CS 1337, tests were difficult

Simply the GOAT and with goats come haters(bad reviews). He's one of the biggest reasons the UTD CS department is well respected so take him while you can. You'll regret not taking him. Obviously, he's tough but you'll learn everything you need. Lectures are the best, zybooks is easy to use especially the way he uses it. Best online class to get.

Overall a very good professor, but the workload in his class is high. Professor Smith spends lots of time outside of class to help his students. Always accessible through Piazza or Email. Tests are pretty difficult but are open book. Coding Projects are weighted much higher than tests. Difficult class, but you learn a lot. Don't procrastinate.

If you are considering a career in software engineering then take him. His projects will give you lots of experience. At first they might sound a bit intimidating when you are first given the assignment but take it step by step and ask for help, I promise it will be worth it. Take him if you actually want to learn, he is a solid teacher.

The projects in this class WILL take a lot of time, but they really strengthened my programming abilities, since you will be spending a lot of time coding and debugging. He also made it very clear that if you were having issues with the class due to COVID reasons, you could talk to him if you needed accommodations, which was very reassuring.

Jason Smith has been the best teacher I've taken so far! He wants his students to learn, he's teaching for more than just a grade! This was a very enjoyable class and truly drove my passion for coding!

Professor Smith's courses are not known for their content, but for their implementation. You will have a lot of individual programming projects and assignments. The exams are hard, but the premise is that they make you focus on what really matters: actually programming (the projects and assignments). Don't take if your time management is bad.

A difficult class, but you'll get lots of good experience. Projects are complex/lengthy, but manageable if you put the time into it. Don't procrastinate! As for Smith himself, he's one of the best, he clearly cares about us and wants us to succeed. He explains concepts well, and he's very accessible. Same review applies for CS2336 I took him again!

He's a really good teacher who cares about your learning and answers questions very well. The homeworks are pretty straightforward and easy. The projects can be sometimes straightforward and sometimes complicated. But if you start on time, there's no problem. The exams really test your knowledge and he gives reviews for them.

This class is designed to weed out those who are lazy. Projects are very challenging, but helped me a lot; if you wait until the last days to do them, then you will fail this class miserably. It will train you not to be procrastinating. Tests are heavy with a difficult recursion coding question. He curved 0.5pt and dropped assignments' lowest score

Even though Professor Smith's CS 2337 is by far the hardest class I've ever taken, it also was by far the most rewarding class as well. If you can make the time commitment, I highly suggest his class.

Best professor I've taken at UTD - but also the hardest. Jason Smith gives out 4 major projects, each of which took up about 30 hours of work. However, after taking his class you will be a programming expert. Always available to help out and troubleshoot - even went as far as to stay on the discord helping folks until 4am one night.

By far my best professor this year. Homework comes as textbook work, 5 shorter programming HWs, and 5 projects (week+ long projects that will take you a while). Don't procrastinate, everything in this class is very doable and gives a good grade. Take him, you will actually learn C++ and will thank yourself later. Professor Smith is goated.

Professor Smith is an excellent Professor. He knows what he is talking about. His class has a lot of projects that take time. He knows how to make his lectures interesting. Overall if you can take him you should because you will learn a lot.

Professor Smith is a really good professor, but the course is somewhat heavy in terms of assignments. The course is designed so that one bad grade doesn't bog you down (3 tests (10% each), reading homework(10%), coding homework(10%), partner quizzes(10%), 4 projects(10% each)).

Definitely my hardest class but what I learned and went through during this class has well prepared me for the future. Do NOT start late on the projects and do the extra credit on them - it may just help you end with an A instead of an A- like me. Talk with peers on the class discord, it helps to make friends and understand the hw if you get stuck.

This class has been the most challenging, and yet the most rewarding class for me this semester (and the rest of my college career I think). His class really will make you proficient in C++ (or Java, depending on which class of his you take). Don't procrastinate because the projects are important and you'll be fine. Also talk on the Discord.

The projects can be tough if you dont start early. Tests are also challenging if you dont understand the topics. Is a 1k level course but that doesnt mean its an easy class. Definitely challenges students with projects but you will learn a lot. Only complaint is he can sometimes come off as passive aggressive over piazza. You will learn a lot.

You can get by without attending the lectures but you'd only be hurting yourself. The projects are extremely challenging but you have more than sufficient opportunities to complete them with a 100. Pay attention to the lectures, start on projects as early as possible, and make use of Piazza and the Discord server and this class will be a breeze.

Actually my favorite professor. The project takes a lot of work but I would argue that it is not so difficult since you can test the program repeatedly. The majority of grade is project and the test takes a smaller portion of grade (which is good). The lecture is great and he is actually pretty nice to reasonable request.

I can definitely see why he's respected. He tries to get to know you to help you learn. Projects make up 40% of the grade, be sure to dedicate enough time to plan and complete, not day before. Zybooks really comes in handy too. Don't take if you can't manage time, but I truly think he's the best prof you'll get for this class if not for CS overall.

One of the best professors I've had. Most of the projects are a bit overkill but they help give a proper understanding of the material. The tests are the weakest part of the course as they contain questions that are obscure but both tests are 25% of the grade combined so even if you screwed up the projects can make up for it.

Mr Smith was a great professor, although his classes are pretty tough, you're going to prepare yourself for the future in his class, and if data structures and algorithms are going to be as hard as people say it is, you best be prepared!

In terms of assignments given, make sure you have good time organization, as his projects and HW take time to complete. But I've learned more in this one class than I have in others in terms of understanding how to program efficiently. Lectures are very clear and informational, and he responds to questions engagingly.

You learn a lot. Most of the grade comes from projects. You learn A LOT. Accessible outside of class. Lots of hw, but all HW is high quality. Lectures are a bit dry but above average at UTD.

I think I'll have to retake, but it was worth it. As someone who ONLY had 1336 programming knowledge, this class taught me a LOT. 4 major projects, 3 exams, zybooks reviews, in-class assigments, programming HW's, and doesn't read off slides. If you want an A and can't give 20+ hrs weekly you will struggle, but I promise the challenge is worth it.

Very time-consuming, but very rewarding class. Lectures aren't incredible, but they're helpful in understanding the material. Projects take a lot of time, a minimum of 8-10 hours on average for me, but they help greatly in building your programming skills. If you can, taking this class will make you a much better programmer and problem-solver.

This class has lots of projects and textbook assignments that will keep you busy. If you are familiar with object-oriented programming, this class is pretty easy. Otherwise it can be difficult. Instructions can sometimes be confusing, and this class relies on overpriced ZyBooks ($50 fee), but otherwise he is a great professor who wants you to learn

Professor Smith is a great professor and you will definitely learn from the course,but your grade will all depend on time management and your sanity. If you have a lot of hard courses going on at the same time, or work, and don't have great time management skills I would recommend taking someone else and saving your mental health.

This professor isn't actually that hard per se, there are just some very large projects that you NEED to have good time management for. He explains the concepts clearly and is very available for questions. All the work I did really advanced my understandings of the concepts and coding in general, not busywork at all.

Everything you need to finish the homeworks is taught very well during lectures after already being explained by the preview homework. If you are interested in Computer Science you will do well. Projects take time but start them early and you wont have problems. Tests are hard but you get 1/2 points back on MC. Best Prof if you want to learn.

He uses zybooks to teach you the course, he does very little of the c++ teaching himself, he teaches your the big ideas in class. His projects are long but doable, he's pretty available on piazza for help on projects. Plenty of extra-credit, exams aren't weighted much and are pretty doable. Just be sure to learn from zybooks and do the projects.

I only have two issues with Professor Smith: - Project descriptions at times can be ambiguous, which does not pair well with Zybooks - While part of learning a language is the syntax, a little too much of the test content focuses on it Other than that he is a great professor. Certainly difficult, but the kind of difficult that makes you learn.

He's good at explaining concepts to a general audience. It helps to practice coding outside of class, with each structure/concept you learn. The projects are a lot of time, but they're reasonable. he answers questions accordingly.

The class is difficult and covers a lot of concepts, but it is worth the work. Don't underestimate the projects, especially project 1. Professor is fair, and these projects along with his lectures and homework will make you a into a powerful computer science student.

Professor Smith is a great professor. He is very good at explaining concepts and making sure we understand. The projects are very doable once you get into the groove of coding in C++. One drawback is that most of the coding is done outside of class, which I'm not keen on. Overall, great class.

You won't regret taking this professor. His class is pretty demanding, but he gives great lectures and will teach you everything you need to know for CS3345. I took his class in Fall 2022, and looking back he made the subsequent CS classes feel easy. As long as you attend class and start the projects at least a week before they are due, it's great

This class is a ton of work, but introduces object oriented programming well. Smith explains concepts way better than other CS professors I have had. The projects will prepare you well for tests. Professor is very available and helpful to students. That being said, coding problems with no IDE's and no access to documentation? Not ideal.

Good professor, hard class. Lectures can be a bit monotonous, but you definitely learn a ton. He is understanding and open to questions. Relies on ZyBooks for online textbook, homeworks, and project submissions. Manage your time and get started early on the projects. Take him if you want to learn, but it won't be easy.

Do not procrastinate on the projects (zybooks) they aren't hard just time consuming. Lectures are not organized and he makes up things on the spot. We fell behind from the syllabus because he lets people ask time consuming theoretical questions which they could look up on their own. He is always accessible though and overall class was not bad

Honestly, if you got a 5 in AP CSA, then you're gonna be fine in this class. Projects are a time commitment but doable if you focus up. My only gripe is that for the majority of projects, you only get 12 submissions, and if there's a compiler error or warning by the compiler, it will waste one of the submissions, which I think is unfair.

I took Smith for 1337 and now 2336, he's an amazing professor that cares heavily about your grades/understanding of material. Projects need time management but if done correctly can heavily impact your grade (45% of total grade). Only discrepancy I had was the grader was horrible which isn't his fault. Overall, best prof in the department.

Smith is by far the best professor to take for 2337. That being said, projects will take a lot of time so if you procrastinate you might struggle. Exams were easy, typically 2 coding and 15-20 mc questions. Majority of grade comes from projects.

Many assignments including readings, 5 homeworks, 6 in-class assignments, 2 tests, and 4 projects (but can learn a lot). Lectures mostly repeat information in the textbook. Strict policies which include tracking attendance and no computers in class. Required textbook is expensive. Very responsive and accessible out of class. Also, a slow grader.

He's great if you're truly invested in the subject. Homework and projects can be difficult but manageable. There's no coding in class, as his lectures will cover more concepts than code. Overall he's great, but difficult.

challenging, caring. projects are long and complicated, especially w/o a working C++ background. READ THE TEXTBOOK FOR EXAMS (I realized this during the last exam). start early. very accessible outside of class and very caring. wants students to do well and succeed. basically learning vs GPA. great person. I don't regret taking him.

Projects can be time-consuming, but Prof. Smith's clear lectures and helpful feedback make it worth the effort. Use tools like unstuckstudy ai to stay on track. Challenging but rewarding class.

I took him for 1337 as well and learned to manage my time significantly better. His lectures are nice, very easy to talk to and kind. IF YOU DO NOT MANAGE YOUR TIME WELL, you will fail. Lots of work, but the syllabus is EXTREMELY lenient in terms of failing or doing bad on a couple things (will not kill your grade). You will learn a lot with him.

This professor's lectures are top-tier and absolutely worth going to. He's a genuinely helpful and nice person who is knowledgeable about computer science and doesn't hesitate to help you if you have questions. The projects in this class can be frustrating because of formatting issues, but are necessary to understand if you want to succeed.

Professor Smith is hands down one of the best professors at UTD. His class can be tough as he gives lengthy assignments which can pile up with other classes. However he is a really good teacher and he is understanding. Exams were tough but not impossible. I would retake him anytime under the condition that I had no other class to worry for.

Amazing person and lectures, his weight of the grades is very lenient too. The only thing is that the exams are more specific than generalized and the amount of homework is ATROCIOUS combined with other classes. Time management is your best friend to stay afloat. He is also very understanding when it comes to personal situations. 8/10 prof

I took him for 1337 and he is extremely consistent in the way he teaches. You learn a lot, and his lectures are really engaging- never a power point. His exams got better this semester, and his grading is super fair. Time management is still your best friend, but if you can do that, you're golden. My favorite prof at UTD for SURE. Super chill too.

Very consistent schedule — one of few professors who has the entire semester laid out in syllabus, which makes managing the heavy workload much more manageable. Balanced grading criteria, detailed lectures, and well-thought-out assignments (rarely busy work). Accessible inside and outside class — will never make you feel as dumb as your questions.

He wasn't super difficult and the grade is determined on a lot of different things (you can fail a quiz and still make an A-). Projects are difficult (but not impossible) and you should start at least 3 days before the due date. I found him to be reasonable with grading.

Jason Smith gets a lot of rep about being the worst professor ever. I disagree. Professor Smith's class helped me wonders in the world of computer science and inspired me to start my own projects. He uses project based learning, which is homework heavy, but really helps you feel prepared for quizzes and exams.

He's great. As he says at the first class, you'll have to learn outside class but he'll direct you(mostly zybooks). I think he was slow paced which is good if you didn't get it the first time. I don't know why this is not talked about but his "wisdom & quotes" are superb. He is a person that shows passion to teaching and a mentor.

Great professor, I wish he taught higher level courses. There are large projects which can be tough but not extremely challenging if you know what you're doing. He's also super helpful, if you go to his office hours when you're stuck or lost points on an assignment he will give you the information you need and give you some credit for your work.

Prof Smith was great despite what his reviews say.. even if I ended with a C in the class, my opinion would not change. He cares for his students and is passionate. He also has pretty meh jokes in his weekly emails but theyre a breath of fresh air. He also gives very inspiring words and things to think about.