3.7

Jay Gamble

English - University of Lethbridge

3.7
Quality
3.9
Difficulty
59%
Would Retake
158
Reviews
3.7
Quality
3.9
Difficulty
3.7
Helpful
3.8
Clarity

59%

Would Retake

158

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

80

4

32

3

10

2

14

1

22

What Students Say

Don't miss out on an amazing course because of "late essay return" comments

ENG1900 - 5.0 rating

Jay has helped me fall even more in love with literature

ENG3001 - 4.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

65%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 50 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (10)
B (9)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(8)B(14)C(13)D(3)F(1)A-/B+(14)
Based on 64 reported grades
Not sure yet: 10
B: 9
A-: 9
C+: 8
Common Tags
Get ready to read (38)
Tough grader (25)
Participation matters (18)
Amazing lectures (12)
Hilarious (11)
Tough Grader (11)
Gives good feedback (9)
Inspirational (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.74 avg change
Nov
Dec
Mar
Apr
Sep
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ENG2200

5.0

(2)

ENGL239

5.0

(1)

ENG3000

5.0

(1)

ENGL1000

5.0

(2)

CANADIANLIT

5.0

(2)
+17 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ENGLI1900

5.0

ENGL2300

5.0

ENGL1000

4.5

ENG2700

4.1

ENG2200

4.0

Reviews (158)
5.0
5.0
ENG1900
Nov 27, 2007

Super funny, nice, and interesting! Goes off topic alot. Marks ridiculously hard for a 1000 level course. Expects alot, but gives really good help if you go into his office.

4.0
5.0
ENG1900
Nov 27, 2007

Funny, nice guy. Marks ridiculously hard though.Easy reading quizzes worth 10%.Expects alot. Learned alot from him, but would not take another course with him.

4.0
5.0
ENGLI1900
Dec 1, 2007

No Comments

4.0
5.0
ENG1900
Dec 10, 2007

The class was spent in discussion. This was good but I didn't learn anything since the discussions were not very structured.

5.0
4.0
ENG2200
Dec 12, 2007

Awesome prof! A lot of class discussion that is not only applicable to the course, but also interesting. He does mark hard but he's open minded and willing to help both in and outside of class. Loved essay workshops, very helpful! Overall great prof, would definitely take another class from him!!

5.0
3.0
ENGL239
Dec 17, 2007

I took an option course with him here at the U of C duringsummer semester before he left. I've been pissed ever since, I would have loved to have taken another english course with him before finishing up my undergrad. I would definitely reccommend him. If you know how to work hard, you won't settle less than an A-.

5.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Mar 31, 2008

My favorite Prof ever!!! he wants to teach, doesn't lecture and takes your opinion seriously. Very excited, interesting and intelligent.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Apr 7, 2008

Amazing prof. Jay is interesting and creative. He wants his students to succeed. He is a hard marker but he is fair and willing to help. My essays improved from a C to an A- by the end of the course. Lots of class discussion..very helpful.

5.0
4.0
ENG3001
Sep 2, 2008

He's so poetical.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Sep 5, 2008

Jay is a great teacher because he actually teaches! I learned so much in the class especially in terms of writing. He's a hard marker but if you have any motivation it forces you to improve and believe me you will if you just follow what he instructs. Good readings; a little bit of everything. He's a challenge but I definitely recommend him!

5.0
4.0
ENG3000
Nov 20, 2008

Amazing class! Completely changed my opinion of Canadian literature. Brilliant professor with a genuine interest in the material. (very attractive as well) His office help is very useful, as are his essay workshops. Take his courses!

5.0
4.0
ENGL2100
Dec 4, 2008

Jay is my favorite prof ever! I have taken three classes with him and if I could do all my english courses with him I would! He makes the course material interesting and he is very approachable. Hands down my favorite!

5.0
2.0
ENG1900
Feb 9, 2009

Brilliant, eccentric, and slightly mad, never shying away from a subject or thought. Never talked down to us and treated us as equals while encouraging us to speak our mind. Could say he's not afraid to 'go there' with any subject or train of thought. Engaging teaching tactics and to-the-point lessons, if possible you MUST take one of his classes!

5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Apr 16, 2009

made class interesting and encouraged class discussion. a tough marker, but I saw a huge improvement on my second paper and the final was easy. overall, a pretty good 1900 prof

3.0
5.0
ENG1900
May 27, 2009

Not a very good prof at all. Very hard marker.

4.0
4.0
ENG2300
Jun 19, 2009

I think he is a great professor. I really enjoyed going to his class, although I hated Experimental Poetry, and I would only take another class because he teaches enjoyably. He marks really hard on essays and that's what scares me out of taking regular Poetry with him... I don't want another low grade!!

3.0
4.0
ENGL2700
Aug 26, 2009

Jay is an amazing professor, but he marks essays really hard. I absolutely LOVED being in his class because he's so enthusiastic about experimental poetry and knew his stuff and made it fun, but because he marks so hard my GPA suffered a bit and it scared me out of taking another class with him unfortunately...

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 24, 2009

An inspiring teacher. I switched my major to English after his class. He doesn't just feed you information and expect you to regurgitate it back,; he makes you think. He fosters your own ability to think for yourself and draw your own connections and conclusions.

4.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Nov 26, 2009

Wonderful teacher, tough marker.He's so in his head about it, it made me love English even more.

2.0
5.0
ENG1900
Nov 26, 2009

Jay is very intersting and if your a genius you'll enjoy his class unfortunately not a good classs if you don't know how to write a university level essay and very frusterating to try to learn how to in his class..very hard marker

4.0
5.0
ENG1900
Dec 24, 2009

He can be very funny and class can be enjoyable at times but an extremely hard marker!!

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Mar 4, 2010

Loved Jay! Such a great prof you can tell how passionate he is about his job. He is a relatively hard marker but it makes you a better writer. One of my favorite and most challenging classes.

5.0
5.0
ENGL1900
Mar 26, 2010

Excellent Prof, hard marker. take writing 1000 before taking this class it will make the difference between a C and and A id english is preq. for a grad program.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Mar 30, 2010

Jay is a fantastic professor. He is a fair marker; his expectations are made clear right early on and he sticks to them. Brilliant man! Amazing teacher! Love, love, loved his class!!!!! The class is so interesting.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Apr 10, 2010

Wonderful Instructor, I learned lots.

5.0
5.0
ENGL1000
Apr 24, 2010

Very interesting prof, knows his stuff! I learned alot. Definitely not a GPA booster though. Expects perfect essays from first year students and its very discouraging. I'm an English major and I will not be taking another one of his courses unfortunately.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Jun 21, 2010

Jay was so great. Although he is a really hard marker he makes his expectations clear at the start of the course and he is more than prepared to help you reach these expectations. He gets so excited during class discussion when you come up with a good point. All in all a great prof.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1000
Jul 7, 2010

Jay is an enthusiastic prof who genuinely wants to see his students succeed. Sure, he's a hard marker but there's nothing wrong with setting the bar high and making students work for their grade. Plus, he doesn't just grade your paper. He'll write where you need to improve. Wouldn't hesitate to take his class again.

4.0
4.0
ENG2700
Aug 4, 2010

Gamble is a very smart man, but what others perceive as his eccentricities, I often perceived as wishy-washy academia that is hard to understand or relate to. His essays are murder. Yes, I know he uses the "I make your writing better" excuse, but the constant scrutiny seemed a little silly considering the course level and bizarre source material.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Oct 10, 2010

Love, love, love this guy! Best prof in the department! He can be a tough marker. Make sure to focus on analysis rather than summary. His classes are inspiring and fun.

4.0
3.0
ENG1900
Oct 18, 2010

Phenominal!

5.0
3.0
ENGL1900
Dec 21, 2010

Jay's an interesting prof. He'll really get to know you if you speak up in class, but won't dock you marks if you don't. Even though people say he's a hard marker he's actually pretty middle of the road when compared to other profs in the department. His novel choices were interesting. I'd take another class from him :)

4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Dec 22, 2010

Jay is brilliant. Yeah, there's a lot of reading, but the amount of freedom he gives during class discussion is awesome and you really get insight out of it. He's nice, but expects a lot and wants you to push your ideas further. Relatively fair grading, but you need to be pretty good at writing essays. Final exam wasn't bad, with a dex haha.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Dec 26, 2010

Jay was really helpful and approachable. He marks your essays hard. And expects alot out of a first year class. You have to make up your own topic for your final research paper. However, he makes this easier by being available to look over essays and offer you positive feedback. Enjoyed the class. Tests are an easy 15% if you do the reading.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Mar 7, 2011

Very interesting guy to listen to. Marks hard, but you will learn a lot.

5.0
4.0
ENG2700
Apr 18, 2011

awesome class! very interesting and you can tell Jay likes teaching

5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Apr 23, 2011

Tremendous freedom to bring your own voice to this class - he helps you to use it effectively. Follow his lead and trust yourself. He is fair in his assessment. Do your readings - they are on the syllabus - use it and plan accordingly. Read, think, and have fun! This class offers you a perfect opportunity to push your boundaries and create!

3.0
4.0
ENG1990
May 4, 2011

Jay is an extremely hard marker!!!! Make sure you attend class regularly.

5.0
5.0
ENGL1900
Jun 17, 2011

He is a really fantastic professor and really helps you to engage in the material and concepts. However, he is a very hard marker but if you attend class regularly and go for help MULTIPLE times before handing in each essay, you can definitely do well.

4.0
5.0
ENG2700
Nov 22, 2011

I found that he is very eager to teach his students however the content is difficult. but as a prof he does his very best to translate the difficult material

3.0
5.0
ENG1900
Nov 26, 2011

The best part about Jay's teaching is that he really gets students to think outside the box. Lots of class discussions and group work. The content is hard but he makes the class worth it. Do the readings and pay attention. He grades hard, but you learn a lot.

5.0
3.0
ENG2700
Dec 8, 2011

An amazing prof. Although I wasn't a fan of a lot of the readings we had to do, the class discussions were awesome and made me actually want to go to class. I'd definitely recommend him.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Dec 8, 2011

Jay is a lot of fun. He is enthusiastic and makes an effort to get to know his students. The readings can be strange and uninteresting at times but the class discussions are fun for those involved. Warning, he does have very high expectations for essays. I believe he is worth it though.

5.0
3.0
ENGL1900
Dec 10, 2011

Easily the most rewarding course I've ever taken. Jay will treat you as a colleague before he treats you as a student, and his willingness to let you take the course in your own direction is incredibly refreshing. Utilize office hours, make sure to have readings complete prior to attending class, and enjoy. Highly recommended.

5.0
4.0
ENG2700
Dec 11, 2011

Jay is an amazing teacher, his passion for literature makes his classes rewarding. Although the text can be difficult, as long you as go to him for help and bring your essays to him before you hand them in you will get a good grade. It is not an easy A and you definitely have to work for it, but it's worth it in the end.

4.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Dec 26, 2011

I am no ENLG major but I think this class was wicked. It gave me a new perspective on literature and poetry. Gamble essays are not easy by any extent. However, if you go to him for a little guidance during the writing process you will do pretty well. I looked forward to this class twice a week and now I am pretty sad its over :( a must take FSHOW!

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Jan 16, 2012

He's really tough, but completely fair. He marks you based on how far out there you put yourself. If you want to really blow your mind take any of his classes!

2.0
5.0
ENG1900
Apr 21, 2012

He was a horrible professor and I would never take any class with him again. I took Eng 1900 two times with him and the first time he gave me an F and the second time when I did every assignment, passed every quiz, passed every essay and final he gave me a D+ and I am a A and B student of management. Horrible professor at the university

5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Nov 21, 2012

Im and English major who was on the verge of switching to a science major because I didnt think I loved English enough to major in it. Jay Gamble made me fall in love with English!He is an amazing proff and I strongly encourage people to take his class.You dont have to be good at English to do well in his class!you need to try and he will help you

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Nov 28, 2012

he will give you the mark you deserve. If he knows you, your mark tends to reflect that. Overall, hes fantastic and made me fall in love with poetry and all aspects of English. Some of the material is dry but with him there is never a dull moment. LOVE LOVE LOVE jay gamble.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Dec 12, 2012

Jay was HILARIOUS. I am not an english major, and I dreaded having to take an English class, but he made it so interesting! Tough marker though.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Dec 14, 2012

Great guy. His english class always flies by super quickly. Recommended

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Dec 15, 2012

Jay's passion for teaching English is what makes his class so rewarding. English was never my strongest suit (still isn't) but he has made me appreciate literature more. There are 2 essays (one of which is a research essay) and 5 reading quizzes. His essays are by no means easy, but he will give you the grade you deserve. Jay is awesome!

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Apr 16, 2013

Jay is passionate about the subject, which makes the class fun. He's a fair marker, but he expects you to try really hard and go through the readings carefully. The books that he chooses are amazing-- he introduced me to some of my favourite authors/poets.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Oct 18, 2013

amazing prof! His class is awesome and he is hilarious! However, is is a hard marker. He made class fun!

4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B
Nov 26, 2013

Hard class. Must do all the readings or you will be very lost and unable to participate or write your assignments.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Dec 10, 2013

Jay is an amazing guy! One of my favorite profs at the university! Make sure you attend classes though, if not you will have no idea about what is going on! Also, difficult marker, but that is also because he is the head of the department :)Make sure you can write a good essay! Also, participate in class discussions, they really help!

2.0
4.0
ENGL2000
Dec 12, 2013

I don't know what prof everyone else on here had, but Gamble really dropped the ball this semester. Whoever said Jay was the head of the department...WRONG. Jay doesn't even have his Ph.D yet. He has extremely high expectations, yet limits his office hours, and vaguely answers your questions. It took him a month to hand back essays. Not impressed.

2.0
3.0
ENGL2000
Dec 12, 2013

Jay was very unprofessional this semester. He was often not at his office hours. He brought his child to class once and took a long time getting essay marks back. He would say that we would get our marks back on a certain day, and then kept missing the deadline. In comparison to other English profs at the UofL Jay is not somebody I would recommend.

2.0
5.0
ENGL2000
Dec 16, 2013

Jay says he "marks for a 2000 level course" - I'd love to see what he would give 3000/4000 level students. His class is very difficult and he provides little if any support in writing your essay or increasing your mark. Office hours are MANDATORY Jay... be there. Or at least e-mail us to let us know you won't be.

4.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Dec 21, 2013

One of my favorite professors. Very funny, but really difficult class. You have to do all the reading or you won't do well at all. I would definitely take a class with him again!

5.0
3.0
ENGL1900
Dec 29, 2013

My favourite prof by far! He's a tough marker and expects you to work hard. You also must attend class and do your readings. He's a super funny guy and easy to go to if you have any problems.

5.0
3.0
CANADIANLIT
Mar 12, 2014

Jay is my absolute favourite prof I have had in three years of being at U of L as an English major. He is passionate about what he teaches and it always makes for an interesting, thought provoking class. Jay doesn't just lecture at you, he actually gets the class involved in class discussion. Picks great texts. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

2.0
5.0
ENGL2300
Mar 31, 2014

He is a very tough marker. He doesn't give any indication of what he wants for an assignment until just before it is due. He takes a very long time to grade papers. If you value your GPA, run, fast.

2.0
5.0
ENG2700
Apr 1, 2014

I usually get A's on papers, so it was surprising to see a B-/C+. His comments dont make sense, especially when i touched on topics from class. He tends to agree to everything said in class discussion, and then mark you wrong on a subjective topic. Not happy. Furthermore, 50% of his class is him throwing out names of other poets, not teaching.

2.0
3.0
ENGL2700
Jun 15, 2014

I had no idea what i was getting into! NOT an Engl major but Jay made class really interesting and really stretched my knowledge of what language is and thinking of what is art. He has a passion for this course however he is SO SLOW at getting papers back. I received 85% of my final mark in the last 12 days go the semester. Stressful!

5.0
4.0
ENG2001
Aug 1, 2014

Jay does not teach you. Jay provides you with the tools necessary to teach yourself. This is initially frustrating, but ultimately fruitful. There is no other professor I'd recommended more highly than Jay. His expectations are not unreasonable. Contrary, his expectation is that you find your way, with guidance along the way. The onus is on you.

2.0
5.0
ENGL1900
Nov 14, 2014

Super tough guy!! He has so precise requirements for his papers! If it was not a prerequisite, I would have never taken this course. I am not an English Major or am interested in Literature and hence, never felt the need to give the time demanded by this course. The instructor wants extreme dedication which is too demanding.

5.0
3.0
ENGL2600
Grade: A-
Nov 17, 2014

An incredible professor and by far the best I have experienced at this university. Lectures are engaging, thought provoking, and informative. He exudes passion and inspires his students. I would take every single class from him if I could. I highly recommend Jay.

4.0
5.0
ENG1900
Nov 17, 2014

Lectures are interesting because he gets people to participate and actually cares about their opinions. He takes the time out to remember your name. Papers are tough, but it's an English class, so what do you expect? He has pop quizzes, but he's always very clear about when they are going to be. Nice guy, tough class.

2.0
5.0
ENGL1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 18, 2014

He said he will upload sample essays on moodle but never did and later sent email apologizing giving family as a reason. His expectations are of a graduate student, I was amused by the long list of do's n don'ts he shared in essay workshop. He would agree to everythng in class and reject everythng in paper. Save your grade, just skip him.

3.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: C+
Jan 12, 2015

The lectures in Jay's class were extremely interesting. All students were encouraged to participate in class discussions, but were not forced to as there were no participation requirements. He was an extremely tough marker when it came to essays. Jay was a great lecturer, but if your looking for an A skip taking this class with him.

3.0
4.0
ENGL2100
Grade: B
Jan 15, 2015

His lectures are interesting and entertaining. His poetry reading skills are fabulous. He reads the poems with so much heart and you can tell he really loves poetry. That said, he is also quite vague on essay requirements, marks hard, and expects a lot out of them for a 2000 level course. I found I did much better on the tests than the papers.

3.0
4.0
1900
Apr 13, 2015

Jay is a good teacher but I found myself skipping class more often than attending as I found that he did not relay the information in a way which was relevant. I took this class because he was recommended as an interesting teacher but I would not take a class with him again. Not worth the commitment for a first year required business course

4.0
4.0
ENGLISH1900
Apr 29, 2015

Hard to know how to rate him. Nice approachable guy, fairly engaging lectures. He dedicates a lot of classtime to providing guidance for the essays and exams. At the same time, he has quite high expectations for a first year English course, so if English is not your strong suit and you need a high GPA, he may not be the best prof to take ENG1900.

4.0
3.0
ENG3001
Grade: A-
Jun 17, 2015

Jay has helped me fall even more in love with literature. His passion is infectious and he is incredibly insightful. Classes are discussion and lecture based. He loves what he does, he knows his stuff, and it is a solid guarantee that if you walk in with a positive open mind you will walk out with a wealth of knowledge. Hands down my favourite prof

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Grade: A-
Sep 2, 2015

Interesting lectures, great texts - I switched into English because of his first year class. I would strongly recommend any of his classes.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Grade: B-
Dec 1, 2015

Jay is hands down the most inspiring professor I've had. As an English major, I highly recommend taking his introduction to literature class to get you started. His classes are organized, and the class discussions are heated. Also he has a great sense of humor. Never a dull moment!

5.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Grade: A-
Dec 14, 2015

Jay is my absolute favourite Prof! His lectures are fascinating and tells you exactly what he expects in your essays. Don't miss out on taking one of his classes!

5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Dec 15, 2015

Jay was an amazing prof and for a first university English course, I would highly recommend him. Love, love, looooved Jay.

5.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Dec 16, 2015

Jay has quizzes on some readings but they are not pop-quizzes. He gives very direct "hints" the class before a quiz. Jay is a tough marker. He gives split grades which I dislike. He marks tough to make it fair to the students who work hard and write A papers. I enjoyed Jay's lectures. He keeps them interesting and the discussion flows.

5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Jan 9, 2016

Jay sets clear expectations, and encourages passionate class discussions. His lectures are never dull, and I would recommend this course to any student who is taking English 1900. I am happy to say I am pursuing an English degree following Jay's class. Don't miss out on an amazing course because of "late essay return" comments. Life happens.

4.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: C+
Mar 15, 2016

The best professor I have ever had for English. You will spent most of the class ripping your sides laughing as he has very creative ways in his use of humour. His lectures are fun and he tries to incorporate everyone in the class as a part of the discussion. His selection of books is not bad either. Subtitle to this class: Jay's Favourite Books.

5.0
4.0
ENG2200
Grade: A
Sep 19, 2016
Would take again

caring genius

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 2, 2016
Would take again

Love Jay's class, I personally don't like english at all but he makes it fun. I find myself laughing and paying attention in his class. He's a hard marker so you definitely have to put the effort in but totally worth it. If you have the option, do take it with him!!

Tough Grader
Hilarious
Caring
4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 15, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Really amazing prof. Classes with Jay seem to fly by because he is super interesting. His quizzes are very specific, but he always lets you know when they will be. You definitely have to commit a lot time to do well in this class. I ended up having to drop because I couldn't commit that much time to it, but you definitely won't get bored.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: A-
Nov 17, 2016
Wouldn't take again

He says he wants to hear your opinion, but really doesn't. I aced the course purely by picking the things (feminism, nothingness, and poetry) he liked and writing on them. As a woman I'm offended he (a man) is telling me I NEED feminism. I would absolutely not recommend Gamble to anyone. Not an impossible class, just a bad prof.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Dec 12, 2016
Would take again

Absolutely loved english with Jay, he was really good about extra office hours and was willing to read over your thesis for essays. You have to commit lots of time to this class and I found it a bit overwhelming with 5 courses but he was always passionate about what he talked about in class. Would take another course with him!

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B+
Jan 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Jay was a fantastic professor in class. He made you get excited about the texts and I usually left class excited for the next. If you attend class and do the assigned readings then pop quizzes are a breeze as the answers will seem obvious. In the essay workshop, he only tells what NOT to do, so essays were difficult to write and score well on.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: A-
Feb 7, 2017
Would take again

Amazing teacher, hard marker and makes you work but definitely worth it. A rewarding class and all the lectures and books are engaging.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
4.0
3.0
ENGL1900
Mar 29, 2017
Would take again

I found Jay to be a great prof. His ENGL1900 class has quite a bit of reading, but the books for the most part are interesting and his discussion of the books in class assure that you will understand most of what goes on. He is somewhat of a hard marker, but still reasonable and rather accessible. I would definitely take another class of his.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: C
Jun 19, 2017
Would take again

Jay is an awesome prof. He makes you want to participate and he keeps you engaged. He is really nice and helpful. While I believe him to be an incredibly hard grader and me believing I could have done better, I would take every one of my English classes with him if I could. Also: follow him on Twitter, you won't be disappointed.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Jul 17, 2017
Would take again

Probably the most engaging Prof I've ever had. My all-time best memory as an undergraduate was when he entered the lecture hall in full Cossack costume to talk about 'Animal Farm' and then rather than walk out of the class at the end, he split himself open to reveal progressively smaller Jay Gambles until he eventually disappeared. Pure commie-day.

Respected
Inspirational
Hilarious
2.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: B+
Aug 4, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Poses as a radical and tries way too hard to get attention. I don't buy it. Other than that, his class was okay.

5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B-
Nov 19, 2017
Would take again

Jay Gamble is an icon and I love him! However, if you're looking for an easy A, this class is not for you. He is known to be a hard marker and that's defo the case, but I in no way regret taking this class because he makes it so interesting.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 22, 2017
Would take again

Jay is a respectful, wonderful teacher. He utilizes class discussion as a means to encourage and show his love of these texts to his students. He provides good contextual evidence and plans his classes with a build-up that often makes the last statement of the lecture sort of mind-blowing. Very personal, and caring- but be ready to read weird stuff

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 24, 2017
Would take again

JAY IS A PHENOMENAL PROF. Yes, he is opinionated about some things (as we all are); the key thing is that he teaches you HOW to think and not WHAT to think. Taking his class altered my perspective on literature in so many ways. You have to work hard, but this is University so I feel like that isn't odd. Phenomenal.

Get ready to read
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 25, 2017
Would take again

Jay is such a character! He is incredibly engaging, funny, and ready to listen to different points of view from students. He isn't very accessible outside of class and is a tough marker but only to make you a better student. It isn't personal. He will change how you read literature though some of the material is dry. He's wonderful. Lots of reading

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
LIBED1150
Dec 7, 2017
Would take again

LIBED1150 was such a blast! I loved all the guest speakers.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Dec 8, 2017
Would take again

Amazing teacher, weird books. Whats not to love? O yeah the grading.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Amazing lectures
4.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: A
Mar 14, 2018
Would take again

Awesome lectures that open your mind and are very interesting and thoughtful. PARTICIPATE! He loves it and you'll get a better grade. What he expects is very straightforward and overall the final was not hard. Two essays are required and are easy as long as you listen to him! Don't do what you normally do. Learn!

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Hilarious
3.0
4.0
ENGLISH1900
Grade: C+
Apr 16, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Absolutely incredible lecturer. Reminded me of Dead Poets Society and I always felt so incredible after each lecture. That being said, a terrible marker. Barely gave any grading criteria and not a lot of feedback. Didn't respond to emails either.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: A
May 8, 2018
Would take again

Jay was great in class but very disorganized otherwise. Took long to respond to emails or didn't respond at all, took 8 weeks to get me back my first paper and didn't get me back my second one at all. Expects a lot of effort and will dock marks for late submissions but won't reciprocate that same effort. If you like feedback, don't take this class.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
4.0
ENGL2700
Oct 16, 2018
Would take again

Jay was a wonderful professor. His classes are eccentric but so fun. He is very understanding. His classes are different than traditional English classes and I found it very enjoyable

Participation matters
Inspirational
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Jun 10, 2019
Would take again

Jay was a dynamic teacher, who showed an obvious passion for literature. Often having personal connections to the texts, Jay provided anecdotes that added to the interesting nature of classes. Jay was extremely difficult to reach by email, yet that can be quickly resolved by visiting him at his office hours where he was very eager to help.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
ENG3800
Grade: B-
Jan 28, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Avoid this course at all costs. Yes, you will be able to practice your writing. You will get round robin student feedback in class. He doesn't answer emails. He is hard to meet with. He promises but doesn't mark assignments. Randomly hands out marks at the end of the class with no explanation. Doesn't follow syllabus. Will drag your average down.

1.0
3.0
ENG1900
Mar 25, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I would not recommend taking this class. Jay was engaging during lectures and had good insight but there were a lot of problems with this class. He either doesn't answer emails at all or doesn't get back to you in a timely matter. He misses many classes often and was overall a very difficult person to communicate with.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Participation matters
2.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B-
Apr 30, 2020
Would take again

I loved going to Jays lectures and participating in class. However, Jay is extremely difficult to contact over email, as he solemnly answers. This made things difficult when I would have questions about essays, especially since we didnt get any grades back for the entire year.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: B+
May 15, 2020
Would take again

Wonderful Prof, always interesting classes, great group discussions Moving to online had some difficulties but Jay is very understanding and we figured it all out.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Caring
4.0
3.0
ENGL2700
Grade: A
Jun 5, 2020
Would take again

Very interesting guy with some great insight but absolutely IMPOSSIBLE to contact outside of class. Never responded to a single email and grades were never uploaded to Moodle as he promised again and again. That being said, he is extremely caring and understanding, and I really enjoyed his class overall. Worth taking a semester with him.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
ENGL2700
Grade: A
Jun 18, 2020
Would take again

I had Jay for his Fantasy and Epics class. The lectures were great, Jay has some great insight on the texts. The below complaints about contacting him via email are true, however, moving forward he will be conducting office hours over zoom (even after classes resume to normal) which will provide an easy way to get in contact with him if you need.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG1990
Grade: B
Jun 23, 2020
Would take again

I once wrote him a thank you letter referring to him as Mr. Keating. Thats all I can say, he was fantastic

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Nov 2, 2020
Would take again

Truly an awesome guy, very good and engaging lectures! Jay is a gem and made me actually enjoy English class. 10/10 would recommend:)

Respected
Hilarious
Beware of pop quizzes
1.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Nov 2, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He never. ever. ever. answers emails. Super inaccessible. Also if you aren't into scansion don't take the course, it's a big deal for your midterm grade.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Grade: C+
Nov 17, 2020
Wouldn't take again

There are 3 weeks left in this semester and Jay has not graded a single essay or test and has yet to respond to any of my emails after 3 months. He does not show up for office hours and refuses to answer questions in or outside of class time. Jay has cancelled almost a third of the classes this semester and has not done anything to make up for it.

2.0
4.0
ENGL2100
Nov 24, 2020
Wouldn't take again

In the past when I have taken classes with him, my only complaint is that he NEVER answers emails. After this semester, I have no idea what to say or where to begin. Jay has canceled more classes than I can count with little to no notice, has not marked anything and his class has been disappointing. 3 weeks left and I have no idea how I am doing.

Get ready to read
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: A-
Dec 2, 2020
Would take again

Jay is a character, but you'll love him. He is very passionate about what he does and will do some pretty crazy things throughout the semester. He picks some very interesting things to read in this course and prepares you well for what is to come in other English courses. Get ready to READ!!!

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Grade: C+
Dec 4, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Jay is an incredible lecturer, is engaging and really knows his stuff, but hes impossible to contact (email or otherwise), cancels class constantly with no warning, and does not mark work or return any work

Inspirational
Amazing lectures
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Jay is an excellent and passionate lecturer and he really cares for his students. His lectures were engaging and interesting and I really liked them. However, he is so hard to get a hold of outside of class and takes a long time to mark, making it hard to really enjoy the class because you are worried about everything else.

Caring
Hilarious
Get ready to read
1.0
5.0
ENGL2100
Dec 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I have never been in a class that was such a chaotic mess. Thank god I have been in other English classes prior or I would have been totally turned off on the entire subject. Jay never shows up or answers emails, in class questions, never marks anything and leaves us stranded in our own thoughts. I had to go to previous instructors for help. awful

1.0
5.0
ENGL2100
Jan 13, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The worst prof I have ever had. Jay cancelled more classes than we actually received, does not respond to emails or questions and spends all his class time on twitter while his students wait in the zoom call. I would avoid Jay at all costs and do not think he is fit to be teaching. The worst experience I have ever had in post secondary,

5.0
3.0
ENG3001
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 11, 2021
Would take again

Jay was phenomenal this class and his lectures are very organized. As long as you have read the material before class, you won't feel lost. He did grade for participation but the lectures are fun and not too dull for an early morning class. There's a lot of writing when it comes to his essay but he does provide useful feedback!

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Class was ok, unless youre an English major its difficult, I was expecting a book or two, not 4 and the textbook

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
1.0
ENG1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 2, 2021
Would take again

Jay is an awesome prof and truly cares about his students. He does struggle with posting grades online, which is confusing approaching finals. He rarely answers emails, but does read them. It is better if you talk to him during his office hours. One of my favourite profs and is very passionate about what he teaches. Pop quizzes are never a surprise

Respected
Get ready to read
Caring
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Dec 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Some advice: spend less time on Twitter and more time teaching your students. I feel like I'd have a better time reaching him if it was done over social media. I would not consider taking a future class with Dr. Gamble and he does seem to have an issue in separating his political aspirations from the "real world".

2.0
4.0
ENGL2000
Dec 13, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I have mixed feelings about Jay. I feel like he has great potential to be an amazing teacher, but the fact that he lets his everyday stress affect his teaching made his teaching style mediocre. I know some people liked him, but I personally did not like his teaching style or class. He is a hard marker, and he is opinionated. I will avoid if possib

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
ENGL1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 20, 2021
Wouldn't take again

If you are not an English major have fun. Over 60% of the courses mark come from writing papers which he gives very little advice on. Jay gave three essay workshop lectures where he told us everything you learned about essay writing in highschool is wrong and then proceeded to tell us what not to do rather than what to do. Very hard to contact

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 20, 2021
Would take again

Jay is an incredible prof! He is so encouraging of all his students. I highly recommend participating in lectures and seeing Jay for feedback during office hours. It makes the class so much more enjoyable. The material he picked for the class was incredibly interesting and I enjoyed all of it. Highly reccomend.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
ENG1900
Jan 3, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Was very insensitive and hard to contact. Never posted any marks on moodle, so you are completely lost the whole term.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: C
Jan 3, 2022
Wouldn't take again

This dude doesnt actually explain anything he expects all students to be die hard english majors already. Explains things as if you already know them and as if he is just brushing back over it. Avoid this class

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: Rather not say
Mar 22, 2022
Would take again

Jay is a spectacular professor. He is very clear about what needs to be read before class and his class discussions are phenomenal because he values student input on texts and readings. He is very big on the phrase "I want you to disagree with me as long as you can tell me why" so be prepared to back up an argument! 10/10 would take again

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Respected
5.0
4.0
CANADIANLIT
Grade: A+
Mar 26, 2022
Would take again

Jay is the best English prof at Uleth. I highly recommend any of his courses.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Respected
4.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: C+
Jul 15, 2022

Jay's a good professor but can be a bit over the place sometimes so play close attention so you won't get lost. Also, take serious advantage of his office hours and don't procrastinate in this course because you will regret it! Nice summer course to take especially if you like reading.

Get ready to read
Group projects
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 18, 2023
Would take again

Prof. Jay Gamble is so very amazing at what he does. So passionate that even someone who does not like English class could love his Poetry class. Spectacular readings. Missing a class just sucks. If you're not a morning person, don't sign up for morning classes. Tests are in-class though and he does not use Moodle enough. Love him anyway. The best.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Inspirational
4.0
5.0
ENGL2100
Grade: B
Apr 25, 2023
Would take again

Super interesting lectures and he is very knowledgable. You'll have fun in his classes. However, he is a very hard marker. The type that doesn't hand out A's to anyone. He also does not provide good feedback. I received many things with MANY marks off and only good comments from him which left me confused where marks were missing.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
4.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: B+
Apr 27, 2023
Would take again

Good professor but marks hard and has a high standard for a first-year class. Going to class and office hours is important for success.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Grade: A
May 14, 2023
Would take again

I'm not an English major, so two essays analyzing poetry felt like a mountain to climb... but Jay gave me all the tools I needed. Jay is very encouraging and inspiring. He held extended office hours two weeks leading up to essay due dates, and provided very constructive and concise feedback. Great prof!

Amazing lectures
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
ENG2700
Grade: B
Jun 30, 2023
Would take again

Jay was amazing. By far the best English Prof I've had so far. Very understanding, and his lecture style is very engaging. Leaves the door open for conversation, and gives you lots of reasons to attend class. Wants you to succeed. Would absolutley take him again, but maybe not for a condensed summer term as there was piles of reading.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Accessible outside class
1.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 27, 2023

Jay always says what not to do and not what you can do which is confusing. he spends most of his time telling us to engage but never gives a chance for discussion. he never responds to emails and marks are always delayed or never posted unless you go to his office hours. his office hours are not helpful as he cancels appointments or leaves.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: C+
Oct 17, 2023

I genuinely have never met such a terrible prof. Have been a straight A+ student my entire academic career. This class made my GPA plummet and Jay was useless. He gives no feedback, isn't clear on grading expectations, and all in all just isn't great. I suggest avoiding him at all costs. He's so full of himself and it's genuinely annoying.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: C
Oct 17, 2023

Don't want to be that guy but, Jay does play favourites. If you want to do well prepare to go above and beyond and always raise your hand and make yourself known. If you aren't actively adding to the lecture you're note going to do well - don't forget to make it political. Don't know why he makes everything political but he does.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B
Jan 23, 2024
Would take again

Despite being a tough marker; i really liked Jay, the way he taught was so fun and had so much variety. Go to his office hours for help and sucess in his class.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
4.0
4.0
ENGL2100
Grade: B+
Apr 23, 2024
Would take again

Jay is great. He's passionate, and expects his students to at least engage with material. If you like English, you'll get something out of his class. Wouldn't reccomend him to anyone who is bored by literature. His marking can be a little intense so not a GPA booster, but if you engage and put in genuine effort, you'll do fine.

1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: F
Sep 21, 2024

Wrote essay, got flagged for plagarism, he called on zoom at 9 am demanding i explain why i had written 4th year material as a first year, dean sided with him i got academic misconduct and plagarism on my record even with the proof i had, 4.0 gpa dropped to 0.3 even though all classes were A's, kicked off deans list, dropped out switched schools.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
ENG1900
Grade: A+
Oct 25, 2024
Would take again

He drops marks iif you ask nicely, show up to class and you are good

Participation matters
Group projects
Hilarious
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Oct 25, 2024

Don't take the calss...

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B
Nov 12, 2024
Would take again

Professor Jay has a specific teaching style that can be challenging, but engaging with it pays off. Attend class, use the textbook, and utilize resources like unstuckstudy - it really helps with study prep. Overall, a rewarding course if you're willing to put in the work.

4.0
4.0
ENGL2100
Grade: A-
Dec 8, 2024
Would take again

Jay marks hard, but you can tell he genuinely enjoys the class material and is available to help you if you go to office hours. He is very open to class discussion, try to participate in class. He does not use moodle- go to class or you wont know what's going on.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: C
Dec 12, 2024

He'll say at the beginning of the year that he will not impose his wildly radical political ideology on you, but will "challenge your worldview" with the literature that he selects. There are absolutely no class resources if you miss something. All his lectures that are worthwhile to attend are pre-recorded videos.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 19, 2024

Please don't take his class. He's the worst prof I have taken in my life

1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: C-
Dec 19, 2024

The worst prof I have ever studied with. He is really unaccommodating, he has a really vague way to marks. Tough grader. I would recommend it if you wanna lower your GPA. Not kidding guys, I thought the same that nobody would be like that but I was wrong. I hate him to the very existence.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: C+
Mar 17, 2025
Would take again

Jay is a really fun prof and you can tell he genuinely cares about the content. He can be a bit of an oddball sometimes but that makes the classes more interesting. VERY tough grader, I definitely recommend going to the writing center for help with your papers, at least the first one, that one really scared me when I got my grade back.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
ENG1900
Grade: B
Mar 18, 2025
Would take again

Jay is clearly passionate about teaching. This class has tons of reading so get ready! I enjoyed his lectures, and he gives great feedback in the in-class workshops. He is a TOUGH grader! Oh my gosh, I questioned my major. My advice: meet with him BEFORE attempting the graded work in the testing center to help you prepare! This will help a lot!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
1900
Grade: B
Mar 19, 2025
Would take again

Jay was awesome. I hate English and he made it enjoyable. Yes we had to read multiple books however they were enjoyable books. He was more than happy to help with essays and papers outside of class. Super awesome guy!

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Inspirational
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: B-
Apr 8, 2025

Makes an intro class unnecessarily difficult. Copious amount of readings for a first year class, ended up spending most of my time this semester working on the required readings/assignments. Would not recommend taking unless you are very passionate about reading and have a lot of free time to dedicate to this class.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
ENG1900
Grade: A-
Sep 9, 2025
Would take again

Jay is a very engaging professor who clearly is passionate about his work. He does grade a little more on the hard side, but if you explain your reasoning for your work you can get a higher grade. I would take his class again, he tries to make it interesting. If you show up, do the work, and participate you'll get through 1900 class fine.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
3.0
ENGL2100
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 5, 2025
Would take again

Big fan of Jay. If you want to do well, just show up and participate in discussion. Make yourself known. Lectures are amazing, and doing well on exams depends on attendance and taking notes in class, there are no lecture slides. One of my favourite english profs at uleth.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ENG1900
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 12, 2025

If you're not religious, pick one and pray!

Tough grader
Lots of homework
So many papers
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

65%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 50 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (10)
B (9)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(8)B(14)C(13)D(3)F(1)A-/B+(14)
Based on 64 reported grades
Not sure yet: 10
B: 9
A-: 9
C+: 8
Common Tags
Get ready to read (38)
Tough grader (25)
Participation matters (18)
Amazing lectures (12)
Hilarious (11)
Tough Grader (11)
Gives good feedback (9)
Inspirational (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

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Ratings by Course

ENG2200

5.0

(2)

ENGL239

5.0

(1)

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5.0

(1)

ENGL1000

5.0

(2)

CANADIANLIT

5.0

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Difficulty by Course

ENGLI1900

5.0

ENGL2300

5.0

ENGL1000

4.5

ENG2700

4.1

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4.0

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