AWESOME!!!! There is a lot of reading; however, if you read the books you will make and easy A on the book tests. As far as the text book goes you don't need it really just study your notes. He is big on essay questions. His test are very easy though as long as you study and prepare for the essays!!!! And he's sexy!!!

lots of tests, but lots of chances to get an A. discussion helps grade and if you read the books, and show up, if you work for it, you can do very well. take him if you can. keeps you awake and entertained with history

His love of history is evident when he teaches, and it's really inspiring. He does an excellent job going into full detail and makes history more interesting. HE'S AWESOME and I'm taking him again for the summer term.

He makes it so interesting that you can't help but to enjoy his class.Input is important from students & the tests are easy just read the assigned books & study.Everything is laid out for you from the beginning, no surprises.It's hard to fail unless you just don't put forth the effort!He rocks & I'll take his 1302 class in the fall! TURN CELLS OFF!

I had Mr. Barr for 1301 and 1302. I cannot recommend him highly enough! This man has a love of history that is kinda infectious. It's a difficult class, but as long as you prepare, keep up, attend class and study, there is NO reason not to do well. I only wish he taught other history courses. Everyone should have ONE professor like Mr. Barr!!!!

If you don't like reading, don't take the class. Like the other users said, lots of tests, lots of opportunity to make A's. He's loud, but interesting, you won't fall asleep! Attendance is important! But the final and midterm were easy compared to the other tests so u might end up doing better than you thought...

I took Mr. Barr for both History 1 and 2. He is by far the best teacher I have ever had. I now truly appreciate History. He teaches you while helping you experience those times and making you feel what people felt in those days. He called me the Great Scott but in all honesty Mr. Barr is one of the greatest teachers I have ever had.

Mr. Barr is my favorite teacher of all time! His class is not for the slacker, you have to work for your grade but what you learn is completely worth the effort. He knows what he's talking about and is prepared for anything! He's very helpful and nice, though he doesn't like tardiness so don't be late! Cell phones off! A must have teacher!

Mr. Barr is a good teacher. He has a sense of humor, there's never a dull moment in class, and you always listen to what he says because he's so interesting. But this class has ALOT of reading. He also gives essay questions for his mid-term and final exams but as long as you write detailed essays, study, and go to class you'll be fine. I didn't alw

Mr. Barr is by far one of the greatest history teachers I have ever had. He actively involves the class and keeps things interesting. His voice is anything but boring and monotone. i highly recommend him for anyone who is lacking an interest in history. this is the first history class in which I had a legitimate interest.

If you work hard and attend class everyday you should be fine.

Well I am currently enrolled in his class and I'm always excited to go. Mr. Barr hasd a a kind of voice that makes you want to listen to him. He really focuses on Radicalism, which personally Iv enjoy just for the fact it opens your eyes to a different side of History. I will give a final evaluation at the end of the semester.

He makes you read a lot, his lectures most of the time have nothing to do with the tests and quizes. He talks very loud! If you like history and have time to read, take him; otherwise, forget it.

Hard professor who is very loud and annoying. Lots of reading. No study reviews. He does not follow the textbook at all. The tests are very difficult and have nothing to do with his lectures.

Havent taken history in years and was truly regreting it. Not anymore Mr. Barr makes this class super interesting. He has a dry whit that is very amusing. I have learned so much about history. I work the night shift and come to his class and I never get sleepy. He is not easy but keeps it interesting.In all be on time and attend class regularly.

GREAT teacher! If you keep up with the reading, you will do well. Read the chapters BEFORE class and you'll see that his lectures DO follow along with the text. No hidden surprises, everything crystal clear on syllabus. I think he's funny and he kept my interest throughout the class. One of my favorits at the school by far!

I really like Mr. Barr, he teaches all of the different points of view, not just the books. There are alot of reading but they are meant to make you think. As long as you go to class then you will do well. Be warned when he think people aren't listening he will get louder.

I had Mr. Barr for HIST 1302. He's a good teacher who likes to make you think of things in different perspectives. I've learned a lot in his class. The most difficult thing was keeping up with the reading, but if you did the reading you'll do just fine.(Which he usually tried to keep them on the interesting side, didn't always happen).

Mr Barr shows his love of history in his class. He pulls no punches when discussing topics that are controversial or perhaps adult in nature, if he thinks something is BS he'll say it's BS. So don't expect to be talked to like high school students. He's a great teacher who expects his students to live up to his standards, and he is very fair.

I had Barr for both 1301 and 1302. Both classes were great. He he teaches an objective view of history, which I respect. He rewards reading, attendance and having an opinion. So read beforehand and speak up. You can definately get an A in his class but it won't be handed to you.

In my opinion, he thinks you're supposed to already know it all. He's always asking for your opinion, when you DONT have your hand up, just to tell you that you're wrong. Tests cover some stuff he didnt teach. He can be grumpy and way too loud at times. He has mood swings...he's pleasant when he wants to be and sometimes not.

Barr, He's very smart. He can be tough and is a little intimidating throughout most of the semester, but after taking him I feel accomplished and that I have gain a lot from his class. He is a nice teacher and he shows concern, but doesn't take any bull from any one. You must be prepared for his class if you are going to take it.

Barr is possibly the best history professor I've ever had. Barr teaches a more unbiased version of US history, which is a pleasant change. Although it isn't mandatory to attend class, what he says will tend to stick if you listen and he will reward students who meet his personal minimum attendance. The only downer is the seemingly crammed reading.

Prof. Barr is extremely funny, witty, and intelligent. His class is entertaining- he sincerely loves teaching History. We read four novels in one semester- but if you read, the tests are easy! All multiple choice. He offers extra credit assignments which turn out to be interesting lectures. I am taking his 1302 class this upcoming semester.

Dr. Barr is an awesome history professor. Yes, he does assign additional books to read but they only accent what he is teaching in class. He is very knowledgeable of the topics presented. If you pay attention in class, the quizzes are easy. If you read most of the books assigned, the tests are self explanatory.

If you love reading and don't have much of a life outside of school then I would recommend this class, otherwise don't take it. I would especially not recommend it if you are a first time college student.

This class was extremely hard. I couldn't comprehend anything he was talking about. My class went from 30 to 7 people. If you like reading and can kinda teach yourself then go for it, but if not take someone else.

Lots of reading. Fairly tough class but if you come to class read the books and take notes you should do fine.

This class was so HARD!! Lots of reading, and test and quizzes! I dropped the fourth week. I could not grasp the material. The professor is not very nice, just an poor class overall

Do not be afraid of this class. Dr. Barr is an amazing professor who will give you a genuine interest in the material and will give you every opportunity to succeed. The people who complain are the people who are afraid to read outside of class.

Barr wanted me to write based on his opinions, I am not willing to compromise who I am as an individual. The theme for the semester was "What is it to be an American?" Me writing based on another's opinion contradicts that idea. I worked very hard, it was never enough but I will say that he pushed me and made me a stronger student. Not a bad guy.

Don't be late for his class, he'll call you out each and every time. As for the lectures, he really tries to make them interesting.

I took this teacher for the second part of history. He tells really cool stories and knows everything about history it seems like. If you do not study or read the book you will absolutely fail his class. He is witty with his comments and comes off scary if you need help ask him for help he will guide you in the right direction

I will say one thing about this professor. Be prepared to read nonstop. That being said, he's a good professor, but his class workload is very high.

Came to this site prior to finalizing my schedule to make sure I choose the right fit as far as professors. Unfortunately, I took this professor based off the ratings and was highly dissappointed. He assigns tons of reading and suplemental readings as if you have no other classes. Forget having a life, like work or kids. Unrealistic expectations

This was the first semester for this course, called the Emancipators, based on the concurrent lives of Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln. Dr. Barr is a scholar on both of these men, and had many interesting stories to tell about their lives and times. He is a great professor, and runs a great class, with equal respect required for all members. A+

Recommend 'The Emancipators' for any student looking for a really cool academic experience. Awesome class, but if your course workload is already abundant, beware, it is a lot of reading. My only regret is that I didn't get to read everything.

Don't be afraid of taking Prof. Barr. There is lots of reading, but all of it has value. This class is not "easy" but you will have every opportunity to get an a, and you will learn a lot in the process.

I won't say it's "hard" because it's actually not hard. However, I will say this is wayyyyyy too much reading than what is actually necessary. Text book reading is alot but when you add on articles and other books and movies, it begins to get overwhelming! I would like to see less reading and more useful activity. Not everyone is trying to be a DR.

This class has way to much reading!!! I have a full time job and a life outside of this. Find another teacher!

Forget having other classes, a job, or doing anything outside of work for his class. Assigns a ridiculously large amount of reading. You will read the syllabus and think "this must be a joke." No, he actually gave you that much reading. Totally unrealistic expectations. If you see this guy as your prof pick another class IMMEDIATELY! SAVE YOURSELF

This professor assigns an overwhelming amount of reading. I took his class in the Summer & had to buy 5 books (& used them all)! If you have a full time job, or want some sort of a life outside of school and work, then I recommend taking another professor. I work 40+ hours a wk & I'm an A student, but I worked my butt off & got a B+ in his course.

Challenging but purpose is to learn rigorously; be prepared to work hard, learn much. Each of the 5 well laid out modules include:3-4 chapters from textbook and supplemental text, 1 book, a few articles, test over each, discussion board post+2 responses. I can now apply knowledge, with confidence, to political issues with a better understanding.

Oh my god, I have never worked so hard for a "C" in my life! His lectures are fantastic! Loud volume, no one could sleep through. He doesn't give test reviews though, just a LOT of homework. He's a great guy guaranteed to remember your name & face, but someday you wish you were invisible. He likes to challenge the term "Freedom" and LOVES Lincoln!

His class is easy and he goes above and beyond to help you. However, it is very time-consuming. He gives 6 books in addition to the textbook for one semester with an exam for each one, along with 4 "outside lectures". Difficult to keep up with if you're taking 3 other classes and working, but a great and interesting class if you have the time.

Dr. Barr is a great professor, everything is clear in the syllabus what is expected & he is always emailing to see if anyone has any questions. There is a lot of reading total of 8 books, many chapter quizzes, book exams & 5 Discussion post. He expects you to write at least one page for each discussion. I got a C because I didn't try my best.

In his online history classes he literally emails once every day, so there is no chance of being confused as to what he requires in the course. He assigns a ton of reading. The length of time it is spread out gives a decent chance of getting it done even if you do work and attend other classes. However it's impossible if you wait until the week of.

Really nice professor even online. Sent emails every day. I read more in his one summer class than I did in the spring with 15 hours. Not an easy class, for sure, but glad I took it in the end. Really interesting assigned readings. CATCH: For summer sessions he WILL drop or fail you no matter the grade you have if you miss an assignment. Take him.

Dr. Barr breaks down topics in a methodical fashion mainly focused on an over arching topic for the semester. For my course it was how Slavery and Freedom interacted and grew alongside each other from pre-colonial America until 1877.

He is a very dedicated professor, super interesting lectures. class is not easy at all! lots of reading and studying to do. But if you want to learn and responsible, take him. 2 books exam + Midterm & Final + 4 outside lecture. His final grade replaces midterm if you miss class 3 times or less.

A LOT OF WORK!!5 books in addition to the textbook to read and take tests on. He is very clear on his grading. He's very nice! He sends emails everyday and answers questions without being annoyed. Tons of chances for extra credit. But BE PREPARED TO READ the text book and other books. You have to know how to balance in order to get a good grade

I'm actually in this class at the moment, I have a job so I decided to take this class online. The amount of homework for the week is immense. He gives you so many articles to read, and powerpoints each lasting 20 minutes. TONS OF READING IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT. Good luck.

Hard professor with a lot of homework

I took this as an online mini 5 week this summer. This class was hard- with the amount of reading due in such a short time. However, if this was a regular semester, I don't see it being that difficult. The reading wouldn't be as intense, and it's interesting. Clear outline for course. Make sure you use the one book in discussion posts! ----

I took this class online for a five week course and he is a good professor. There is much work required, so if your schedule does not fit to have a few hours devoted daily, you may want to find a course with a lighter work load. He really is there for you throughout the course and that's what really makes taking it with him work the work!

Dr Barr was a very very tough grader and gave an exorbitant amount of work that was very difficult. Many of the tests that were based on the books he assigned were impossible even if you had read the whole book. I took the class online and it was very difficult to pass.

The work load was high. He expected quite a but out of you. His tests were extremely difficult, but for discussion boards, he was pretty reasonable. This class takes a lot of your time and does not leave much time for laziness.

Dr. Barr is a very tough grader specially with tests. He makes you read tons and you have to buy other supplementary books. Overall his class is hard.

John Barr is a great teacher! Yes he will make you read but the books he picks for his classes are very interesting and readable. Funny guy and will joke around with you. Gives really good lectures. I would recommend any student to take his classes.

This class is ALOT of work but he is SUCH a good teacher. You have to be ready to read and do work and his tests are very hard, but with the discussion posts and homework he is very generous. I 100% recommend him, and he really cares about his students.

Ok so, If you love history, or you are only taking one class at a time, this would be good for you. I did learn a lot, but it was hard. I constantly felt like I was behind. He wants you to read like 5 books cover to cover. Says you can do it because he could. His discussion posts are more like short essays and tests are really long & hard. BEWARE!!

I took his class this summer and wow that was intense. Everyone seems to be on point with his work. I'm a single mother of 4 and I have a full time job and I managed to make a C. It's a TON of reading and a bunch of papers. I honestly enjoyed the class but wish I would have takin the class in a semester and not the summer. Good luck.

Hands down best Professor I have had Thoughtful well organized teacher who continuosly provided thoughtful feedback

Dr. Barr is tough but fair. If you actually take a class wanting to learn something rather than just wanting to shoot through, he's the professor for you. If you're looking for that easy A however, keep on walking, because he'll make you work your butt off for it. Seriously though, he will challenge you and prepare you for what you'll face ahead

Very great teacher! Really liked him and he makes it really easy to communicate with him. Was a face to face but turned into online after hurricane, he made the transition really easy. Be ready to read all the books he requires because you wont pass other wise but I feel he is an easier grader and if you are struggling he will work with you.

Professor Barr is great! You WILL have to work for a good grade. He does not bump or round up grades, but he is very responsive (via email or face to face) and gives several opportunities for extra credit. There is quite a bit of reading, but the class was great and I learned so much!

Professor Barr is great! There is a lot of content and the books are needed. You will have to put in the work to pass the class. He is very quick at responding to emails. Extremely helpful. I could tell he wanted me to pass as much as I wanted myself to. Gives extra credit opportunities. Exams were 4 essay questions. I would take him again!

Best professor I have had so far. He presents a challenge, but a good one. Yes, you get a lot of homework, but he gives great feedback, and you can tell he wants to be there. He is inspirational, hilarious, caring, and respectful. There is only one test, and that's the final, but make sure to read because without it you will most definitely fail.

Take this class and teacher if you really care about learning. The work that he has you do makes you think critically: you'll be doing a lot of written responses and not very many multiple choice questions. You'll have a textbook and A LOT of supplemental material (including two other books) to read as you go. He's fair and there to help, too.

Dr. Barr is great. There is a lot of reading involved and a majority of the tests are essay based, but he is very accessible to meet outside of class. If you want an easy A or don't like writing, find another professor. But, if you want to be prepared for future courses (not just History, any course) Dr. Barr is the man.

He made the course easy to understand! Very helpful and caring teacher

Dr. Barr's methodology is to give his students a broad perspective of the subject. He utilizes a variety of sources, sites, films, and authors to give the class a well-rounded overview of American History, not just the required textbooks. The textbook was very informative, and had online quiz and lecture resources to help with the message.

One of the best professors I have ever had. Is willing to help you no matter what. His advice and suggestion are super beneficial when it came to writing papers or even just things in general. Dr. Barr makes the classroom environment very relaxing and makes people comfortable to say what they think. It was a fun class and I really enjoyed it a lot.

Loved his humanities class!

You are definitely going to be reading for this class so prepare accordingly however the discussions during class are an incredibly fun experience. I would honestly advise taking the class for the discussions alone.

Requires a lot of reading and material to review but will defiantly learn a lot from this course. Very helpful when asked, and willing to assist with any questions.

Professor Barr requires a copious amount of reading, but don't let this deter you! The reading is very fulfilling and packed with incredible information and perspective. He is a great professor willing to assist you with anything in the class and go above and beyond for his students. Wonderful experience, great class, great professor.

Just keep up with your reading assignments and you will be alright.

Dr. Barr is a great professor. Just show up to class and participate and do your work and you'll be all good.

Dr. Barr is the best History teacher! Take his class, and you will learn a lot. Overall, this class is an easy A class!! His exams are very manageable because he gives all the materials you need. Take notes, show up to class, read as you go, and you will pass the class with no doubt.

Professor Barr is an excellent person. I have a lot of respect for him. Great Professor.

He is an AMAZING lecturer. However, if youre looking for an easy A, this is not the class for you. You learn a LOT and as long as you do the work for each week, you should be fine. Hes also very helpful when you ask him for it. He helped me understand history and a new way!!

I don't need to read to remember things, and all i did was show up to class listened to him talk, and went home and took the tests. Pretty easy if you're good a listening. Maybe read one page out of the textbook and got a B

Excellent teacher! You will not fail if you follow the criteria, show up, and take notes! Tests are always open notes making them of VITAL IMPORTANCE. Tests are also open book so be sure you buy one. Dr. Barr is a fantastic teacher who makes his lectures captivating and extremely useful. He cares about every single student he teaches and it shows!

Professor Barr teaches in a Lecture style and doesn't require you to take notes, but will become irritated towards the end of the year. For me, this teaching style worked wonders, but for some, this isn't their cup of tea. For extra credit, we had 60 website links all open on the first day, but the reflective essay's required could keep you busy.

Hilarious professor, great at answering all questions. He really cares about history and it shows. I've never liked history classes but always look forward to his class!

Dr. Barr is a very considerate and reliable professor. I had his online class, and he laid out the entire semester when the class started, so I knew what the year would look like. We had 2 book exams, a midterm, a final, and 3 discussion forums, and if you stick to his requirements, you will make a good grade. He replies to emails the same day too.

Theres 2 textbooks, 1 is just documents from history and I didnt use the other one at all. 2 extra readings assigned which have tests. A midterm and a final. Each test requires an essay. You can retake the homework until you make a 100. I relied heavily on his lectures and made an A! Extra credit is offered. Great professor! Definitely take him!

Dr. Barr is a great teacher, he can talk about a subject and makes you feel engaged about it. He knows about his subject, he can quote historic quotes by remembering them, he wrote his own book about Lincoln and he is also friend with many historians. I would definitely take his class again if I could. also you may have to read a lot.

Amazing history teacher. He makes history not so boring but he does make you read 2 books and gives an exam on each on top of your mid term and final. These can really boost your grade or fail you. Depends on how much you read. I only read half of each book and scimmed the rest and was able to get B's on all exams.

I DO NOT RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE. He requires an excessive amount quizzes and homework every week and the tests are very hard and unclear. Reading the entire textbook wouldn't help. He is also condescending and rude when you ask him questions. READ THIS AND DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS. Insane amount of workload. Very tough grader and acts superior.

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!! He requires you to take numerous amount of quizzes every week and on each test he includes essays. Even reading the textbook won't help.