very enthusiastic and smart. nice speaking voice.

This class is alot of work, there's homeworks every week, quizes every other week and tons of papers, but Oren's is a great professor who's really understanding and helpful as far as grades go. I highly reccomend him for this class.

Go to lecture and take tons of notes if you want to do well in his class. He did an outline on each subject so it was easy to follow his lectures. Couldn't help but laugh at some of his sarcastic remarks.

Professor Orens is wonderful! He teaches really well, is very interesting, well organized, and fair. He is a really genuine, funny, respectful man. If you do "exactly what he tells you to do, you will do well." I highly recommend him. He is the

He doesnt just talk about dates and events, but the ideas and development of society. He is a very easy teacher and his quizes are 10 T/F questions. The midterm is a take home. You have to watch BORING taped lectures at home

Really nice, interesting man, really loves history, enthustatic about his lecture topics, fair grades, and hes real hype.But no joke this class requires you to do a lot of work.

Orens is one goofy, tall lanky cat. He is really entertaining. Even more so, he gives great lectures and is ethusasitc about history. There are 3 tests, no papers, no homework, and a fair grading system. Recommended

enthusiastic about subject, very clear exam outlines

Very excited and interesting to listen to.

Thoroughly engaging lecturer! The assignments were reasonable, and I like take home exams!

hes so adorable and hes really interesting. i highly reccoment him

Prof Orens is fair teacher. His lectures are actually interesting b/c he loves what he is doing and you can tell. He makes corny jokes that are stupid but make you laugh b/c they are so stupid...but definately recommend him if youy want a faily simple class where you will learn a lot.

Excellent professor!He loves what he teaches and it makes his lectures interesting. Great quiz reviews and Take Home midterm and final. Wonderful class

Dr. Orens is a man passionate about what he is teaching. Though Western Civ can be sort of boring he manages to keep your attention. Fairly good teacher.

Best professor I've had yet. His class is more about society and life than history- VERY interesting and you learn a lot. Gives quizes every other week, but he gives you reviews which make them very easy. Midterm and Final are both take home essays- fairly easy. This was a Wonderful class.

great teacher, keeps you interested and he's very passionate

class is very boring compared to my previous history class experience. gives 10 question quizzes every two weeks off of a study guide. takes attendance. is a hard grader on the midterm and final essay assignments. would not take his class again unless i had to.

Professor Orens gave me an entire new perspective on History, nothing like anyone has ever taught me. I felt like I was in a Philosophy class learning about its origins through History. His quizzes arn't hard because he gives you the questions a week in advance.

Very passionate about the subject matter, good lecturer. Drops big hints (and study guides) for midterm and final. Made me wish I actually liked history - definitely wouldn't mind having him again.

He really knows what hes talking about,he's obviously really into history. The videos are boring as HELL!!!!but if u b.s you will pass the class! Hes boring most of the time tho and his jokes are corny...

LOL Dramatatic teacher, really loves history. HE GAVE US THE ESSAY QUESTIONS TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE EXAM IN THE FALL 2004 SEMESTER!!!

Prof. Orens is an EXCELLENT professor. He is very passionate about his work and delivers true performance in his gracefully orchestrated lectures. Though all he does is lecture, you wont lose interest. However, beware the boring videos. Just do what you can with those and be sure to do study guide!

he really know what he is talking about. really good class. surely take him if possible.

Wonderful teacher and really get into the lectures. One of the best history professors I have ever had. The exams aren't too hard as long as you attend class and know the things on the review sheet plus he always gives the sheet very early. If you gotta take history, he's the best bet!

Take home exams and multiple choice quizzes. His lectures can be boring at times, but Dr. Orens knows his stuff and is very enthusiastic about it.

European Cultural History--very interesting course. He is incredibly passionate about the topic. The exams consisted of two take-home essays (3 pages each) each and there was also a required 6-10 page book review on the book of your choice. He's a very sweet man-- he brought scones for everyone on the last day of class.

Orens is THE BEST. Funny guy.

Great guy, amazing professor! However, to do exceptionally well in his class one needs to be present on most days, especially when he gives out the reviews for exams. I missed a couple of days and felt like I was way behind, but he is always willing to offer his help and guidance to make sure that his students do well. Overall, an amazing class.

Great teacher! his lectures are boring but he is always willing to help and if you do the work you can get an A. his exams are take home and you can redo one of them. he also offers extra credit. you should take him

one of the best classes I've ever taken. One of the most amazing teachers I've ever had. A powerful, dramatic speaker, and a deep thinker. Unafraid of showing history as a coherent story and facing his students with truth. A caring, accepting, open-minded individual who respects his students to the utmost.

Orens is really cool, he is very passionate about history and if you go to class you don't even have to read the textbook - seriously. His lectures are interesting and the extra books we have to read are good too. Definately take his class. Tests are hard if you dont study/go to class.

Great teacher, very enthusiastic and made class really interesting. definatly recommend taking his class

A powerful speaker and great sense of humor. Lecture base class, quiz once another week and 2 take home essays during the semester. Gives extra credit as well. A Great guy and a Great History Teacher!

The best teacher I've ever had at Mason! He is very caring, and also very passionate about what he does! He'll do

THIS CLASS IS SO EASY. He doesn't even make you watch the videos for the class (they're ex. cred). He's very passionate about history and has a great lecture. He wants you to learn more than just details but rather creating a broad sense of the world. Orens is for everybody, slackers and those interested in history.

Great lecturer. He makes a boring course very interesting and intellectually challenging. It was easy to get an A exactly following his instructions. he tells you which video lectures will be helpful. there is no pressure of getting bad grade because he will give you opportunities to redeem yourself through extra credits and essays.take this course

He is one of the few teachers which are worth fighting for. Very interesting, very easy, not because the course is easy, but because all the key points are stressed, and clear istructions are given.

He is a great professor he knows all the material very well. This class was easy, but you had to work hard on the papers to get an A but he supplements them with extra credit videotape papers.

Good professor, go to class, take good notes and do the papers in advance to edit them

you will learn a lot; he is an excellent teacher!

Great guy!!! Very passionate about History. Very intellectual and makes the class as interesting as possible. Very clear on his instructions not really demanding and is very understanding. Definately take him for History!!!!

He made history interesting for me for the first time on my life. I would definitely take more classes with him. Offers many chances for extra credit.

Beats all the other lame-o teachers for W.Civ --- He knows his stuff, and is very helpful; explains things very clearly, AND doesn't make you watch those dumb videos!

excellent professor... nuff said

Orens is the man. History is my least favorite subject, but he managed to make me a fan of it now. That's how much of an impact he had on me. More importantly, he teaches in such a captivating way that you're actually interested in what he has to say. Again, he cuts the fluff and gets to the meat of the material. Highly recommended and a great guy.

Orens is the one to take for hist 100. Grade based on weekly quizes (straight from his lectures) and a midterm and final essay. You'll learn a lot from this guy. plus he gives plenty of opportunities for extra credit

Great professor. His class was actually fun.

one of the coolest professors ive ever had and hes so interesting that its almost impossible to zone out or day dream. his quizes are a little difficult but i rarely read the textbook and i got an A. essays are super ez as long as you got the main points its an A

Orens makes history fun, as he tells it like a story, instead of just spewing facts. Quizzes are easy as long as you pay attention & at least skim the readings. The take-home midterm & final essays are more then just repeating facts; they force you to think & form opinions. Don't buy the DVD set until after the 1st .

This man is an amazing teacher. He keeps pretty much everyone awake and absorbed for the entire class. He write all main points on board--great for notes!! He gives study sheets for quizzes and papers. Study and do assignments, and you'll do great. He did not require my class to watch videos--I didn't and did fine. Offers extra credit.

This class is easier than middle school!! 5 quizzes, take home midterm/final, 2 extra credit opportunities...VERY organized and structured class, ALWAYS lets you out 10 minutes early, in general an AWESOME GUY!! ONE OF THE FEW PROFESSORS THAT CAN MAKE A CLASS INTERESTING! VERY UNDERSTANDING...IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO DO WELL! TAKE HIM!!!!!!!!!!

gives good lectures, tells them in an interesting way, makes history seem more like a drama then boring facts which is good, quizes are easy with study guides, should go to class and takes notes so you dont have to read the book but class isn't boring

Intriguing class, but very hard class. Yes, the quizzes are easy, but they are only worth 30% of final grade. The rest is the midterm and final essays, which are graded very stringently. This class turns history into life and makes it interesting, but it's very hard to get an A.

Amazing teacher. Makes everything seem extremely important and relevant. Probably the best Hist 100 teacher you could have. However, I think he's a bit biased in his grading, especially if you write about things he didn't teach or disagree with the way he teached.

The important thing is to attend his classes because almost 95% of the infor is from his lectures. You don't need the book, and you only need the tapes if you want extra credit (offeredTHREE times)! The class consists of quizzes with questions already given to you every other week, a midterm and final take home. BEST CLASS EVER! Take it easy A!

Dr. Orens is extremely passionate about what he teaches. This serves to make his lectures entertaining, as well as toughening his grading on essays. Be prepared to write decent, lucid, comparisons on the major themes of history. Dr. Orens also provides three extra credit opportunities, which can serve to raise your grade by a significant percentage

Great teacher! I absolutely love his class. He's so passionate about what he's teaching that he really seems to bring history to life. Two papers that count for 70% of your grade is a bit much, but it's worth it to have an interesting class. DEFINITELY recommended.

Orens is a great TEACHING professor, but when it comes to grading, he is very hard. The teachers assistant I had in this class was horrible and graded the essays as if it was not a 100 level class, but a 400 level. He should be fired! The quizzes almost count for nothing and 70% of your final grade is based on your midterm essay and final essay.

Very very helpful with everything, had many easy quizzes straight from notes, midterm and finals were 3 pages essays i completed in about an hour each and did great on, he does expect you to be clear on your thoughts in these essays though, make sure and don't generalize, very good professor, also gave 4 easy extra credit assignments

Professor Orens is simply the best teacher I have had at Mason in three years. Definitely take a class from him if you have the opportunity. He is very unique, funny, and delightfully quirky in his mannerisms, and in the way he presents the material. He is always helpful and clear. The way he conducts himself puts everyone at ease.

BRING YOUR LAPTOP TO CLASS AND WRITE DOWN EVERY WORD HE SAYS. It is a TON of information! He is the most enthusiastic, knowledgable professors I've ever had, and like everyone says, his lectures are like story-telling sessions. Quizzes are a piece of cake but he grades those midterm essays HARD, so take them seriously!

Professor Orens is the most enthusiastic, intelligent professors I have ever come across at Mason! You can tell he loves everything he teaches and his lectures are NEVER boring! I hate history and this man made me love western civ! Quizzes are a piece of cake if you take notes in class, you won't even need to look in the book!

He is so intelligent and shines a lot of insight on the material. He genuinely tries to make his lectures interesting by telling you a story in a way, and usually leaves you wanting more. Take his class!

He is very enthusiastic in teaching! Interesting lectures.

his lectures are brilliant and captivating. There are quizzes which aren't bad if you take detailed notes and use the book as help. The papers aren't fun at all but when are they ever? He gives plenty of extra credit opportunities. Whether you love history or hate it, you can't help but be intrigued by what this man has to say; he's wonderful!

Very enthusiastic, funny, helpful, understanding, great teacher. Highly recommended.

Great Teacher you dont have to try at all because his tests are 100% from his study guides, exact same questions just reworded

AWESOME professor! I personally HATED history before going to his class! he just makes it sooo interesting by connecting every topic with one another in a very story like way! you just CANT get bored! his quizes are straight from the study questions, just reworded, and exmas are papers you do at home along with extra credit chances! MUST TAKE HIM!

He is very enthusiastic about what he teaches which makes it interesting if you actually listen and attend class. if you do those 2 things and answer all the questions that he sends you prior to each quiz, its really, extremley hard to fail. overall, hes an awesome professor and its an easy class if you do what i said.

wow this class was awesome it was an easy A and i didn't do any of the extra credit he assigned i did one though the video one i swear even though i'm an IT major but i like his class :) take him

Orens is god.

Take Orens! He is great and knows his stuff! His lectures are always interesting and as long as you are in class, and taking notes, you'll do well.

Quite possibly the most dynamic professor at GMU. His lectures are very well-organized and you get study guides that tell you exactly what will be on the quizzes. Highly recommend.

Orens is knows how to keep his audience interested! Attendance is mandatory; missing class makes it hard to catch up on the material he covers for the quizzes. If you go to class you'll have everything you need for the quizzes, I used to textbook as a backup. Papers aren't too difficult but grades heavily rely on them.

Awesome guy! Gives study guides that are very close to the quizzes he gives every other week. Come to class, take good notes and the rest is a piece of cake!

He absolutely LOVES history (not a bad thing), I hated history and never learned a thing from any other teacher, not only did he understand that history wasn't for everyone but he made it really easy to get the material with e-mails updating us on upcoming quizzes and exactly whats going to be on them... about 3pgs of notes a day but worth it.

Great teacher. I absolutely HATE history, but professor Orens made it very interesting. He goes out of his way to make sure every student understands the material. Attendance is mandatory, but that's it. No tests. A quiz or so every other week and 2 papers. I HIGHLY recommend his class.

What an amazing professor. He makes everything so interesting, even HISTORY. I hated history prior to his class. He's very intelligent, and is somewhat sarcastic. He gives out candy and gives lots of opportunities for Extra Credit. Tests are essays, and quizzes are directly from notes. Easy class. Great professor!!!

This was a low-maintenance class for me. There's a quiz every 2 weeks, but the questions are sent out prior by the TA. Professor Orens is a very enthusiastic and entertaining lecturer! I have always had a lack of interest for history, but Prof. Orens actually made it rather interesting. There are only 2 papers and opportunities for extra credit.

This is the easiest history prof in the world. Dont need to buy the book just take notes in class. There is a quiz (15 easy multiple choice questions) every other week. The midterm and final is a paper which is also super easy. There is also some extra credit if you need it. (I didnt cause I got like a 98% in the class). Take him if you want an A!!

What a great class! I took Orens my first semester as a freshman and it was very easy to start off the year. He does take attendance everyday but all you really do is take notes and he is not boring at all, he is a very intersting person and funny. You really don't use your book much, so just go to class

I've been at Mason for 4 years now and this guy is by far one of the better teachers I have come across. There is a quiz every two weeks which any idiot can pass. He checks attendance but his lectures are great so there is no need to skip in the first place. The two papers are slightly challenging. I strongly advise you take Orens.

Professor Orens brought life to a boring subject and you will come away learning something. he gives a quiz every two weeks but gives you the questions beforehand and the two papers where graded fairly easily by the TA

Aweosme and easy class. Just go and take notes he keeps his lectures interesting because he is very into it. There are quizzes like every two weeks but he sends you the questions before the test, just look up the answers and its an A. The midterm and final are papers that you can send toh im to review in advance. Definitely take this class!

Professor is great and class is super easy as long as you pay attention & take good notes!I am not a good notetake, but prof is so clear and good communicator that in the end my notebook was a history book of its own!I was also afraid of citation for the papers as I have never been good at them, but he is not too strict about the citations.

Take him, great guy, goofy, helpful

Loved his class!! Prof.Orens is a genius! The quize questions are the same as the review questions that he emails you.So easy!! There are only a midterm and a Final paper which are about 3 pages each and the text book is very helpful to write them..That`s all you need to do for this class..Definitely TAKE HIM

Make sure u take notes in class cuz that is where you will find the answers to the quiz review questions... he makes history very interesting...all u do for this class: short and easy quizzes every other week, one midterm and one final essay..Done! BEST Prof. EVERRR

Orens is great teacher. Emails you the quiz questions before the quiz. One midterm and final paper, about 3 pages for each paper. Take notes because you need them for the quizzes and papers. The book also helps a lot with the papers. Gives extra credit opportunities with the midterm and final. Best History teacher. Sign up for him quick!

Great for Hist. 100! Short quizzes every two weeks, 1 midterm and 1 final (both papers), & 2 extra credit papers. Provides you lots of detail notes & relatively easy to follow. Fairly nice guy, but he does get mad when you operate your cell phone n class. He's also willing to cancel class a couple times if we're ahead or he's sick!!! Take him!

The definition of what a 100 level class -should- be. If you have no interest in history and want an easy class that will broaden your knowledge and make you some easy gen ed credits, TAKE THIS GUY. You're shooting yourself in the foot with the rest of the department. Orens, you are the man.

He is a great Professor! If you attend class and take notes you will do great in this class. Short quizzes every 2 weeks, midterm paper and final paper. Also gives chance at 2 extra credit papers. He'll get you interested in history and time will fly by!

He is a great teacher! I had no interest in history prior to this class, his lectures force me to pay attention and are quite interesting. The time flies by! There are quizzes about every 2 weeks and a midterm paper and final paper. If you attend class and take notes you will do very well in this class. Textbook was rarely used.

Modern Britain. Took this class during the summer, excellent way to get some upper level credits out of the way in a very painless manner. This guy is great and knows his British history. Great lecturer, fair grader, as long as you do the readings all the papers are very simple. HIST majors take his course now! He's kinda funny in a quirky way too!

OMG! I cannot say enough good about this man. If more of the professors at Mason taught with half as much passion and knowledge as him, we'd all be much happier and smarter. He makes you want to learn history, even if you don't like it. It's not too easy, but if you try enough you won't have a hard time. Don't skip many classes or use your phone.

He really is a great teacher. He lectures throughout the whole class but if you listen and take good notes the quizzes and papers are easy. There are 6 quizzes and then 2 papers (midterm & final), he also gives you extra credit that you can do which helps. He is enthusiastic and really knows what he is talking about!

Dr. Orens is a wonderful professor and he gives the BEST lectures! His TA, Misha is amazing-- very helpful. When you hear his lectures, you will forget that your in a clasroom. He is that good! If you go to class and take notes, the quizzes are easy.There are two papers(a midterm and final). Misha is very helpful and will review them for you.

Hist 100: Fall 2009: Professor Orens is a great professor. He makes history interesting and his wacky tone of voice and behavior is totally appropriate and sometimes funny. You have to attend classes because he takes attendance Quizzes are announced and pretty much come from notes. he's great. not easy, but fun and you will learn! I got an A+!

Great teacher, highly recommend. May seem wacky at first but he makes the information like a story, very interesting. Sends you quiz questions several days before the quiz, no reason to fail them. 2 papers to write which require the textbook. He and his TA's eager to help you fix your papers. Attendance mandatory. Highly recommend him!

im pretty sure that all the posts on here are posted by the TA's themselves. this class is totally overrated. they make it sound like its going to be the easiest class in the world- when in fact you get downgraded for the dumbest things in the world. all throughout lectures the TA's are uptight and watch the students like a hawk.

Absolutely amazing! The greatest teacher you may possibly ever have!! He teaches his classes by creating stories. Rarely did I find a lecture not interesting. I dislike history but coming to class was not a struggle. You do have to take notes and study for the quizzes but you get review questions. Midterm & final papers are very tough-be prepared!

He is probably the most knowledgeable professor I've had so far, so his lectures are always very interesting, and almost have a narrative flow to them, making them entertaining. The material is easy, as are the quizzes, midterm, and final. I don't see how you can't get an A, unless you skip, or he catches you texting, which is his big pet peeve!

This class is relatively easy, it kind of bugs me that I got a B+. You are given review questions before each quiz but sometimes the wording can be a little tricky when it comes to the quiz. It's important to go to each class & take notes, or else you will suffer during the quizzes. There is a midterm & final paper, & 3 extra credits. Good class.

Fantastic professor. If you have to take History, take his class. Lectures are very interesting/fast paced and inspire an interest in history as well as other related subjects.

He is really good. Knows his stuff, wants you to know it, very passionate about history. History is not boring in this class! Not too difficult to get an A: take good notes, write everything he says and study for quizzes from that. Rarely need the book. take home mid and final which aren't too hard but be careful with grammar and english stuff

I hated history, but Professor Orens is THE best history teacher I have ever had! He makes lecture like a story and grabs your attention. Grade is based on a midterm, final, and quiz average with several opportunities for extra credit. TAKE HIS CLASS! I would not recommend anyone else BUT Professor Orens!

absolutely love him! i always hated history but he made the class extremely interesting. theres a few super easy quizzes, no exams, and two papers. as long as you attend class, you should have no problem passing. and you don't want to miss his lectures because they are usually amazing!

I was never bored by his lectures, and thought he was a very good professor. Two essays, a quiz every two weeks, and attendance are all that's required. It's not a hard class. I would definitely recommend him to others.

Class was great never boring... He uses his lectures for questions on quizzes so you should be in class so not to miss anything that will be on the quizzez Midterms is based of the book as well as the final

Very passionate about history. Makes the material come alive, so lecture is not too boring. Doesn't use powerpoints, so attend class and take great notes. Attendance is taken. Gives quizzes every 2 weeks. Study notes and review questions provided. Midterm & final are papers, so don't slack and really put in some effort. I didn't use the textbook.

It's a 100 level class. He takes you by the hand. LOVE his lectures. This is the way history should be taught. One of my favorite gen ed. courses. Take him. Take notes, go to class, get reviews on papers and you'll be fine!

Not a bad professor, very dramatic with his lectures but they get boring after a while. Easy class but the quizzes are tricky at times. This isnt a discussion course so be prepared to listen. Nice guy though and he knows his stuff.

He talks and talks and talks. But not a hard class! You just have to take notes on everything he says. You will use your notes to study for the quizzes every other week and for the midterm and final essays. He is really nice but can be boring at times. He really knows history. TAKE HIM!

Best history teacher EVER!! he explains beautifully, like its a story and his voice just grabs your attention. Most important thing is to take notes about everything he is saying and you'll get an A. no need for textbook. Notes and primary readings make up the quizzes and the papers. LOTS OF EXTRA CREDIT WORK

Great professor, attendance is mandatory if you want to pass the quizes but you won't regret going to his class. I would recommend this professor to anyone

Prof. Orens an AWESOME TEACHER!!!! He's very engaging and easy to listen to. No tests but he has about 7 quizzes that he gives you study guides for and two very easy papers to write for the midterm and final. If you miss a class you do miss important info for the quizzes so lectures are important. I would recommend him to everyone!! TAKE HIM!!

I hate history and took this as my gen ed and Mr. Orens made me love history!! Every class is like a play because he is so passionate about history and teaching. Attendance sheet passed around every class and a quiz every 2 weeks, but the quiz questions are exactly the same as the ones he gives you on the study guide. DOES NOT TOLERATE CHEATING

Take his class! Don't need a textbook, quizzes/papers directly from his notes. If you pay attention and write down the stuff he writes on the board, you will get an A. It's an easy class, but some students who didn't take notes actually got C's. He's an awesome lecturer, and you will get a lot out of his class! Very fair & informative! Take him!

There were 6-7 MC quizzes (easy) and 2 papers (mid-term and final). Papers are 60% and quizzes 40% of final grade. He and his TAs grade papers with a fine-tooth comb. Don't spend more than 3 days on it though. He does give extra credit papers too. No cheating/plagiarizing, or you'll be sorry. I got an A in this class.

very interest teacher. Makes the class fun and interesting. The quizzes and papers are not hard. just for the love of God go to class he is very strict about attendance and it can cost u your good grade!!!

Very passionate in his lectures. Don't bother buying book but take notes in his class because all his quizzes are based off the lectures completely. His lectures are great and I would recommend him to anyone.

I loved orens.His lectures were very interesting.But there are things to remember in order to succeed in this course:1. Take thorough notes2. never miss class3. never bother to buy a textbook and study the notes before the quizzes. BTW he grades the midterm very strictly.but if you do the xtra credit you will be fineee

He is a really nice and funny guy! I was entertained at least. Be good at taking notes or really read the book - one or the other and you'll do fine. Study guide makes it pretty easy too. You gotta go to class to sign the sheet. TAKE HIM!

Excellent excellent excellent professor. He is entertaining and passionate. He can joke around. He does grade the papers (only two) relatively harshly, but there is so much extra credit it doesn't really matter. Quizzes are from the notes (Which you must take). If you can take him, TAKE HIM. too easy.

I've always hated history classes, but after being in Prof. Orens' class, I'm willing to give it another chance. He's very entertaining and absolutely loves what he does. At the end of one of his lectures the other day, all 150 students even clapped for him. Awesome professor, makes history interesting. Never fell asleep,that's saying a lot!!!

All you have to do is pay attention, take notes, and read your primary sources. DO NOT BUY THE BOOK. His class has a philosophical undertone and if you already wrestle with things, he will emphasize that and be resourceful. I would take him again if he taught anything else. 6 quizzes. 2 papers. 3 extra credit opportunities. A+

Professor Orens is awesome! He loves what he does and he made Western Civ. extremely interesting. I'd highly recommend his class. Take lots of notes, but don't buy the book! He covers all of the important facts.

Orens and his TAs grade papers harshly, BUT he offers many options for extra credit and as long as you follow his guidelines, you'll do well. He doesn't use powerpoints, instead he stands and lectures. If you write down what he is saying, its word for word off the quiz. I expect an A- in this class. Best part: no tests.

TAKE ORENS. He's fantastic. Western Civ is the most boring subject I can imagine, but I loved this class- he made it so interesting. He tells you the quiz questions ahead of time and lets you submit a draft before your paper is due, plus extra credit. Easy (and fun) A. Best gened yet (and I'm a science major).

Mr. Orens is AWESOME. He tells his lectures in a very different way, more like a story than a lecture. Midterm was not terribly difficult; it's supposed to make you think, that's the point. You have to study for the quizzes and you will get a good grade. DO NOT GET THE BOOK. He makes his expectations clear and grades hard to give the best grade.

Orens is a really easy teacher. The class is straight forward. You go, he lectures, you take notes, and then you get a quiz every other week based on lecture. His quizzes are easy if you go to class, plus he emails them to you beforehand. Just make sure you go to class and take notes. The textbook is not required at all.

Great orator. However, at the last class of the semester, I was troubled by his blatant BS comment. You told us how valuable a minor or even a major in History would be in the real world. That's absurd! You will not make a worthwhile career with a BA in History. He claimed employers would be impressed. BS! I can think of 25 more impressive majors!

Great professor! He completely changed my view on history. His classes are more like storytelling than lectures. You should do well on quizzes if you take good notes in class. Would recommend to anyone!

Awesome professor. You get the grade you work for. You must come to class and actively take notes. If you do that, you will get an A.

Professor Orens is truly the most influential professor I have had. His love of history makes him fun to listen to. His discussions allow you to really think about the material. Good note taking skills is essential. Take this class!!

Professor Orens is an amazing professor. He is very easy to talk to and truly made history interesting. I really recommend talking to him after class. He is truly insightful, and he wants you to succeed.

One of the best! He made taking a history class worth it. You absolutely need to go to class! There are no powerpoints, just a lecture with key words on the board. Quizzes are based off the lectures. If you don't understand something he will go back to restate/clarify. Also, though the papers are difficult, he reads them over to give you max points

Study guides were given for quizzes. Attendance is not mandatory but it is extra credit. There are a lot of opportunities for extra credit. However, I will say that if you are not a strong or decent writer you will not do well on his essays. Prof. Orens and his TA's are hard graders. They read through the essay's multiple times.

Honestly one of the best and most interesting teachers I've ever had, would definitely recommend his class, easy A if you go to class

Professor Orens is the best thing that has ever happened to the teaching of history. He loves what he is teaching, he makes you love what he is teaching, and if you take careful notes you will do well. Take him!

Awesome professor! He kept everything interesting during class so there wasn't one dull moment. Highly recommended.

Best professor in GMU!!

By far one of my favorite professors at Mason. He loves History and teaching. Wants his students to succeed. Make sure you go to class to take notes, and midterm & final essays are bit tricky. However, he gives you the questions for every quiz in advance.

He does his lectures like telling a story. It's pretty interesting if you're actually listening to him. He has quizzes throughout the semester and they're pretty easy because he gives you the questions prior, via email. His teacher assistants and him are tough graders on the paper though, so try to send them your draft so you can get feedback!!

Orens was a great professor. Lectures were amazing and kept you interested. Grade was made up of two essays (midterm and final) , easy quizzes (study guides given) and there were three extra credit opportunities. His TA's and him grade very hard but after the first essay, you'll be good to go for the second. Must go to class. Would take again!

Orens was great. I hate history, but he did try to make the lectures as interesting as possible. 6 21 question quizzes with 6 21 question study guides that come with. I disagree with everyone saying he's a tough grader, I got a 97 on both papers and I'm not strong in history. Just email it to his TA before it's due for feedback. MUST come to class

This was my favorite class I have taken at GMU. Orens was absolutely amazing. His lectures were interesting and made the history fun and relevant to learn. He was a fair graded and the expectations were made clear from the beginning. I would recommend this class to everyone!

Study guides before each quiz make it pretty easy. Two 3-page papers (ignore everything you know about proper formatting. He wants you to write them in a weird way). Very old fashioned (NO ELECTRONICS OR PUNISHED!), but his lectures are as if it was story time. Textbook is optional (he even tells you that), but it helps during the two papers.

Absolute best history class I've ever taken and possibly the best class I've taken so far at GMU even after 3 years. He is so knowledgeable and makes learning so interesting. His lectures are vital, so GO TO CLASS. Highly recommend!!

His class is only 1hr 15min put it feels like a 3hr course. There are no powerpoint slides just useless key words. There are 6 quizzes which he gives you the questions before hand and two papers. The questions on the papers are really hard to answer but he grades it multiple times in order to boost your grade. Overall the class was boring.

Professor Orens is one of the best teachers I have ever had, and by far the best history teacher I have ever had.. The class goes by so fast, I never find myself looking at the clock. The quizzes are pretty easy because he gives you a study guide. The two papers are more difficult but definitely doable if you just follow the instructions.

I loved Oren's class. six 21 question quizzes that come with six 21 question study guides. He's an extremely fair grader. His lectures are AMAZING and its like story time. I would love to take another class by orens. if you're taking western civ, TAKE THIS CLASS

HE IS THE MAN!!! I've always been SO bad at history, but I LOVED his class.

History is my worst subject, but Professor Orens makes it totally bearable. He frames historical events and periods like stories, rather than a collection of dates and facts. Super interesting and super funny. Few things though: no electronics AT ALL in class or you will be penalized; go to every lecture and take notes or you will -bomb- the papers

I took Western Civ with Professor Orens. He was such an interesting speaker. There were quizzes, but he gives you a study guide before the quiz that's essentially the quiz. Fill out the study guide and you're golden. The papers are also relatively easy. Overall, the class is easy if you don't skip and do the study guides and you're fine.

Dr Orens is pretty chill. Nice guy. Kinda religious but thats ok. Won't let you use your phone or sleep in class which is HELLA LAME! Assigns papers, expects you to read the book, pay attention in class, very ridiculous. This is college, not high school. I'm not going to pay attention in class, bro! But his lectures are funny and he is nice.

Attendance is essential to passing. Great choice if you are okay with a B. Personally, I loved his lectures. I absolutely hate history but he made coming to class bearable. Quizzes every week but there are study guides that help for the most part. Two 3-page papers that were exceptionally difficult, he and the TAs graded them harshly.

Lectures are told like a interesting story and he puts up keywords on the board. There are two three page essays you write and no tests. Essays are graded by the TA and professor. You get a 21 question quiz about every two weeks. The TA sends free response study guides to you. There are chances for extra credit on the essays and quizzes.

6 quizzes that he gives you the questions for in the study guide, a midterm and final paper, and doesnt allow phones or laptops out and wants your undivided attention, so take all notes. He definitely makes history interesting and speaks really well; his side jokes dont hurt either. There is no hw or tests, but you have to work for that paper

Wonderful. Out of all the lecture classes I've had, Orens is the only one where I actually was interested and leared something. Makes history like a story with a heavy philosophical bent. 3 or 4 quizzes and one paper (plus one opportunity for extra credit). WRITE DOWN EVERYTHING AND YOU'LL BE FINE. Didn't use textbook once, despite his insistence.

I went in hating history, I came out adoring history. Orens has the ability to transport you to the time period that he is talking about. The fact that he is so passionate about history, makes the class so much more enjoyable. There are six quizzes, and he gives a study guide. Study those! Go to class! He takes attendance and doesn't post notes.

The most amazingly articulate professor I have come across so far! He's was an amazing storyteller. Scantron quizzes throughout the course and I believe 2 majors essays. 1 midterm 1 final. Gives plenty of opportunities for extra credit. Wonderful professor and very approachable for questions after class.

BEST PROFESSOR AT MASON!!!! Take this class!

AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING!!! MUST TAKE HIS CLASS. You won't even WANT to skip.. and if you do, don't plan on passing.

Orens is one of the best professors I have had. He has clear cut criteria, just read the information he gives you and you will understand. Do not skim his instructions for papers. He gives extra credit with papers. Midterm and the Final are papers. Do not skip class, he does not post things on blackboard. Very good teacher, will pass easily.

This class consists of 6 quiz and 2 major essays, which the two essays worth 60 percent of your grade. Give extra credit for the two papers. My suggestion is if you are having a hard time reading the primary source that he gave you and not good at writing essays, do not take this class.

If I had to take history again, I would take it with him. His lectures are easy to follow and whatever he says in class will be on the quizzes. There are 6 quizzes and each one has a study guide with the exact same questions as the quiz itself. There are two papers that are worth 60% and are graded hard. Gives extra credit to add to final grade.

Admittedly, I was disappointed by Professor Orens. I understand why most professors don't like disruptions, but Professor Orens took this too far. If someone next to you even so much as quietly asked a class-related question, the professor would make a big deal out of it. However, lectures were fascinating and expectations were reasonable.

Gives 6 quizzes which all answers are on quizlet, gives a midterm and final paper which are graded harshly, takes attendance, but he is an amazing professor, amazing lecturer, amazing human being. I have never had a professor that teaches with such passion. He makes you want to learn more about history and life as a whole. I highly recommend him!!!

TAKE IT TAKE IT TAKE IT. It changed my opinion about history and made me ask big philosophical questions!!! He is an amazing lecturer, but doesn't really pay attention to each student. 6 quizzes, two papers that you can take home. Don't skip any class, cause all the quizzes come from the lectures.

My favorite class thus far! I never liked history before but he made it so interesting and applied a lot of material on what is going on in the real world. It is easy to pass if you go to class and take good notes. There are 2 papers instead of exams: the mid-term and final and 6 quizzes. The study guides are helpful. I highly recommend Dr. Orens!

6 quizzes a 2 page midterm and 2 page final. Orens tells history as if it were a story which may be interesting to some but a bit boring to me. take notes dont buy the textbook and study the study guides he gives before quizzes.

bad side to his class is no electronics and hand written notes but he's a great lecturer. take notes bc they'll help you understand content instead of cramming before quiz. no tests but multiple quizzes. if you do the study guide you'll do fine but with taking notes you'll do better. 2 papers straight forward from the primary sources given.

I took Professor Orens in the 2015 spring semester, and actually enjoyed the class quite a lot. All of his notes are taken by hand, and he does not allow any electronic devices. He is an amazing lecturer that will tell stories that will complement what is taught. Midterm/Final Take home papers. Quizzes study guides. Also gave extra credit.

Professor Orens is hands down the best professor at GMU. If you want to take a real college class take him! HE IS JUST THE BEST.

Professor Orens gives the best history lecture ever! His lecture is quite interesting and strictly prohibits the usage of phone. We have three quiz and two papers, as well as two extra credit chances. Highly recommend!

best professor I have ever had. considered minoring in history because I enjoyed his class so much. He lectures the whole time but it is super interesting. He is a great storyteller. He makes the class as easy as possible grade-wise. He really just wants you to gain knowledge and wisdom over just testing (quizzes were easy) he takes attendance

He is a great professor and has very interesting lectures. Grades are made up of 4-5 quizzes and a midterm and final paper. He also gives extra credit for coming to class.

Professor Orens is a very good orator. Makes long lectures seem interesting. Essays instead of tests and a quiz every couple weeks. Show up, take notes, read the sources given to you, and you'll do fine. History lectures not my thing but i enjoyed his class.

I had great expectations about this class because of the reviews and Orens EXCEEDED BEYOND MY EXPECTATIONS. His lectures are so inspirational and I can guarantee that you'll learn so much from his class. He is a true story teller. Textbook is useful when writing your midterm/final essay. Quizzes are similar to study guide.

Dr. Orens is an amazing professor in the History department. He teaches history as a story, and his lectures are intriguing. His class consists of quizzes and two papers. As long as you do the study guides and give yourself time to throughly write the papers then this class should be a breeze. He offers extra credit too, so utilize that as well.

Great and nice prof! Took this class in summer, so its best if u go to every class and take VERY good notes. Not much txtbk use but I used it as reference when necessary. Quizzes based on his notes,study guide but this class heavily relies on primary sources for quizzes and 2 exams. No cellphones allowed. But take this stressless class for easy A!

Very good professor and passionate about the material. If you attend class and study the study guide the quizzes are easy. The midterm and final are essays. He is an extremely hard grader. If you are not a very good writer/good at analyzing information I would not recommend taking his class. If you are good at those things, this is an easy B+ or A.

He is hilarious. If you come to class, you will pass. He is not a hard grader. Also, you don't need the textbook but it is recommended.

I haven't been interested much in history before this class, but he has made me consider minoring in history. Before each quiz (I had to take four total), they would email a study guide that would almost match the quiz. Doing the study guide would make the quizzes much easier. Great professor, very interesting, and funny at times.

One of the best teachers I have had at Mason. He is wicked funny and his lectures are extremely interesting. He turned a subject I hated into one of my favorite classes. He is a brilliant and enthusiastic lecturer. 4 quizzes total and no midterm and final test instead wicked easy papers. Offers a ton of extra credit also. Would absolutely suggest!

AMAZING class. He really keeps you interested and he tells history as a story that you want to keep listening to. It makes you want to go to class. Go to class because study guides are based on his lectures. 2 papers + E.C. opportunities. Textbook barely used. Take good notes + grab a front row seat!

Professor Orens makes you want to learn. He is so interested in the subject that he teaches. He also connects history to present day in very eye-opening and inspirational ways. I would love to have him as a professor again... but my one warning is DO NOT use any technology in his class unless you want to be docked points. Highly recommend!!!!

Amazing lectures. I've never been a big fan of history but I loved the way he taught the class, even added a little humor here and there. Highly recommend taking this class

Really good professor, lectures are not that bad to go to and thats coming from someone who barely goes to class. quizzes are really really easy because he gives out study guides that will help out a lot. inspirational, funny, but won't allow any electronics in his class and will call you out if he sees you doing so

Professor Orens is truly passionate about history. Beware - he calls out his students in class if they look tired/are sleeping, if they use any sort of technology, or if they look like they aren't paying attention. He's very strict but it's to help you pay attention. As long as you attend every class, there is no need to read the textbook.

Professor Orens was amazing. His lectures were very well spoken and thought-provoking . He told history in such an intriguing manner. If you follow instructions and put forth your best work you will do well on the papers. Highly recommend.

Orens is a wonderful orator, and he is able to connect the distant past with events from today, so I never felt like I was wasting my time. He calls out students if they use any tech, look like they are sleeping, or just not paying attention. Rule of thumb: write too much for the papers, not too little. Overall, pretty good class.

Best history professor I've ever had. His classes are lecture-based, so no discussions, very few quizzes and the midterm/final were essays. You can tell he is very interested in what he teaches, and his lectures feel like he is telling you an amazing story; the way he describes events pulls you right in. Never been this interested in history before

I really enjoyed this class. The quizzes are easy if you show up, take notes, and complete the study guide he provides. The textbook is definitely helpful for the midterm and final papers. As an avid reader and writer myself, I enjoyed how he constructed his lectures like a narrative. Often I would leave his class feeling inspired.

This was my first history teacher, and I come from a line of historians. Professor Orens' lectures focus heavily of the religious and philosophical aspects of European society, which is great. He gives you an idea of how thought has progressed through history onward till today. Amazing class.

Professor Orens is without a doubt the best professor at Mason. His lectures are amazing and keeps you interested in the topic. His class is just as easy, consisting of 2 essays, 4 quizzes (which are extremely easy), and multiple extra credit opportunities. No final exam. He is also caring and goes out of his way to help you pass.

He was very nice and a good orator, phenomenal lectures. There is a good deal of studying outside of class, but it is worth it on the exams, which are a little difficult. The papers saved my grade honestly. He also offers a generous amount of extra credit. He has a strict policy on technology, but it's for your own sake. Good about returning emails

Good professor that knows his stuff. Purely lecture and uses an overhead to show notes, so HAVE to go to every class. Grades made up of 4 quizzes (basically copies of the study guides he gives) and 2 papers (pick from 2 options for each paper, each have 3 questions on 3 different people). Grading can be kind of tough, but offers extra credit.

He was by far my favorite teacher at Mason. I came prepared to hate History but it ended up being the best subject. Though attending class is not compulsory, I recommend showing up and taking notes because the tests are based on his lectures and primary sources. His lectures taught me so much about life and were very deep. His TA's are very helpful

Good professor, his lectures are entertaining and he is very enthusiastic about what he is teaching. You aren't allowed computers nor phones in class, which he is very serious about. But besides that, it's a good class to take! He gives you study guides for the quizzes, and they're very helpful. Do the work and you'll be fine!

He is really nice and funny. Attendance isn't mandatory but go because that is where you will get your notes. He doesn't use blackboard so everything is turn in class. you only have 2 papers but you have 2 weeks to do them, and they are easy. Test are multiple choice 35 questions. give study guides. NO ELECTRONICS IN CLASS! Easy class. Take him.

The guy's very passionate about history. It's just western civilization so of course I don't really need to go as its stuff we already learned, but I still do, because the guy obviously knows what he's talking about and he loves what he does.

Best professor I've had at Mason so far. He is really nice and passionate about history. Doesn't take attendance, but go because that's where you'll get your notes. Strict about use of electronics, but it keeps you engaged. Gives 4 quizzes, but he gives study guides with all the questions on it. Doesn't give mid-term or final tests, only papers.

Orens is pretty good, but for his midterm and final he gives papers instead of exams so if youre not into writing, then I wouldnt recommend him cuz hes really strict when grading them

He is one of my absolute favorite professors. He keeps everyone engaged during his lectures and story telling. His quizzes are ver easy if you do the review guide. He doesn't tolerate phones, laptops, or talking in his class but I feel that this is helpful for keeping me focused. I would love to take another class with him and recommend his class.

Prof. Orens is a nice man and he lectures very well. However, if you're not interested in history, it may be a boring course for you. There are four quizzes that he sends out review guides for and there are two major papers--the midterm and the final. The class overall is not hard but make sure to go to class.

Dr. Orens is a good professor. Hes very engaging and truly cares about the subject. However, the essays are insane. I got an A on all of my quizzes but a 77% on my essay. I was deducted 23% only because of formatting. Its ridiculous. The essays arent difficult. Theyre just really picky on how they want it to look like.

You can tell loves the subject and teaching. The downsides are that he doesn't use blackboard so you either ask him in office hours what your grade is, or calculate it yourself. He is strict on grading but he tells you what he wants. there are 5 quizzes which he basically tells you the questions before, and 2 essays that have extra credit (DO IT)

The best teacher one can have, very understanding, very lenient, and very respected. I never liked history but he made me love it. His tests are very nicely graded. The class is an easy A if you right down every word that leaves his mouth. All the tests given will have sample questions from which they will be tested.

Great guy, very nice and understanding. His lectures can be really dry and you have to take notes off of his talking points. Quizzes are easy as long as you study for them and papers are graded VERY HARSHLY. When I went to talk with his TA about my paper, she ripped me apart and accused me of not using the textbook. Kinda felt insulted by that.

He lectures the whole class, but he talks in an engaging way. His history class was the first history class I've ever enjoyed. He has a few quizzes, but if you study the review sheet, and understand it, you should be fine. The midterm/final are essays and straight forward so just stick to the rules he gives (very specific rules) or you lose marks.

Professor Orens is caring and wants his students to do well. The 4 quizzes were easy. The midterm/final papers were difficult but still doable. There is a lot of extra credit offered at the end (really worth raising your grade)! If you're not strong in writing nor enjoy history, don't take this class. This isn't a class you can slack off in.

Prof. Orens' lectures and storytelling skills made this class interesting - you can tell he is genuinely passionate about history. He provides review guides for all the quizzes which is very helpful. For the midterm and final, you are required to write a paper (it's graded hard, but if you put effort in and follow his guidelines, you'll pass) 10/10

Orens is a traditional and competent professor. Each class is a spoken lecture assisted by a topical outline projected to the board. His lectures are clear and insightful; he keeps the content as interesting as possible. He does not allow technology in class. There are several multiple choice quizzes and two "papers" (collections of short answers).

Orens is one of the best professors I've had so far. He's very knowledgable and loves what he's talking about. There are 2 essays for this class, replacing the midterm and final exams. There are also quizzes every 3-4 weeks. He doesn't use blackboard so all notes are taken from lectures and all papers and reminders are sent via gmu email

He's very specific and precise, good grader, class is easy if you know history. Professor Orens rocks!

Great history professor with inspiring lectures. Took this class for an easy elective and was completely satisfied. Orens' had some great lectures with easy quizzes that were based off of the study guides. Midterm and Final paper were a bit more difficult but do-able. Definitely recommend

He comes off as strong at the beginning of the semester, with harsh electronic use policies, I genuinely enjoyed learning about history for the first timeever. He teaches it like a story so it isn't just dates and name memorization. Graded based on attendance, in class quizzes, and a midterm and final paper. He sends out study guides for quizzes.

Professor Orens in an amazing professor. The grade is comprised of 4 quizzes (50% total) and a midterm and final essay (25% each). The quizzes come with a study guide which is basically the exam. The essays are pretty easy if you understand the topic, follow his guidelines strictly, and send in a rough draft. There's tons of extra credit too.

Totally recommend professor Orens. He offers review questions for the quizzes , and they really help. For the two papers of the semester, make you sure you follow the guidelines to the letter. His lectures are boring but you have to attend so you can get the notes necessary for the quizzes.

He is the best professor I have had so far. Very clear on what is going on and gives you the quiz review sheet with the questions for the quiz basically already on there

Professor Orens is very traditional- no cell phones, talking, or sleeping in class, and doesn't use blackboard so you have to write down as he's talking. He had interesting stories and lectures weren't too bad. Study guides are very similar to the tests. My only problem is that his TA's grade midterm and final papers and are very harsh graders.

Definitely a good choice for history, the class structure is very organized, he sticks to the syllabus. Go to the lectures and take notes, they are helpful with the 2 papers assigned.

Professor Orens is very clear on no cell phones or points off. He doesn't use blackboard so you have to write as he's talking. His lectures are good & interesting. He has 4 quizzes & a mid and final paper that make up your grade. The quizzes are easy & give you the questions beforehand STUDY THEM! If you attend class u don't need to read the book.

I honestly loved Prof. Orens. Unfortunately, our class became online due to Corona, but went smoothly. He does not use Blackboard, so your only contact is through email, but his lectures are very thorough. He does this interesting thing for lectures, where he writes a list of topics to talk about. He'll shown one at a time and then lecture about it

He doesn't use BB, so attendance is crucial, but his lectures were interesting. Grade consists of 4-5 quizzes, midterm paper, and a final paper. The quizzes are VERY similar to the study guides the GTAs email you. The papers are around 2-3 pages max, answering a few questions from a prompt. Fair warning, they grade the papers rather harshly.

To be honest, I never really liked history. But Dr. Orens' passion for this field is probably one of the greatest things about him. However, because this was an online class, it can get quite boring. Lectures are long, but may be interesting to some. Quizzes and exams aren't too bad as well.

Took this course fully async. Make sure you REMEMBER that your final grade will be weighted; 50% from quizzes and the other 50% will be from essays. Quizzes aren't hard. Essays, however, required a little effort as all the graders are harsh. Make sure you do everything to revise your essay.

great professor, just a lot of material to remember for quizzes but its not bad since he does give a little bit of a study guide, there's only like 6 quizzes in total so not much but they're not too bad as long as you study. 4 multiple choice and 2 short answer. there is a chance of extra credit at the end of the year too.

As far as listening to a history lecture, he's the most engaging I've ever heard! Spoke with great enthusiasm that made an hour go by quite easily. Everything was connected well, with cliffhangers for fun. There were quizzes, though, so write down everything he says. Helpful study guides that directly reflected quiz content, though! Take him!

Honestly, his class is pretty laid-back and easy. As long as you read/take notes on the synopsis he posts on BB, and hella review the study guide questions he gives you through email, the quizzes should be a breeze (though his short answer questions depend on the TA) his lectures are cool too but I would say you dont have to attend them to do well

His quizzes are literally straight from the study guide and his class is the most straightforward and easy one ever. He's very interesting to listen too as well, no reason to not have an A in his class unless you're lazy and/or skip every lecture. Orens is great!

Professor Orens is great. He really tries to give you a great picture during the lecture. There are not many things that determine your grade, so I would go to the lecture. Overall he is really good and I would definitely take him again.

I like Professor Orens! Professional expert on history and makes this class the least boring it can possibly be. Personally for me history goes in one ear out the other (hard for me to memorize) but I liked listening to him regardless. Do NOT get lazy and not study for a quiz, there's only a few grades but they're simple if you study! 10/10!!

Wonderful prof! His lectures are more like a series of interesting stories. He was understanding and I was able to make-up a couple quizzes despite short notice. There's multi-choice & written quizzes throughout the semester with extra credit at the end. You'll do well if you do the readings and review the topics from the study guides.

Prof. Orens is an amazing speaker and his lectures are very compelling. He doesn't just read off the slideshow, he builds on it and elaborates. He doesn't allow phones or computers (unless a device is exclusively used for notetaking, like a Kindle Scribe), but it's a small price to pay for his class. Definitely recommend.

Prof. Orens was so good; I'd be willing to take more history classes just for him. All of his lectures felt like a story and his humor every now and then made it extremely enjoyable. They can feel long at times but it's very rare. The grade is only based on a few quizzes so study for those, read the synopses, and complete the study, you'll be fine.

Honestly the best lecturer I have had so far. He obviously really cares about the class and your learning, and can answer almost any random question you ask. Beware, no technology is allowed during the lecture, and it is strictly enforced. But honestly I would take his class again if I could. Great teacher.

LITERALLY SO GOATED. his lectures feel like you are watching a documentary, so incredibly interesting and engaging. Just do the small amount of reading required and youll be set. I want to be like this guy when Im older.

Loved this professor. I could listen to him lecture all day.

Good Professor Passed the class but the tas were not nice and not accommodating for students with disabilities

Absolutely amazing professor. He makes history very easy and entertaining somehow. I go to his lectures more because of how enthralling they are rather than because I want a good grade. You will do yourself a massive favor by taking him.

He provides a lot of sources to read and expects you to understand and remember certain topics and events. Overall, the class felt like being told a story and for the most part interesting. He didn't assign any homework, so you have to make the most out of your quizzes and exams.

Dr. Orens was amazing! His lectures were so interesting! I never used to enjoy history but after taking this course I enjoy history now! His grades are based on 6 quizzes. Keep up with the synapses and primary sources. He is strict about phones and laptops. He is a very caring professor he supports and encourages students to do well!

Professor Orens is incredibly passionate about History. I struggled with History as a subject throughout middle school and high school because I found it boring. Professor Orens held my attention. Exams are given in free response and multiple choice. As long as you do the readings and understand the relationship between events, you're good to go!

Professor Orens' lectures are engaging and informative. While exams and quizzes are the main grading, staying on top of readings and understanding key relationships is key. Unstuckstudy AI was a great study tool alongside the free course resources.

Probably one of the best professors I've had during my time in University. As someone who struggles to focus in class, I did not have any difficulties listening to his lectures. I felt like I was listening to a story with the way he lectured. I almost wish the class doesn't end because I truly enjoy his class. He's also very funny 👍

just like all the other reviews, professor Orens made history SO interesting. He has a whole library in his mind and an amazing skill to story tell. How do you make history entertaining??? he found a way! definitely will remember him when I look back to classes I miss. TAKE HIM!!

If I could I wish all my professors were like Dr Orens. He is truly an amazing person, overall kind and funny, but what makes him the best of the best, are his lectures, he leaves you wondering and on cliff hangers. ADHD Friendly

I never liked history in high school but Dr. Orens made every topic covered in this course extremely interesting! Grades are based on 6 quizzes which are very easy if you come to class. Attendance isn't mandatory but you're honestly missing out if you skip his classes.

Amazing and caring professor. He really cares about his students and his passion to teach. Have never had a professor like him he's outstanding. Class is only graded by 5 quizzes. No final or midterm. No phones allowed either if you are seen with one he takes points of your final letter grade. Overall great and funny guy and super kind hearted.

Very nice prof. He's old school so no phones/laptops in class. Only has quizzes in class (no midterm/final) and gives you a study guide for it. Posts primary sources to help you study and the textbook is helpful too. Has one extra credit opportunity at the end of the semester. A very passionate guy who has great lectures!

No assignments for the semester, only tests that need studying. Pay attention to prof's words for writing notes, not his slides. Tech is not allowed. Luckily, though, the prof is amazing. He's passionate about teaching, a great public speaker, and funny. HW is just reading short docs that aren't graded, but its subject matter can appear on tests.

The class itself isn't that bad, but if you slack off, you're gonna have a hard time. I think if you attend every lecture and pay attention, you'll be fine on the quizzes. However, there are NO electronics allowed, which can be kind of annoying. But overall isn't a bad class.

Prof Orens is one of the best professors at mason. If you've struggled with understanding history before, he is the prof for you. Grades are solely determined by 6 quizzes and an extra credit opportunity. Make sure to show up to lectures and take lots of notes if you want to pass. He is inspirational, hilarious, and overall kindhearted. take him!

Awesome lecturer, would take again. 4 multiple choice and 2 identification quizzes, no homework. He doesn't take attendance, but the quizzes are solely based on his lectures. Office hours with his TAs were extremely helpful, especially if you skipped class or fell asleep (it happens). Strict no phone policy. Class was easy and straightforward.

Super easy class! He makes the content easy to understand and the quizzes are all based on his lectures, so get ready to write down lots of notes. He does mention a textbook, but you don't need it if you pay attention. He gives out study guides for all his quizzes and they are *almost* identical. Would take this class again!

Professor Orens is a wise and charismatic instructor with a clear passion for history. His voice is soothing and his lectures follow an intuitive structure. My only critique is of his class is that computers were not allowed in his class (which conflicted with my note taking habits, especially paired with lack of online material).