2.7

Jose Calavia

Physics - Miami Dade College (all)

2.7
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
49%
Would Retake
143
Reviews
2.7
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
2.7
Helpful
2.6
Clarity

49%

Would Retake

143

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

36

4

16

3

18

2

25

1

48

What Students Say

Can't understand a thing he says

PHY2054 - 1.0 rating

Final is mandatory and 50% of your grade

PHY2048L - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

63%

Textbook Required

60%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 44 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
A+ (13)
B (5)
Grade Distribution
A(29)B(5)C(6)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 53 reported grades
A: 16
A+: 13
B: 5
C: 4
Common Tags
Graded by few things (15)
Caring (10)
Clear grading criteria (8)
Hilarious (8)
Inspirational (8)
Skip class? You won't pass. (7)
EXTRA CREDIT (7)
Tough grader (7)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.33 avg change
Jul
Aug
Oct
Dec
Mar
Aug
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PHY3320

5.0

(1)

PHY2053PHY2054

5.0

(5)

PHYSICS

5.0

(2)

PHY2053PHY2053L

3.8

(6)

PHY2043

3.8

(4)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

INTROPHYSICS

5.0

MARKETING

5.0

PHY1025

3.9

PHY2053

3.8

PHY2053LAB

3.4

Reviews (143)
3.0
3.0
PHY2054
Jun 7, 2004

Not easy but if you do your homework you will pass. The test problems are usually EXACTLY like the homework. Generous extra credit also.

2.0
4.0
PHY2053
Dec 15, 2004

This guy is MEAN, there's no other way to describe him. Don't take him !! run away, run far away !!!!! go to another campus !!his teaching is noot worth it !! it is the Adele Berger of physics !

4.0
5.0
PHY2053
Sep 15, 2004

He SUCKS. Doesn't give partial credit, and takes just 10 looooooong multiple choice questions on his tests. Very frustrated guy. Plus, he doesn't talk, he murmurs ! sometimes you cannot make out what he says.

4.0
1.0
PHY1025
Dec 17, 2004

He's a little hard to hear, but if you sit up front it's not too bad. His tests are relatively easy, compared to the problem in class. He generally gives us the easier problems. He gives LOTS of extra credit...test are multiple choice, even the final exam!

1.0
4.0
PHY
Dec 18, 2004

He's horrible, angry guy. very intolerant, I don't know why the hell he is teaching

1.0
5.0
INTROPHYSICS
Dec 18, 2004

This class is already hard, but he makes it harder!! If everyone fails in his class though, he gives a really good curve! I passed only 1 test out of 4 and I got a C(we all complained, 1 student even went to his boss). I did the ex. credit, which was EASY!

4.0
2.0
PSY2053
Jan 3, 2005

Not hard to pass his class. Do the homework and the test will be easy. All test are multiple choice and extra credit is available.

1.0
5.0
MARKETING
Jun 3, 2005

Sucks the big one! :(

5.0
1.0
PHY2053
Jul 24, 2005

Physics isn't very easy to begin with. If you go to class, do the homework, study for the tests a litte you will make an A. His tests are easy...like his examples. Very clear on what to study for. Not to easy to hear but hey...sit close!

2.0
4.0
PHY2053
Jul 25, 2005

This class is a lot of memorizing formulas and applying them.I suggest that when you do the homework write the formulas down for every chapter so when you study for the test you understand the formulas and how to apply them. He is hard to hear and murmurs.His tests are a mixture of webct and the homework not always exactly the same. Read the book.

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Jul 26, 2005

i can't hear him, study webct and the homework write out and memorize the formulas

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Jul 31, 2005

the guy sucks and is hard to understand take the class in another campus if posible.(he teaches at the Kendall campus)

2.0
5.0
PHY1025
Oct 26, 2005

He speaks in a low tone of voice, very difficult to hear him. He knows his material well. Tests go according to lecture. MUST study!!! no slackers will pass.

1.0
4.0
PHY1025
Dec 26, 2005

No good.

5.0
3.0
PHY2053
Mar 31, 2006

He does talk pretty low but he is a good teacher. Treat him and his class with respect and you'll do fine. Always do the h/w and ask him questions if you don't understand it. He will help you if you really do care. The course itself is not too easy but it's not that bad. Be nice to him and he'll be nice to you.

1.0
4.0
PHY1025
Apr 25, 2006

As one student said " this guy talks like he has a sock down his throat " just hit the nail in the head. You wont understand this guy , he talks very unclear and goes over the sections like he is in a hurry , he just care more about taking coffe than to teaching the class , professors like this are the ones that should be working as janitors

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Aug 5, 2006

NOT GOOD...

4.0
3.0
PHY2048L
Jul 28, 2006

ok i took this guy for my phy lab, he was ok. a little hard 2 understand , but honestly he's not taht bad. the lab was pretty good.

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Oct 31, 2006

His class was not at all bad, yes, he was hard to understand but all his tests came from HW and WebCT questions!! He gave really easy extra credit, easy class to get an A or high B.

2.0
5.0
PHY1025
Dec 14, 2006

HORRIBLE. I went to EVERY class. I'm good at math (calc3) and STILL he made the class VERY difficult. 4 10-question tests (multiple choice, so all wrong or all right), and a 15 question final. I got 2 A's on the 1st tests and STILL needed to do the 30 pts extra credit to pass the class with a minimal C! EC is writing papers on animal rights...oook

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Jan 8, 2007

Horrible professor. Guy is totally unhelpful and will slam the phone on you if he does not like what you are telling him. Worst professor I have had in my college career. DO NOT TAKE THIS COMPLETE IDIOT.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Apr 28, 2007

He is the worst professor I have ever had, I had a 3.89 GPA before this class, now a 3.65. I only had 2 B's before this class and he failed me with a D. His tests are as difficult as he can make them and he can come at you with problems from three different places: the ones he does in class, online and in the book, all of them are different. Idiot.

4.0
2.0
PHY2053
Jul 17, 2007

He is not horrible at all. i don't know why everyone put such bad comments on Calavia. HIs class is fairly easy to pass.. All you have to do is to memorize how to do all the problems online. Then you can pass the quizzes and the test. The come from exactly from the webct. He does kinda mumble a little when he talks. Ask him for help!! hes helpful.

5.0
1.0
PHY2048
Jul 25, 2007

PHYSICS W/ CALC. 1 LAB.He's the best!! sooooo easy. just turn in your reports, attend class and bring all your lab reports to the final. easy A. he's very understanding and when i didn't do the reports right he told me how to fix it and still gave me a 10..love him. he's great..p.s. he likes cats... he really likes cats.. a lot.

5.0
3.0
PHY2053
Sep 17, 2007

He's a great teacher. He gives great examples in class, has example problems on webct, and gives hw from the book to work on. If you don't understand or miss a class, he'll be happy to help you during office hours. You CANNOT slack! He gives plenty of resources but you must work at it and try to understand the concepts if you want an A

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Oct 17, 2007

I took Physics (PHY2053) with him and he SUCKED! When he introduces new materials he picks the hardest problems to explain and doesn't do a very good job on doing so because he has a speech problem! I did all the homework plus more problems from the book and also his handout problems and still got horrible results!

1.0
5.0
PHY2048
Jan 2, 2008

horrible doesn't teach.. talks a little above a whisper.. seat close or else ull never hear him.. try not to take unless u like learning a subject yourself

4.0
3.0
PHY2053
Jan 8, 2008

Nice Proff, yes he looses contorl sometimes, yes he screams at the board sometimes, yes he does'nt speak very well, BUT u can still get an A easily. Do the HW n U will get A in exam. Do the Class problems, you will get an A in the QUIZ. He also gives extra credit. If u need help, go 2 his office and he will explain till you get it. EASY A!!!!!EASY!

3.0
3.0
PHY2054
May 3, 2008

YES, A LOT OF PPL COMPLAIN ABOUT HIM.. HE IS EASY! ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS THE H-W, DO THE PROBLEMS HE ASSIGNS AND THATS IT!! LOOK AT WEBCT, THATS A MUST.. HIS EXAM AND QUIZ COMES FROM THERE...GIVES EXTRA CREDIT.. I TOOK PHY2053 AND 2054 WITH HIM, GOT AN A IN BOTH...I SWEAR, I ONLY STUDIED THE DAY OF THE EXAM.. HOMEWOK AND WEBCT, GURANTEED AN A-A-A-A

4.0
2.0
PHY2053
Jul 1, 2008

nice professor. you could tell he loves physics. speaks sort of on the low side but is still audible. if you go to class and do the assigned homework problems before the tests & quizzes and you'll be fine. gives extra credit and you could tell he wants everyone to do well in the class. take him.

1.0
5.0
PHY2054
Dec 12, 2008

took him for 2053L and 2054L for one reason, there was no one else teaching it. If you want to do and figure everything out yourself then he's your guy. Useless

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Mar 21, 2009

I could not understand a word he said! He mumbles. Yes he loves Physics, He make you know that he knows Physics but cannot teach it.Cannot listen and take notes at the same time. You might as well take this course online because you are on your own with this guy. What a waste of time!!! Good luck.

4.0
4.0
PHY2043
Apr 21, 2009

lISTEN JUST DO THE HOMEWORK PROBLEMS AND YOU WILL DO FINE. YES HE SAYS THE MOST RANDOM THINGS BUT HE IS COOL!! And do the extra credit...it helps and the end!!!

2.0
5.0
PHY1025
Apr 26, 2009

It was an absolutely horrible experience for me. I suppose a background in trigonometry would have helped, but he moves way too fast and, because there's so few questions on his tests, it's easy to fail.

5.0
1.0
PHY3320
May 3, 2009

Good teaching, dedicated

2.0
3.0
PHY2053
May 5, 2009

study the notes from class and the things he e-mails you and you'll get a good grade. he is hard to understand, grumpy and there are only 10 multiple choice questions on the tests so be careful.

2.0
5.0
PHY1025
Aug 6, 2009

This is a difficult class designed for physics, engineering, or math majors - but it's do-able for non-majors if you study REALLY hard. He mumbles and talks low in class so you need to pay attention and take EXCELLENT notes. This is not an easy course. 4 Exams (10 Questions each) and a comprehensive final. No curve but you do have EC assignments.

3.0
4.0
PHY2053
Aug 13, 2009

The tests are only 10 questions so its easy to do badly, but the quizzes are easy. The 2nd test is the hardest but he drops it and replaces it with the highest grade! I had an F on a test and made an A in the class. Hes really a nice guy at heart. He just speaks Spanglish lol

5.0
1.0
PHY2053
Aug 25, 2009

This is the best professor ever I took him last spring and I got A. This class is not easy but if you study all that he is giving in the class you will be find. OHHH and never miss a class!!!!! good luck

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Dec 19, 2009

He is probably the worst profesor I have ever had. The test are not reflective of your understanding in the class.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Jan 15, 2010

the professor talks fast, mumbles, speaks low, and expects you to understand what he is writing on the board. you pretty much have to teach yourself to be able to pass this class.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Mar 5, 2010

This professor is a self centered egotistical selfabsorbed useless waste of humanity. 70% of his two classes dropped after second test. He claims he hates teaching first day of class. Does not teach and tests are extremely difficult not based on theory nor on homework that he gives what a waste of time and money.

2.0
5.0
PHY2053
Mar 23, 2010

Always late to class. Does not follow the books equation and does his own thing making it more confusing. Brings his opinions on other subjects into the problems. Mumbles when he talks. Test are 10 questions each with 6 different choices. Only 30 extra credit of the 600 points to pass.

2.0
4.0
PHY2054
Apr 12, 2010

WELL, THIS IS A TYPICAL EXAMPLE OF GETTING PAID FOR DOING NOTHING. HE IS THE WORST YOU CAN EVER HAVE AS A TEACHING INDIVIDUAL.

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Apr 30, 2010

Tests ARE from the class examples, emailed handouts, and textbook problems he does in class same problems-different numbers. However, NO equation sheets are allowed on tests, so tests becomes more about memorization than problem solving. Tests are 10-12 questions multiple choice, no partial credit.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
May 2, 2010

DO NOT TAKE THE CLASS WITH THIS PROFESSOR...YOU WILL NOT DO WELL. I have never failed a class in my life. This is the first class I have ever failed and I studied for each exam and went to each class. I registered in this class because this was the only class that had available seats. This was a huge mistake!

4.0
3.0
PHY2053
May 2, 2010

I liked prof. Calavia. He emails 30 hand outs at the beginning of the semester and assigns homework problems for each chapter (all test questions come from this material, which he covers in class). He does have a bad attitude, though. He comes to class late and tries to intimidate students. But get over it, he's a good teacher.

4.0
5.0
PHY2053
May 2, 2010

physics is not my favorite subject but I still ended up with an A. His class is not easy but as long as you study, do the hw and the reviews you will be fine .He does come late and loves to talk about things that have nothing to do with the subject but he is not out to torture you.

3.0
3.0
PHY2048
May 3, 2010

DO NOT TAKE FOR LAB! 50% I

3.0
3.0
PHY2048
May 3, 2010

DO NOT TAKE FOR LAB! 50% is the lab experiments (easy A) n the other 50% is the final which is ridiculous questions, some of the things werent even taught in lab or lecture. So u have a guarenteed C (or B if u guess right on some on the final questions) -_-

2.0
2.0
PHY2053
Aug 15, 2010

Calavia's test questions directly come from the HW problems or the worksheets he gives out, and the test questions are nothing challenging provided you studied/remembered the necessary equations/concepts. Other than having a boring personality and a almost inaudible voice, his class is not hard at all, just prepare to study hard.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Aug 21, 2010

he should work on the farm not teaching at college. he is disrespectful and really terrible.

2.0
4.0
PHY2054
Aug 25, 2010

This professor is very rude, sarcastic, and expects us to know everything when we entered class the very FIRST DAY. I had him for lab and he fails people for no reason if he doesn't like you or you pester him a lot. RUN AWAY FROM HIM!!! HE MIGHT BE EASY BUT NOT A VERY FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE!

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
May 1, 2011

The class was PHY2053L. The lab work and experiments itself are easy. which is 50% of your grade. Now the final is the other 50% he does not review and just tells you it covers everything we have done. DUH! that is what all finals are a review of everything taught in class. He does not allows notes/formula sheet and yet the test paper said we could

4.0
2.0
PHY2054
May 15, 2011

Prof. Calavia can be intimidating at first but he is not that bad. As long as u study the hw problems u can ace the class. I had him for PHY2053 & PHY2054 and I aced both. He also gives extra credit which helps u guarantee a higher letter grade than what you have.

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Aug 5, 2011

MUST sit in front row AND participate. Mumbles with HEAVY accent. MUST do hw (for you). 5 multiple choice 10 question tests (no notecards). Gets questions from professors manual. Gives 30 point simple EC (only reason why I managed the B). MUST study and dedicate time (not just cram the night before). Do the above and you should be fine.

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Aug 5, 2011

LAB class. 10 labs (50%), 1 final test (50%). Reports easy A (done in about hour and a half once getting the hang of it). Reports due at the beginning of class and checked while you do new lab. Must study for final, problem solving questions (ex: what is the weight the object in water with "this" info? same as the lecture class tests)

2.0
5.0
PHY2053
Nov 16, 2011

This professor is not any good. I've taken the class twice and every year only like 7 students show up for the final the rest gave up or dropped. Most of his students fail or pass with a C. OVERALL, be completely devoted to this class or fail.

2.0
5.0
PHY2054
Jul 28, 2012

PHY2054L - just took him over the summer for lab only. He would reference lecture sometimes which left me lost. Had 100% going into final, but he would not review with us. Got a C in the class because I had no idea how to prepare. Awful, miserable guy, unhelpful, avoid taking his classes if you can.

1.0
5.0
PHY2048
Dec 14, 2012

Ok so I just got out of his final for the lab and if you want me to give you a good advise, DO NOT TAKE THIS GUY!!! Unless you want to finish with a D. I have 10's in all his labs but the final is impossible to pass, which is 40% of your final grade so do the math.This guy should not be teaching he doesn't care for the student.

2.0
5.0
PHY2053
Mar 22, 2013

Horrible professor. Doesn't like to teach, he is very hard.

2.0
4.0
PHY2048L
Apr 30, 2013

Lab reports with this guy are easy. He's picky about a few things but he mostly skims over the reports. His final is a killer. No formula sheet and included material that wasn't covered in lecture or in lab. Doesn't seem to care about any of his students. Got an A in lecture and didn't so well in his lab.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
May 6, 2013

He is smart but a bad instructor, so here are 6 steps to easily pass this class: go to every class, pay attention to the work in class, take lots of side notes, review the subject at home helping you with the text book, do the extra credit work, and here is the best part: you don't have to do hw if you can get a clear understanding of each subject.

2.0
4.0
PHY2053PHY2053L
May 13, 2013

Not an easy A. Do all the hw provided in syllabus a couple of times and you'll be fine. I finished with an A in both lab and lecture so it's not impossible. He is a cold dude. Get the textbook as that's where the hw is, also class probs. Taking Physics 2 in summer with him. Get it over with and pull through!

3.0
2.0
PHY2048L
Dec 14, 2013

The lab reports are really easy to get a good grade in,sometimes just skims through them. Final:10 questions. Multiple choice (and I mean ABDCEFG), and you show your work. Its not as impossible as some other raters say it is, but it is hard if you don't review your formulas. Look at the lab reports for the final. They HELP.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Jul 23, 2014

Lets just put it this way, he is NOT physically, mentally or psychologically capable of teaching. He constantly forgets things and does not have a structured teaching technique. VERY unorganized and unhelpful. His way of teaching is confusing and he forgot to gove the whole class exams which jeopardized our grades. NOWAY!

4.0
2.0
PHY2048L
Dec 21, 2013

Professor Calavia is a nice guy and is very intelligent. He will help you if you seek his help during office hours. Don't let his demeanor intimidate you. SHOW UP TO TIME ON CLASS or you will receive a reduced grade on your lab report. Do all The lab reports and make your best effort to attend every lab.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Jul 26, 2014

disorganized. Forgot to give 1 exam and now is pulling a final worth 300 pts with only 15 questions covering 8 ch. he gives no partial credit although you have to display full work to receive any credit. DO NOT TAKE THIS GUY! he just can not teach and does not even care about you. we tried to get a study guide and he refused

1.0
5.0
PHY2054
Aug 13, 2014

The topic itself is not easy. Attendance is not mandatory, most people dont go. very unorganized. Smart guy. but he is a really bad instructor. difficult to understand or to hear. Extra credit is about watching videos from PETA. Do the homework

4.0
2.0
PHY2048L
Aug 24, 2014

He is confusing most of the time, but is an super easy grader for the labs. Only has 1 test which is of medium level if you did well on the lecture. Many people say his final is impossible but it is not if you did study all the lab sheets. The final is based on the labs and common sense, but you need to be comfortable with solving physic problems

5.0
2.0
PHY2053
Sep 10, 2014

The class in general is not easy but if you do the homework and attend each class you should be fine. He seems intimidating at first but he will answer any questions you have during office hours. I got an A, I dont think it was as bad as people make it out to be, smart guy.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 22, 2014

One of the worst Professors at MDC! I dropped the class because I knew there was no way I could pass. If you are good at teaching yourself and willing to show extensive work on exams then you stand a chance. Otherwise RUN JUST RUN WHILE YOU CAN!

2.0
3.0
PHY2053
Grade: C
Jan 5, 2015

After reading the reviews I thought I would give him the benefit of the doubt Of the 10 questions of the tests 2 are theory In lecture he just takes the problems from the book plugs in the data into the formula and doesn't explain how to get there Doing the suggested problems is a waste of time the tests are like the example he does in class

3.0
3.0
PHY2053LAB
Jan 5, 2015

He is an easy grader on the lab reports and he explains what we have to do before each lab The lab reports weigh 60% and the final 40%There are no quizzes My only complain about him for the lab is that he didn't let us know when the final was and it wasn't on the syllabus I suggest you study each lab report & make sure you understand it

1.0
5.0
PSY2053
Mar 11, 2015

I have never had a worse professor in my life. His classes are useless because half of the test is from the book anyways, he's a horrible professor who doesn't care if every student drops the class or not. I didn't check this site before going into his class, if you are reading this before you start taking his class: DROP IT!!! you have been warned

3.0
5.0
PHY2054
Grade: A
Apr 15, 2015

Really hard class and he's really mean. He's a smart professor and knows what he's doing but you have to pay a lot of attention.

4.0
4.0
PHY2054
May 11, 2015

Very very intelligent man. He knows his stuff but he can be really mean at times. Class is hard there are five exams and the last one (final) replaces lowest grade. He loves cats.

5.0
4.0
PHY2053
Grade: A+
Aug 29, 2015

He is a very serious professor. He tests you on what he covers and gives study guides. He will help you if you need, the homework is optional but it behooves you to do it. DO NOT TALK in his class to anyone but him --he hates interruptions. His tests are short, sweet and to the point. Pay attention and ask questions if needed and you'll be fine.

2.0
5.0
PHY2054L
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2015

He is an easy grader on the lab reports but the final exam that is worth 40% of your grade only has 7 questions and I studied for a month in advance and it still took me by surprise. It wasn't that bad but just be prepared to solve odd physics problems. Reading graphs and using formulas. You can only get one wrong for an A with perfect reports.

2.0
5.0
PHY2054L
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2015

Just be careful with the final exam. It is worth a lot and has 7 questions. I couldn't understand what he was saying when he was explaining the labs but if you ask him for help he will try his best. Study in advance for the finals exam and get ready for the worst because the physics problems are pretty weird. He is slack on the lab reports.

5.0
4.0
PHY2053
Dec 28, 2015

His exams and lectures are straightforward, 10 questions multiple choice. The questions are similar to lecture problems we solved in class, there are handouts online to supplement studying and some questions come from the handouts as well. He follows the syllabus so you know what to expect for class that day. Go to class because notes are a must!!

5.0
1.0
PHY2048
Grade: A+
Apr 26, 2016

Best professor ever. Youll fall in love with him.

2.0
4.0
PHY2053
Grade: C
May 5, 2016

He clearly knows the material but doesn't know how to teach and goes extremely fast.

2.0
4.0
PHY2053
Grade: A
May 10, 2016

Alright so on the first day of class I wasn't that worried. I did all the homework handouts ended up getting my First 70%. I was terrified because of the fact that I was 10 points away from failing. I continued studying as hard as I could and Got an A in the class. Im pretty sure it was because he curved the final grade for everyone. Avoid him.

3.0
3.0
PHY2053
Grade: B
Jul 27, 2016
Would take again

He teaches you what you need to know for tests. Physics is a hard subject so regardless you are going to have to study and teach yourself more on your own. The book helps and his teachings and tests come from the handouts/hw practice problems he emails you. He is helpful during office hours if you don't understand something but it was a tough class

1.0
4.0
PHY2048
Grade: C+
Nov 18, 2016
Wouldn't take again

not very self explanatory when it comes to assignments.. no interaction pretty much just qiet nit much to say class has no boost

1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 8, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Terrible stay away from him, he is a very tough grader any small mistake on your lab and you lose lots of points. Test are difficult too, very hard to understand him at times (tongue). I wished i had the time to see him after class to make sure i get all the labs right. His Physics class is hard too.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
2.0
PHY2048L
Dec 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Terrible. Just terrible. Avoid at all costs.

5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2054
Grade: A+
Dec 19, 2016
Would take again

AMAZING professor! Easy A if you do the given homework. I got all A's in Physics 1 & 2. I recommended him to everyone I know and we all passed with A's. He LOVES cats, talk about them and you'll get on his good side! Great professor & will help you with questions during tests. In my opinion, best professor for Physics in MDC.

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
3.0
PHY2054
Grade: A
Dec 27, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Great guy, terrible professor. Your stereotypical tenured prof. Does not respond to emails, extremely forgetful. He was three weeks behind the class schedule; had to rush through Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity in one class. His love for the subject is evident, but he sets the bar at a new low with his teaching style. SoManyGradingMistakes

Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
PHY2043
Dec 26, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This professor has very little care for you or what you learn. He teaches in a completely different style from the book, so if you dont understand what hes doing you need to see a tutor to actually teach. Half of the people I started dropped the class, misgrased 4 of my 5 tests, behind on lecture, incredibly forgetful. Just a terrible professor

1.0
4.0
PHY2053
Grade: B
Dec 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This guy will legitimately tell you on the first day of class that he "is not a teacher or a babysitter." He is difficult to understand (accent) and is hard of hearing. When solving problems as a class, you will have to scream out the answers to him from even the first row of desks. Exams are super tough, DO THE EXTRA CREDIT!!

Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
PHY2054
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 12, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Can't understand a thing he says. He's exams are very tough. The way he explains is by solving a problem on the board and talking to himself. He is always late to class.. I know MDC does not have very good professors in the physics department but this one has to be the worst of the worst.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
PHY2053
May 16, 2018
Wouldn't take again

ONLY gives grades on tests. No homework, no in class assignments, and the ONE extra credit he gives is to force you to watch an animal cruelty video. His tests are only 10 questions and they make you want to cry.

1.0
3.0
PHY2048L
Grade: A
Jun 2, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Final is mandatory and 50% of your grade. You WILL NOT understand anything he says. States that he's an "aerospace engineer" without any experience with education and has no care for the job. Our class got lucky that he had a fit and started attacking the equipment during the final, to the realize what he had done and subsequently passed everyone

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
GROUP PROJECTS
1.0
1.0
PHY2053LAB
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 5, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Never have I had such a terrible professor in my life. I have no clue what he is saying when he speaks. Super hard to hear him when he speaks even if you are standing right next to him. Doesn't care about his students and just wants to go home early. On top of that he is 30 mins late to every single class.

2.0
4.0
PHY2053
Jan 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Stay away, he lectures basically for himself because you can barely hear what he says and when you ask questions he makes you feel like an idiot for not knowing things. There is homework but its not graded and your grade consists of 4 or 5 exams, depending how far he gets in class. He is a good person, just not so good of a professor.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
PHY2053
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 20, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This guy is horrible. For textbook use I put non-mandatory because you don't use it for anything besides the problems he tells you to study but none of the questions he tells you to study are on the test. He is also 10-20 minutes late every class even on test days. He doesn't teach the chapter just writes on the board and expects you to learn.

Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHY2053PHY2053L
Grade: A
May 6, 2019
Wouldn't take again

horrible teacher, stay away from him . he doesn't collect the homework don't even waste your time doing them and they will not be on your test. get ready to teach yourself the material. I pass the class by studying on my own.

1.0
5.0
PHY2053LAB
Jul 30, 2019
Wouldn't take again

THE WORST PROFESSOR IN ALL OF SOUTH FLORIDA. HE SHOULD NOT BE TEACHING. He is very disrespectful. When you say hello and try to be polite he ignores you, has THE WORST ATTITUDE. He has a weird tongue lisp that makes it so much harder to understand him and gives no study guide for final which is worth 50% of your grade. Something has to be fixed.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
PHY2053LAB
Grade: C+
Aug 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This guy sucks , worst professor i have ever seen , he will literally tell you he is not there to teach you and that he pretty much doesn't care if you pass or learn anything. He speaks very low and you can hardly understand anything he is saying. his final is worth 50% so it doesn't matter if you got a 10 in all the labs

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Do not take this professor for physics. He is late all the time, VERY difficult to understand, does not demonstrate problems properly, and comes unprepared for class. He doesn't care to be there and barely teachers. A lot of students failed the class.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHY2053
Jan 12, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Difficult to understand his lectures. Physics is not easy and his lisp does not help. Test were multiple choice 10-12 questions. If youre good at physics and do the homework, you could pass. Do not recommend.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
PHY2053
Grade: A
Apr 27, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He has only five tests in his class, 4 exams and 1 final. There is hw but It is not graded, so your grade depends on the average that you get within those 5 tests. There are 30 points extra credit that you can receive for watching and writing about an animal cruelty video. He is a nice person obsessed with cats, but you will have to teach yourself.

Graded by few things
EXTRA CREDIT
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
PHY2053LAB
Grade: B
Apr 27, 2020
Wouldn't take again

You have to work in groups, very easy if you ask him enough questions then he will do the lab for you and you just write down everything he is saying. Grades consist of about 10 labs and one final exam worth 50% of your grade. going through the labs will not help you study for final.

Gives good feedback
Group projects
So many papers
3.0
4.0
PHY2054
Grade: A
Apr 27, 2020
Wouldn't take again

five exams, 4 tests & 1 final, & 30 extra credit points that you can receive. that is your grade in the class. no hw, or classwork or group project. study hard to pass because he is horrible at teaching & explaining. some students cheated & made It look easy, I studied using his handout. mid way through semester COVID happened & that helped us pass

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
PHY2054L
Grade: A
Aug 18, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Taken during summer covid. He doesn't know how to really use a computer so its tough even contacting him. my advice is to get in a group chat with your class and thatll be your ticket to passing. did 11 lab reports and the final exam which is 50% and 50% of your grade so you cant pass without one or the other..

Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
1.0
3.0
PHY1025
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 22, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Professor Calavia was probably one of the worst professor Ive taken class with. He barely responded to any emails that I sent him, you really have to rely on the textbook because his handouts arent really helpful, Im not even sure if he assigned any homework assignments, and we didnt do online class for his course.

1.0
4.0
PHY2053LAB
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 1, 2021
Wouldn't take again

From this year's syllabus it appears the class is based only on weekly labs. Due to being online, he provides the data and handouts... but that's it. No direction on what he wants or how he wants it to look. My entire class was in a single Whatsapp and all were struggling on understanding what he wanted. Many complained or reached out with no help

Graded by few things
Tough grader
3.0
2.0
PHY1025
Grade: A
May 1, 2022

Grade is determined by 5 Tests: 4 Tests and a Final. 30 Extra Credit Points available for an Animal Cruelty video. His handouts were helpful, and his lectures are okay but not amazing. Generally receptive to questions. Will occasionally make an opinionated quip about various topics that can make him seem unapproachable. Not responsive to email.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
PHY2053LAB
Jul 21, 2022
Would take again

He is a really nice proffesor he grade only the lab reports he gives a week to turn it in and explain the whole thing he even give a demonstration and let you work on groups, he is really patient and answer all questions you may have you just have to ask! He even put the formulas on the board just do the experiment and he grade per completion!

Gives good feedback
Caring
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2053
Jul 21, 2022
Would take again

He is such a nice guy and overall great Professor. He wants us to learn if you put interest and cares about us. He is flexible and understanding. I had a hard time at the beginning due to his accent but now is all good! You get used to it, I definitely recommend taking him! You will not regret it!

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Caring
4.0
1.0
PSY2053
Jul 21, 2022
Would take again

He's kind, his lectures are straightforward and exams/homework are VERY similar to the classwork He's amazing. There's no reason to NOT take him.

Caring
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2053L
Jul 21, 2022
Would take again

He is astounding. Explains very well. Avoid missing any lectures. He answers all questions. I do recommend him. There are a few things I feel like I have to mention every lab turn in the work at the beginning is easy as long as you follow instruction during class.I am still taking his class.

Inspirational
5.0
1.0
PHYSICS
Grade: A+
Jul 21, 2022
Would take again

He is continuously willing to assist you. Physic with him was my best lesson at MDC.If you are willing to learn, be prepare to get an A for sure.

5.0
1.0
PHY
Grade: A+
Jul 22, 2022
Would take again

Easy as long as you do your work!

5.0
1.0
PHY2043
Grade: A-
Jul 23, 2022
Would take again

Be patient, he is not bad sometime is not that easy to understand him but if you please close attention it make sense easy class

Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2054
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

easy a

Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2054
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

He is the best weekly labs and a final easy peasy lemon squeezy

Caring
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2054
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

only class work this class is a trip

Caring
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2053
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

He tries really hard to make the class easy for us.

Caring
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHYSICS
Grade: A
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Jose Calavia is one of the nicest professors ever. If you participate in class your good.

Clear grading criteria
Caring
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2054
Grade: A
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Easiest class Ive taken. Be sure to go to class!

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Respected
5.0
1.0
PHY
Grade: A-
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Easiest class you could possibly take at MDC.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Respected
5.0
1.0
PHY2054L
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

He is very wise & knows alot of about everything. Hes also very funny & the class is fun overall. Not hard, at all. TAKE HIM!!!

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Respected
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2054
Grade: B+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

He gives barely any work, very lenient and is fun to have class with.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Respected
5.0
1.0
PHY2043
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

e was absolutely the BEST. I'm done this semester and this has been the only class of mine where attendance is mandatory. And wow, I'm SO happy about it. He's A GEM to say the least. Show up, participate, and you will get an A. No book.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Respected
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2054
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Best teacher Ive ever had in my entire college career. Hes so easy going and understanding.

Hilarious
Caring
Respected
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2053L
Grade: A
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

He is so awesome and really cares about his students. His assignments are not difficult and he gives you a lot of time to work on them. Todd will tell you great stories and you will learn many interesting things in his class. If you choose him as your professor you will not regret it.

Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
PHY2054
Grade: B
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Awesome professor, very nice & respectful passionate about his job and cares about his students. The classwork isn't hard.

EXTRA CREDIT
Group projects
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
PHY2054
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

full of knowledge and super understanding.

Caring
Respected
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PHY2054L
Grade: B+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

he seriously wants his students to learn and pass!

Participation matters
Group projects
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
PHY2054
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

TAKE THIS PROFESSOR!! Took him for Summer B (2022) and he made PHY2054 an overall easy class.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2053L
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Best professor ever, take it, you won't regret

Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
PHY2048L
Grade: A
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

He explains things so well, using good examples that are easy to understand. PHY was always something I struggled with, and he really made me feel like I could do it!

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
PHY2053PHY2053L
Grade: A+
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Grade is determined by 5 Tests: 4 Tests and a Final.

Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
Group projects
1.0
4.0
PHY2048L
Grade: C
Aug 23, 2022

I was fooled by the very obvious fake reviews which led to the ultimatum of having to drop the class, beware!

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
4.0
1.0
PHY2048L
Grade: A+
Oct 27, 2022
Would take again

So besides the fake reviews. This guy is not bad. Hes hard to understand, if you talk in class u wont hear him, hes very old. But the class is very easy. He does all the calculations on the board and u just have to plug in the #s and recreate the formulas in excel and that's ur "report." Very simple. He does answer questions in class if u ask him.

Clear grading criteria
1.0
4.0
PHY1025
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2022

The professor was really disrespectful to his students on more than one occasion. The notes are very messy and disorganized and we kinda have to guess what is gonna be on the tests. I didn't learn anything at all from him, all I did learn was from studying on my own.

1.0
4.0
PHY1025
Dec 15, 2022

i would advise you not to take him

1.0
3.0
PHY2053LAB
Grade: C
Dec 19, 2022

Don't say I didn't warn you...DON'T TAKE HIM. Those reviews with good ratings are 100% fake. He has to be one of the worst professors at MDC. I didn't feel supported at all. He needs to go ahead and retire.

1.0
5.0
PHY1025
Grade: Incomplete
Mar 28, 2023

His accent makes him hard to understand during class. He doesn't allow makeups, even if you have an important meeting, or if someone in your family is in the hospital, so make sure not to die if you take this class. Although he doesn't give homework, keeping up with the class is close to impossible. Make sure you self learn everything because damn.

1.0
4.0
PHY1025
Grade: B
Aug 20, 2023

Often made mistakes. Once marked F's on multiple students exams because he incorrectly read the answer key. Promised to give formulas on exams and never gave all the ones that were needed. The sub we had for the day he was gone was much more clear and precise than he was all semester. Be prepared to teach yourself the material. Overall mid.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

63%

Textbook Required

60%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 44 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
A+ (13)
B (5)
Grade Distribution
A(29)B(5)C(6)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 53 reported grades
A: 16
A+: 13
B: 5
C: 4
Common Tags
Graded by few things (15)
Caring (10)
Clear grading criteria (8)
Hilarious (8)
Inspirational (8)
Skip class? You won't pass. (7)
EXTRA CREDIT (7)
Tough grader (7)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.33 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PHY3320

5.0

(1)

PHY2053PHY2054

5.0

(5)

PHYSICS

5.0

(2)

PHY2053PHY2053L

3.8

(6)

PHY2043

3.8

(4)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

INTROPHYSICS

5.0

MARKETING

5.0

PHY1025

3.9

PHY2053

3.8

PHY2053LAB

3.4

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