3.9

Kalpa Patel

Biology - Oakton Community College - Des Plaines

3.9
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
70%
Would Retake
108
Reviews
3.9
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
4.1
Helpful
3.8
Clarity

70%

Would Retake

108

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

62

4

19

3

9

2

4

1

14

What Students Say

Forming a study group or having a study partner is the best option to succeed

BIO121 - 5.0 rating

Patel is by far the most passionate instructor I have ever had

BIO121 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

81%

Textbook Required

29%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 66 grades
Most common grades:
A (23)
A+ (12)
B (11)
Grade Distribution
A(35)B(13)C(8)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(9)
Based on 71 reported grades
A: 23
A+: 12
B: 11
B+: 9
Common Tags
Get ready to read (21)
Clear grading criteria (14)
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Lots of homework (12)
Caring (11)
Tough Grader (11)
Accessible outside class (11)
TEST HEAVY (8)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.58 avg change
May
Sep
Jan
May
Sep
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

122

5.0

(1)

BIO 122

5.0

(1)

121

4.3

(13)

229

4.3

(4)

BIO122

4.0

(12)
+3 more courses
Difficulty by Course

229

4.0

BIO 122

4.0

CSC121

4.0

121

3.8

BIO121

3.6

Reviews (108)
5.0
3.0
BIO121
Oct 23, 2012

She is a fair professor and works hard with her students. Hard tests but if you study then with her study guides and textbook, you will be able to excel in class

5.0
2.0
BIO121
Oct 20, 2012

The Clear thing is if you study hard then you will be fine.She is hard grader and her exams are also hard.You have study a lot in whole class.She is really nice and helpfull.

3.0
3.0
BIO121
Dec 5, 2012

Her lectures contain very little information and are of no help when it comes to tests. If you ever go over the study guide you will see that you have to go back to the book and learn everything on your own. Her labs never turn out because she doesnt know what shes doing, she blames the class for not following directions when she doesnt know them.

5.0
3.0
BIO121
Dec 10, 2012

Dr. Patel is very helpful and easy to approach in her office. I learnt a lot in this course by working through her lectures, using the textbook and working through her online quizzes and her study guides. At this time I feel confident and well prepared to continue my degree in a four year university.

3.0
3.0
121
Mar 19, 2013

She is an okay teacher but her English skills stop her from being a great one. Pro's-Very organized material,knows material well, somewhat helpful.Con's-Reads from slide shows sometimes,she knows material well but expects you to be more specific than her(on test/quizzes). If you take the class then concentrate on the text book more.

5.0
3.0
BIO121
Apr 8, 2013

Best teacher, she has a thick accent but she goes ABOVE and beyond to help out her students. Expect lots of work in the class, 2-3 quizzes a week but the quizzes are directly from the slides and textbook and she gives a lot of extra credit on the quizzes. The tests are easy besides the essay (usually 2) they are worth 25% of the test.

5.0
2.0
BIO121
Apr 16, 2013

Professor Patel is a great teacher! She's passionate and genuinely wants to see you succeed. Lectures are easy to follow. Quizzes and pretests help better prepare you for exams. If anyone gives her a sub-par rating, they didn't want to put in the time or effort. You have to do your part too!

5.0
1.0
BIO121
Apr 16, 2013

She is very good teacher. Always helpful and very organized materials. She teaches with passion

3.0
3.0
BIO121
Apr 26, 2013

The class was very difficult. Try to attend the class everyday and listen carefully throughout the lectures. Form a study group to study for exams/online quizzes. You will have to put your 100% effort to succeed in the class if biology is something you are not good at. She is a good listener so if you have a problem with something, ask her.

5.0
2.0
BIO121
May 16, 2013

She is a great teacher! always willing to help and explain again and again. A lot of quizzes, but most of them are online/open book.Just study material and you'll get an A. I wish I could take other BIO classes with her.

5.0
1.0
BIO121
May 6, 2013

Honestly, Kalpa taught me that a science class doesn't have to be extremely difficult to understand the material, and actually get a good grade. She offers PLENTY of extra credit to make up for quizzes, puts EVERYTHING online, a lot of office hours, and a willingness to help students who are falling behind. Great professor; would HIGHLY recommend.

5.0
2.0
BIO121
Jul 26, 2013

Ms. Patel is a great teacher! Many students will complain because of the amount of quizzes she gives out, but trust me, theres ALWAYS extra credit available which helps at the end of the day. Tests varies from short answer, multiple choice, true/false, and some matching. Do the work, go back and review her power points. she also gives study guides!

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Sep 10, 2013

Mrs. Patel is a very good professor. She does everything she can to help out and gives alot of points. I had her for her first year and I loved waking up to go to her early class. She has alot of intuition and is eager to help. Brilliant teacher and you will find her very funny too! MUST TAKE CLASS!!!

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Oct 8, 2013

She is very fair in her grading and easy to approach. Definitely you have to study through the textbook if you want to excel in her class. I had chemistry background and so the 1st 3 weeks were easy but the topics are tough after her exam 1. Emphasis on critical thinking.

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: Pass
Oct 11, 2013

She is helpful and easy to approach, but the course material is tough and definitely needs a lot of reading and making connections. Her quizzes and exams have many critical analysis questions. She provides study guides and has review sessions which is good, but you will have to do study a lot.

4.0
2.0
BIO121
Nov 18, 2013

She is one the best bio teachers at Oakton. you have to work hard for her class and spend quality amount of time on readings but her lectures and power points are really helpful,review sessions before exams are also helpful and her tests are basically from her power points and study guide i would suggest taking her

5.0
2.0
BIO121
Dec 19, 2013

She is really nice. Work Hard you will surely get an A.

5.0
3.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Jan 16, 2014

I took Professor Patel's class before transferring to the biology program at a 4-year university. I have repeatedly used her PPT slides for reference in my current classes. She explains and presents everything so well! Thanks to her, I have a solid bio background. Wish there were more teachers like her at a 4-year university. Thank you!

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Mar 14, 2014

Dr. Patel explains the concepts very well and easy to approach. But the course is tough and it requires a lot of reading. She emphasizes on critical thinking and that is interesting to me verses just memorization of terms. Take her class only if you are a biology major.

3.0
5.0
BIO121
Apr 10, 2014

She is ridiculously hard you literally have a quiz for every class she gives you a online quiz, lab quiz and a in class quiz every week without fail. I do not recommend her at all unless you really like to work. Her exams are really hard too.

5.0
4.0
BIO121
May 16, 2014

I enjoyed Prof. Patel's class. People complain about # of quizzes, but I found them helpful to prepare for the exams. Definitely I put in lots of efforts - textbook is a must for her class.

5.0
2.0
BIO121
May 21, 2014

(-)posts R Lousy students. Its BIO. You must put time to Study. Yes. lab & inclass qwz evry wk, but only ~5 BASIC q's + EC. B immersed in Bio,her lecture, lab & pay attention & U wont fail the qwz's. Her Tests R the qwz's & SOLELY her study guide. The book is very helpful. Shes awesome, Her class had me understand bio. half assing this class= NO A

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Nov 19, 2014

Hard class, be prepared to study a lot and put a lot of effort into this class. Definitely come to class every day. Good professor, very knowledgeable and willing to help students succeed. Content is very tough, and there is a lot of content covered over the semester. Forming a study group or having a study partner is the best option to succeed.

5.0
4.0
BIO122
Grade: B+
Feb 10, 2015

1 pre-class assignment a wk. (not mandatory but helps to prepare you for class) 1 in-class quiz a wk (based on what you learned the previous day, 5questions) 1 online quiz in a wk (based on what you learned that week) 4 exams that are directly from her PPTs and study guides 4 easy group presentations Lots of work, but LOVED this class with Kalpa

3.0
5.0
BIO122
Grade: B-
Jan 30, 2015

hated the class. gives an insane amount of quizes + no extra credit. likes to talk about and reference her cancer research every lecture. reads everything off pwrpoint. "pre class assignments" which means you teach yourself everything. would not recommend. pleasant personality, but class wasnt well planned out. too many variables in grading.

5.0
3.0
122
Grade: B+
Apr 8, 2015

Prof. Patel is very helpful. She gives pre-class assignments in which she provides links to videos and articles and provides questions related to those videos. This helps me to learn the material better as I can stop the video when my brain freezes and go back and complete the assignment again later on.

4.0
3.0
BIO122
Grade: A+
Apr 8, 2015

Its an easy A if you work through the pre-class assignments, study guides , presentations.

5.0
1.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
Apr 9, 2015

Prof. Patel is a great teacher, she knows her stuff and works with the student even outside of class. The material is tough and I put a lot of time in this class but I think it is worth it.

5.0
3.0
BIO122
May 13, 2015

I really liked Prof. Patel's teaching style. Since I am also working, pre-class assignments really helped me to learn material at my own time. I really enjoyed group projects as the work got distributed among group members. Also, now I can write in my resume that I did group projects- which is valued to get admission into a competitive program.

5.0
3.0
BIO122
May 17, 2015

Dr. Patel knows her stuff very well and is patient with the students. I enjoyed the class with her and would definitely recommend her.

4.0
3.0
121
Grade: B+
Jun 14, 2015

She is really good at explaining. It might seem boring since she's very repetitive but it helps you understand. Has a little accent but is still clear to understand. online and class quizzes every week but she often uses the same questions in her exams. Just go through her presentations or you can always go to her she is very helpful.

1.0
4.0
BIO122
Grade: A
Oct 15, 2015

Poorly organized, a lot of useless information in lectures but focuses on miniscule details on exams. Expectation is that you regurgitate information instead of showing what you learned. Poorly timed exams! You'll have 30 min for long exams and 1 hour for quick easy quizzes. Treats college students like they are in 3rd grade.

5.0
3.0
BIO122
Grade: A
Oct 19, 2015

I have taken other hybrid classes and I found this one to be straight forward and easy to work. The weekly study guides are really very helpful. If you are good with time management, then this class is for you - you just have to come once a week for the class and the rest is online.

4.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: C
Nov 23, 2015

TAKIN Her rn. tbh and fast. great teacher, teaches great. but everyweek quizes. 4 big exams. 3 lab exams. and basically your graded on quizes tests and exams. i have a 75 rn. the tests are hard. she gives different tests so you cant cheat. be prepared for the first test. dont slack of. im not gona tke her for any other classes because no easy grade

5.0
4.0
BIO 122
Grade: B
Oct 28, 2015

Dr. Patel reaches out to her students and replies promptly to emails. The weekly study guides are very helpful. Some of the students are lazy, don't work through the study guide and later they complain. I am really enjoying the hybrid class as I just have to come once in a week.

5.0
2.0
BIO121
Grade: B+
Nov 23, 2015

Ive taken her for bio 121. I missed a lab and she went over the whole lab with me in her free time. She gives good lectures and has you print out the lecture so you can pay attention to her in class more. Study guides are very helpful and she explained everything well in class

5.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: C
Dec 15, 2015

In your grade these are the only things that count. Inclass quiz, online quiz, every week, 3 lab exams, 4 lecture exams. if you tryna take her expect alot of studying cause their is no easy points, plus the tests are comprehensive, tricky

5.0
3.0
BIO122
Grade: B
Dec 22, 2015

She recognizes potential and wants all of her students to succeed. She gives EVERYTHING you need to get an A in the class(study guides for each examgreat powerpoints). The material itself is difficult to comprehend, use flash cards/mnemonics . Participation in online discussions is necessary. Attendance is necessary. She is not an easy grader. GL

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
Mar 21, 2016

I am taking her class in this semester. She definitely explains very well. Don't miss her lectures as you will miss a lot. Her study guides are comprehensive but very organized and she asks questions from it and so work on it ahead of time. I am learning a lot.

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: B
Mar 23, 2016

i admit that this class is not easy, but Prof Patel keeps reminding us and so i have made a weekly schedule to study and believe me that it is definitely needed. She practices critical thinking questions in class and also gives many in the exams

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Apr 7, 2016

Mrs. Patel is by far the most passionate instructor I have ever had. She works hard to make sure that you understand everything and she is always readily available should you have any questions. There is never a time when she turns you down when you need help and she makes every attempt to make this class doable.

4.0
3.0
BIO122
Grade: A
May 17, 2016

Dr Patel made this class doable for me. She is helpful. I worked through the weekly study guides regularly and got an A in class. Lots of chapters to study in this course though, but she makes it manageable. Responds to email very quickly. Take her.

5.0
3.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2017
Would take again

Kalpa is an amazing professor. Her lectures are very clear and she cares for her students a great deal both inside and outside the classroom. She is more than just a teacher and will help you career-wise if you come to her. She gives a study guide for tests making it a very passable class.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
5.0
3.0
BIO104
Grade: B-
May 26, 2017
Would take again

Prof. Patel is amazing. Bio has never been my strongest subject and by some miracle I made it out of this class with a B. You're only graded on tests and quizzes, that's it. Quizzes are online, timed and you have one try. Exams are online but you have to take them in the testing center... therefore you definitely have to study for those to do well.

Respected
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Caring
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Oct 26, 2017
Would take again

SHE IS THE BOOM!!!!

Gives good feedback
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: C+
Nov 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

She is the most horrible professor you can ever take for bio. She does not teach! The book teaches you!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Nov 18, 2017
Would take again

Prof Patel is awesome. But be prepared to study from the book, work through her study guides and ask questions. High on critical thinking. Tests are hard. If you are not a Bio major student, it can be hard for you.

Respected
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: C-
Nov 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I don't understand her overall rating because she is one of the worst professors I' ve had. She does not grade things on time, so if you are wanting to drop the class, good luck trying to figure out your grade yourself. Her teaching style is to teach us things that will be asked on the tests.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Nov 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Don't gamble your GPA by taking her. She does not know how to teach and she treats you as if you're five.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Nov 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

SHe is never available outside of class and does not reply back to emails consistently. She is poorly organized and her lectures and powerpoints do little as studying materials for her tests, as she does not teach us the right information.

Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: C
Nov 29, 2017
Wouldn't take again

If you like your GPA, I wouldnt take this class because it is about to drop. She will give you homework with video links on them, you answer the questions WITH the answers you get from the video SHE provided and she says they are WRONG! She provides a study guide though! To bad is DOES NOT HELP AT ALL with the test... Shes nice but a horrible prof

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
1.0
4.0
BIO121
Dec 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

She is very disorganized, not easy to contact outside of class and her exams are impossible. She does provide very detailed study guides, but they still aren't helpful as her tests ask different material from what is in the study guide. She isn't very clear on the questions she asks either. Overall, horrible professor for such an easy class.

Tough Grader
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Dec 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Even though she comes across as passionate about what she is teaching, she does not articulate that well. She doesn't really care if you have other classes but expects you to prioritize hers. It is absolutely ridiculous when you see what she expects from us.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Tests are tough
2.0
5.0
BIO121
Dec 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Guys if you care about your GPA, don't take her. There are far better professors you can take that will actually help you learn the material.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Dec 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Shes honestly a really sweet person, but she cannot teach. During the lecture, she will give you definitions, but if you use those definitions on assignments or tests, she will mark them wrong because we are supposed to refer to the textbook to get the correct one. I don't understand why she can't give the right definition, to begin with.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Dec 4, 2017
Would take again

Prof Patel is awesome and is available outside class, I had missed two classes in a row and she reviewed the entire chapter with me.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: B
Dec 7, 2017
Would take again

She is very passionate about her subject and makes sure that you understand what she is teaching. I enjoyed her lectures and especially when she asked thought provoking questions, it helped me understand better.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
BIO104
Grade: B+
Dec 10, 2017
Would take again

I dont know why Professor Patels ratings are low. Shes a great professor. I took her class online and she provided great information to guide you like YouTube and Khan Academy. She was always available by email and always willing to help. I dont usually do well in science classes, but I got an A. Study the quizzes for the test, almost identical!

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
2.0
BIO121
Grade: B+
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Patel is one of the best and finest professor out there. She basically has 4 tests and 3 lab exams. They are not that tough though if you listen to her. She explains the materials as she is already very god and super knowledgeable abut it. The good thing about her class is that she doesn't rely on powerpoints as my previous professor did.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
BIO104
Grade: A+
Dec 19, 2017
Would take again

4 exams at 100 pts each and weekly quizzes. for total of 100 pts also exams are taken in writing center at campus. To do best in this class, complete the study guide that is pre-provided at the beginning of the semester and totally understand the quizzes because the quiz questions are recycled for the exam. Overall, very clear class and easy A.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Jan 5, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Patel is absolutely amazing! Her lecture are thorough, and delivered in a manner of which all type learners can understand. She teaches not only for you to pass the class, but also to gain an understanding that will help in higher level science classes. I encourage you to study, study, study, and ask questions. She also gives extra credit.

Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
BIO122
Grade: A
Jan 15, 2018
Would take again

A lot of group projects, took the hybrid class so their is a lot of quizzes and test both in class and online, but her class is managable would still reccommend! You can also go back to your quizzes online to study for exam. Also don't buy textbook or lab manual, will not be used and a waste of money. Reccomended her to all my friends and sister!

TEST HEAVY
GROUP PROJECTS
1.0
5.0
BIO104
Feb 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Does not communicate with the class, never shows up in the online classroom. Worst professor ever. Would not recommend. You will fail if you don't study constantly.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
4.0
BIO104
Grade: A+
Apr 15, 2018
Would take again

I don't know why someone would give a negative rating, Dr. Patel has made the course very straight forward, provides a weekly study guide that has links to videos and reading material from the textbook and then associated questions. I work through it and I am getting an A in class. Everything is from the study guide and online quizzes.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
Apr 30, 2018
Would take again

Patel will make you work for your grade. That being said she really cares about her students and knows that she pushes her students. Just have an honest and on-going conversation with her with how your feeling in her class and what you can do to feel more confident. Her study guides are long but really help with her exams. She cares for her class.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
BIO122
May 9, 2018
Would take again

One of my favorite professors ever!She is the sweetest and so caring. She gives you all the tools and materials to help you understand the concepts so there is no reason you would do bad in her class. Participation is key. If anyone gave her a bad review it's bc they didn't put in any effort. Her class is comparable to any University level class

Respected
Participation matters
Caring
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Nov 12, 2018
Would take again

I really enjoy Professor Patel. If you follow the guidelines in her syllabus you shouldn't have any problem succeeding in her class, but it will require a lot of work. Be prepared to do the reading before coming to class, and be sure to complete the study guides. She is a very caring instructor and wants students to do well.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Caring
3.0
4.0
BIO121
Nov 16, 2018
Would take again

She's an ok teacher. There is a lot of online work done weekly. Thick accent and sometimes hard to understand her. She doesn't mess around during lab so do your best and read through the lab book before class. Weekly study guides and quizzes are also included. Half the exams are in class and the other half is online.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
BIO121
Nov 30, 2018
Wouldn't take again

she is nice but she does not know how to explain well. LOTS OF HOMEWORK every week we had 3 discussion posts, online quiz, & in class quiz. 3 lab exams. 4 exams that are two parts each one online & one in class. LOTS of study guides & materials. she is stressful. she drops the lowest grade from the 4 exams. it is supposed to be an easy class....

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2018
Would take again

I enjoyed Prof Patel's class very much. Be ready to study as you have to earn your grade. Her grading criteria is very clear and there are no surprises. I retook this class with her after taking this class in the university, she is definitely an amazing prof

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Dec 4, 2018
Would take again

Not the easiest A, but as long as you keep up with the work and pay attention to class and understand the material, you will get a good grade! Shes so nice, caring, and truly understanding. Shes always there to help. Tests are basically her study guide. Definitely, recommend.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
BIO104
Grade: A+
Dec 19, 2018
Would take again

This was my first online class and I'm so happy I took it online. Dr. Patel provides us with weekly study guides which follow the book and videos within it. We have weekly quizzes (answers can be found on quizlet) that follow the study guides. There are 4 exams (taken in the testing center)with questions that come EXACTLY from the weekly quizzes.

Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
4.0
BIO121
Jan 23, 2019
Wouldn't take again

She's nice but does not know how to explain well. She gives A LOT OF HOMEWORK! every week we had 3 discussion posts, online quiz, & in class quiz. 3 lab exams. 4 exams that are two parts each one online & one in class. LOTS of study guides & materials. She will give you anxiety and make you hate the class. She does not understand your question!!

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Apr 15, 2019
Would take again

I am taking online class with Prof Patel and I am liking it very much. It is a lot of work, but her study guides are very organized and has helped me study at my own time.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Apr 29, 2019
Would take again

This was my first time taking online class. I'm so glad I took Dr. Patel. At first I was panicked because of so much material I had to go through but then I followed the study guide, power points she provided. It was so helpful and she even gives extra credit assignments!!! Free easy extra points!!! I highly recommend her!!!

Respected
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
BIO104
Grade: B
May 14, 2019
Would take again

okay, here's the thing with this teacher, I took human genetics online with her & there are 4 exams- no finals. There are a bunch of quizzes which all the answers can be found on google. For the exams just study the quiz questions bc she pulls all the exam questions from the quizzes. I could have gotten an A if I didn't mess around but I got a B.

5.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
May 14, 2019
Would take again

Very organized course material, I enjoyed working through her study guides, they are very meticulous. It's a lot of work, expect to study 5-6 hours per week outside class but she will review your answers if you share it on Google drive. I took her hybrid course and I highly recommend her if you have good time management skills

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
Dec 13, 2019
Would take again

Professor Patel is fantastic. The material itself can be tricky, but she goes over it as slowly and in as much detail as you need. Exams and quizzes only include material relevant to the lectures and online discussions, and as long as you attend class and study regularly, you'll do great. Definitely would take again!

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
2.0
3.0
BIO121
Grade: D+
Feb 12, 2020
Wouldn't take again

the class isnt easy prepare to study alot!

Respected
Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Feb 14, 2020
Wouldn't take again

If you want your GPA to drop, go right ahead and take this class!!!!!!!!,

5.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
Jul 22, 2020
Would take again

Dr. Kalpa has a hybrid class. She will give you study guides which are optional but not really. In order to pass the class you MUST read and complete study guides. You attend once a week for lab. So attendance is important in this class. If you're not good with time management, this class is not for you. I got an A and I felt this class was easy.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
BIO104
Grade: A
Jul 10, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I took her for BIO104, online. She doesn't communicate very well and gives very little instruction. The class is A LOT of work. The tests are basically straight from the study guides, if you do them you will probably pass. I have accommodations and she was kinda weird with them. Just a meh professor.

Test heavy
5.0
3.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Mar 6, 2022
Would take again

I liked the class with Prof Kapala Patel she gives study guides and videos to watch along with the lab. Just study the study guide and you will be great!

Get ready to read
Online Savvy
1.0
3.0
BIO121
Mar 30, 2022

I dropped this class. I took it as a hybrid and there was no lecture material just study guides that didn't have clear information. It also took awhile to get email responses and they weren't helpful. If you are a good at teaching yourself through youtube, etc. this might be a good class, otherwise take a different professor.

5.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: A
Mar 31, 2022
Would take again

The study guides are extensive but helps prepare well for the exams. I like the flexibility of the hybrid class as I can work through the online lecture material on my own pace, stop and rerun the videos and schedule when I want to take exam during the exam week. But definitely you need good time management skills and it is not for non bio majors.

Test heavy
Accessible outside class
Online Savvy
1.0
4.0
BIO121
Grade: C
May 2, 2022

Study guides are incredibly inconsistent Using online proctor is an absolute nightmare Labs are disorganized and confusing Watching 500 videos and answering multiple choice questions is not a good way to learn

Lots of homework
5.0
4.0
121
Grade: A
May 7, 2022
Would take again

Lot's of extra credit . Follow her instructions and you will do well in her class.

3.0
5.0
BIO121
Grade: B
Jun 6, 2022

Be ready for A TON of work. Quiz, lab, assignment, and study guide are due every week. Theres a million videos a week that give so much information that isn't even on the quizzes or exams. The good thing is if you ask for help she will make a zoom meeting with you and look over your study guides to make sure you are ready for the quiz.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
121
Grade: B
Nov 14, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Patel is easy to approach but be ready to study a lot. She is available even outside of her office hours via zoom meeting. She makes videos of any questions you ask her to explain and uploads it for the class. You will learn a lot.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
4.0
4.0
121
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2022
Would take again

This class requires good time management skills as there is a lot going on every week with quizzes, discussion board, lab assignment, lecture assignment and four major exams. But I learnt a lot. Be ready to study.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
BIO122
Grade: B
Sep 29, 2023

Do not take biochem with her. She does not teach. No lecture recordings. Takes forever to grade exams and unclear responses via email. She is a grader, not a teacher. Quizzes are over 100 questions and exams are around 150. Avoid at all costs.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
5.0
4.0
229
Grade: A
Oct 26, 2023
Would take again

Took chem 229 with Professor Patel. Lot of weekly stuff - study guide, discussions, quizzes, group projects. Subject is very hard but manageable. Get ready to read, you will learn a ton

Get ready to read
Group projects
Accessible outside class
5.0
5.0
121
Grade: A
Oct 26, 2023
Would take again

I was afraid to take Dr. Patel's class after reading reviews. But glad I took her. I spent 8+ hours per week and it's worth it. I developed critical thinking skills and enjoyed solving critical thinking questions. Don't take her if you are lazy and cannot manage your time well.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
4.0
2.0
229
Grade: A
Nov 15, 2023
Would take again

Took CHEM 229 Biochem. Clear material to understand with the study guides she provides. What's on the quizzes is straight from study guides, what's on the test is straight from quizzes(literally exact questions). No lectures which is great. Weekly discussions which is easy to get answers for. The group projects are a bit annoying to do online.

Group projects
Lots of homework
Online Savvy
5.0
3.0
121
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2023
Would take again

Professor Patel is both knowledgeable and passionate about biology. She's willing to work with you if you take the time to pay attention and do the work

Participation matters
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
121
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 1, 2024
Would take again

SUCH a nice lady! The class is difficult because of the quizzes each week and the long study guides, but she makes bio very interesting. I love the way she talks with confidence, she cares so much about her students. Love this women so much!

Participation matters
Inspirational
Hilarious
2.0
5.0
121
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 15, 2024

Get ready for quizzes every week, long study guides, tests every 4 weeks, long question assignments that take up most of your time, and ON TOP of everything, she grades everything harshly. Very nice lady but should be teaching a more advanced class, to much work for a college student who works and has other classes.

Group projects
Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
121
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 24, 2024
Would take again

Amazing professor. You'll need to put in a lot of effort for the course but you'll gain a ton of subject knowledge. Exhaustive course material and good lecturing.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
4.0
5.0
229
Grade: B
Apr 13, 2024
Would take again

It is not an easy course but she provides a great study guide. Beware as she changes the questions in the exams unlike what someone posted. But she responds to emails fast and will make videos to explain any questions you ask unlike many online classes where you don't see any instructor presence.

Get ready to read
Group projects
4.0
5.0
229
Grade: C
Apr 15, 2024
Would take again

This course is hard, I have to put so much time for this class. But professor is very nice, she will work with you to understand the question, but exams are hard.

4.0
4.0
BIO104
Grade: C
May 12, 2024
Would take again

This class is well organized but lot of work. The exam questions are from the study guide just worded differently. So don't forget to work through it.

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
4.0
1.0
BIO104
Grade: B+
May 12, 2024
Would take again

I took Human Gentics and her course was very straight forward.Theres study guides for every week which majority of the answers can be found online or in the guide and a weekly quiz.And the exams are the same questions on the quiz.Theres also projects but the answers can found online as well.Theres really no way to fail unless you dont do the work.

Group projects
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
121
Grade: B
May 13, 2024
Would take again

Enjoyed the class. Fair grader, lot of work but very organized course work

Lots of homework
Respected
Accessible outside class
5.0
1.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
Sep 15, 2024
Would take again

Like a mom to all her students. Super kind. Take notes in class and the quizzes and exams will be a breeze. Group projects helped a lot to retain information. Overall, professor is very understanding and will help accommodate teaching to your needs.

EXTRA CREDIT
Group projects
Caring
4.0
4.0
CSC121
Grade: B+
Jan 29, 2025
Would take again

Professor Patel's class is challenging but rewarding. Expect weekly quizzes, long study guides, and rigorous assignments. However, her engaging lectures and emphasis on critical thinking make it worthwhile. Utilize resources like the textbook and Unstuck study to excel.

5.0
1.0
BIO121
Grade: A+
May 25, 2025
Would take again

She is so kind and accomadating - do not be afraid to ask questions or for a reference letter. Easily understood material as she goes through everything in a fun and memorable manner. Best class at Oakton by far.

Inspirational
Caring
Respected
5.0
4.0
121
Grade: B+
Sep 25, 2025
Would take again

The best advice I cant give to prospective students of Dr.Patel is to please, please, please take notes in class. There is lots of homework due at the end of the week, so start it early. Expect weekly practice tests, graded study guides and multiple lab assignments. As well as quarterly group presentations.

Get ready to read
Group projects
Lots of homework
4.0
3.0
121
Grade: B
Dec 2, 2025
Would take again

Lots of homework/material and detailed lectures, easy to get overwhelmed with heavy topics but Dr. Patel always takes time to explain things in detail when asked.

Group projects
Accessible outside class
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

81%

Textbook Required

29%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 66 grades
Most common grades:
A (23)
A+ (12)
B (11)
Grade Distribution
A(35)B(13)C(8)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(9)
Based on 71 reported grades
A: 23
A+: 12
B: 11
B+: 9
Common Tags
Get ready to read (21)
Clear grading criteria (14)
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Lots of homework (12)
Caring (11)
Tough Grader (11)
Accessible outside class (11)
TEST HEAVY (8)
Rating Trend

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Ratings by Course

122

5.0

(1)

BIO 122

5.0

(1)

121

4.3

(13)

229

4.3

(4)

BIO122

4.0

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Difficulty by Course

229

4.0

BIO 122

4.0

CSC121

4.0

121

3.8

BIO121

3.6

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