2.7

Lance Widman

Political Science - El Camino College

2.7
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
25%
Would Retake
143
Reviews
2.7
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
2.6
Helpful
2.8
Clarity

25%

Would Retake

143

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

23

4

21

3

35

2

30

1

34

What Students Say

His surfy guide was not useful at all his exams 80 questions had bad language and attitude don't recommend

PS1 - 1.0 rating

His test guides are so broad they are no help

POLITICALSCIEN - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

71%

Textbook Required

90%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

86% confidence
Based on 12 grades
Most common grades:
A (4)
Drop/Withdrawal (4)
B (3)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(3)C(2)D(4)F(0)A-/B+(2)
Based on 18 reported grades
A: 4
Drop/Withdrawal: 4
B: 3
B+: 2
Common Tags
Tough Grader (1)
TEST HEAVY (1)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (1)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.42 avg change
Mar
May
Jun
Jul
Sep
Feb
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

POLSCIEN

5.0

(1)

POLYSCI1HTP

5.0

(1)

POLISCIE

5.0

(1)

PSCI6832

5.0

(1)

POLSC2615

5.0

(1)
+43 more courses
Difficulty by Course

POLYSCI1

5.0

POLISCIHONORS

5.0

POS1

5.0

PS01

5.0

POLI2660

5.0

Reviews (143)
5.0
1.0
POLSCIEN
Feb 15, 2003

Wonderful teacher! Very nice and funny. Gives lots of extra credit.

5.0
3.0
POLSCI
Mar 9, 2003

No Comments

4.0
5.0
POLYSCI
Mar 12, 2003

i thought his test were very hard

5.0
3.0
POLSCI
Mar 21, 2003

Great experienced teacher. The best at teaching the subject. Very clear and helpful. I Will definetly recommend to my freinds.

1.0
5.0
POLYSCI1
Mar 26, 2003

worst teacher ever so hard

3.0
2.0
POLYSCI
May 5, 2003

No Comments

5.0
3.0
POLISCI
May 7, 2003

the class was tough but he's a great teacher. made the info as understandable as poli sci can ever be, lots of first hand experience. offered good choices on extra credit and was very fair. would reccommend him to anyone who has to take the class.

3.0
4.0
POLISCI1
Jun 16, 2003

He really loves politics and is a fun teacher. The tests are hard though- a lot of applied knowledge.

1.0
5.0
POLSCI
Aug 10, 2003

Very boring.Never lectures on anything helpful for the test.I wouldn't recommend this teacher to anybody not even my worst enemy

3.0
3.0
TELECOURSE
Oct 22, 2003

He's everything they say! Funny (yes) Loves Politics (yes) Tests very diffficult> scantron, 106+ questions, know events, terms, opinons. if you take the telecourse, you have to know it all on your own... the vidieos don't help.

3.0
5.0
POLSCI1
Jun 7, 2004

His tests are very hard, but he is a very nice guy and helps you to understand the material a bit little better.

2.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Jun 12, 2004

He's funny, but diffucult. His lectures are all over, so if you're the type of person who likes reading the text straight through, you wouldn't like him. He's moody at office hours. And his tests are difficult. It's almost as if he tries to trick you.

3.0
4.0
POLSCI1H
Jun 16, 2004

Mr. Widman is not as objective in his lectures as one would like, and the lectures are a bit scattered, but he is entertaining and very competent. If you do the reading and go to class you should be able to pull an A.

5.0
3.0
POL1
Aug 15, 2004

funny guy. Very commited to getting younger people envolved in politics. dont be asleep in the bleechers.

5.0
4.0
POLISCI
Grade: B
Aug 27, 2004

He's sort of one sided, but is a spectacular teacher who's experience really shows. Reading the book helps in this class and taking all of his notes.

5.0
2.0
POLISCI1
Oct 1, 2004

Prof. Widman is one hell of a character. Very comedic, very informed, and will take the time to explain what you don't understand. His lectures are pretty jumpy, but his teaching methods makes this subject tolerable. Easy B grade.

2.0
4.0
POLS1
Nov 11, 2004

Bad idea

3.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Dec 1, 2004

He is funny, but his lectures are scattered. His scantron tests are not that hard if you study, but he is TOTALLY UNREASONABLE when he grades the essays. I got an A on everything except for a D on the essay, with NO explanation why and I studied my ass off. Would not reccomend the class.

5.0
1.0
POLYSCI
Dec 2, 2004

No Comments

5.0
1.0
POLSCI1
Dec 4, 2004

very easy, interesting, and cool guy. helpful as well.

3.0
5.0
POL1
Dec 13, 2004

DONT TAKE HIM!!!!

2.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Dec 21, 2004

I couldn't stand this class! It was impossible for me to even get to class because of lack of interest! the class is so boring!!!! His test are so lame. i studied so hard and got an D in the class. Maybe because i never showed up. but its hard to want to show up. He's funny but thats it.

2.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Dec 24, 2004

his lectures are not very interesting yet they are compact full of useless information since his exams dont cover much of the information he gives in class. if possible take someone else as the course is very easy and interesting yet he makes taking the class a burden

1.0
4.0
POLISCI1HONOR
Dec 27, 2004

crappy teacher. gets off topic. lectures are never helpful but very boring. you have to be a brown noser to ace his class.

3.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Jan 3, 2005

Took him as a telecourse, but still had to attend on-campus sessions-he's cool-try not to listen to him too much, though-he rambles.

5.0
1.0
POLYSCI1HTP
Apr 17, 2005

The man is so bias ha can't teach. I f you are libral you might enjoy the class, all he does is bash Repulicans.

4.0
2.0
POLISCI
May 9, 2005

Look - there is no research paper, no cumulative final. He is totally liberal which ruins his credibility, but the class is EASY compared to other prof's. Plus, tests are worth 60 pts, he gives you 70+ questions so it's a makeshift curve. Easy class.

3.0
4.0
POLISCI
Jun 13, 2005

This teacher was okay. He gives four tests and drops the lowest score, plus gives lots of extra credit questions. Also allows for extra credit opportunities. The tests are hard, but he gives you handouts with all the info you need to know, as long as you study it, you will pass. No papers to write, thank God. Lectures were ok. I reccomend him.

5.0
2.0
POLISCI
Jun 20, 2005

He's great! Loved this class. Liberal bias but he's very well-informed and always prepared. Very forgiving grader.

2.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Aug 30, 2005

Very very hard class. He is really boring. And to top it all of he such a liberal bias that there is no point in him teaching. He doesn't show both sides which what the class should be about.

1.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Sep 11, 2005

No Comments

3.0
1.0
USCAGOVT
Sep 19, 2005

He was really easy. He rambles a bit (tells a lot of stories about when he was on city council, when he was mayor, etc.), and tends to be biased (heavily) towards Democrats, but the tests were extraordinarily easy, and there's no research paper or final project. Take the class! Easy A!

5.0
1.0
POLISCI
Grade: A
Sep 28, 2005

This guy knows what he is doing.

3.0
1.0
POLISCI1HONORS
Nov 19, 2005

No Comments

4.0
4.0
POLISCI
Dec 17, 2005

Just to let you know that Widman is a very tough grader. His class is not for slack offs, to get a an A in this class, you must show up in class almost everyday,must be prepared, must pay attention to his lectures, and take down alot notes, and must read the chapters in the book as assigned.

2.0
5.0
POLISCI
Jan 7, 2006

VERY BORING TEACHER! He was a pretty bias teacher. i would not recommed this class. his exams were extremely hard and they never related to his lectures. If u do take him good luck.

1.0
5.0
POLISCIHONORS
Feb 2, 2006

Rambled on a lot about nothing to do with the class or exams, his exams did not reflect his lectures, and left you feeling very unclear and confused. It doesn't help to ask ?'s, as he usually goes off on a tangent that has nothing to do with your ?. Don't take him, very few people passed, and only 2 got an A.

5.0
1.0
POLISCI1
Feb 13, 2006

Duh, yeah, you have to show up for class, take notes, read the book. Plus he gives what amounts to a study guide and will answer any questions you have. He is a totally competent professor, which is way more than I can say for the Physics and Math teachers at ECC.

5.0
2.0
POLISCI1
Mar 21, 2006

Prof. Widman is a VERY unapologetic liberal. If you don't mind his occasional conservative bashing then highly recommended for poli sci reqs. He knows his subject, and more over he's actually politically active and is more than willing to answer questions and foster understanding. Good teacher...LONG Lectures tho.

2.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Jun 19, 2006

If you have to take a class with Widman take the class three days a week because only have to put up with 1hour lectures. Class not that hard if you don't mind reading and only 4 exams you get graded on best three. Do good on 1st 3 no final needed. If you have min time to study because of work take this class, no homework or papers just reading.

3.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Jul 31, 2006

He expects you to read the book and study on your ow for the tests. His study guide helps a little. There is no research paper. It will be an easy class if you are especially interested in the subject.

5.0
1.0
PS1
Aug 5, 2006

Loves to BS and has a keen sense of wit. You'll appreciate it more if you follow the headline news. ectures can be a bit much but has great knowledge of subject and lots of practical information to share. Follow the study guides & read the book!! There's no paper and takes your best 3 out of 4 tests. Also offers extra credit to give you a boost.

3.0
3.0
POL1
Sep 1, 2006

no essays, only multiple choice questions

1.0
5.0
PS1
Nov 26, 2006

Worse teacher ever. I have a hard time and she is NOT helpful at all. I could not even recommend this class to my dog.

1.0
5.0
POLIS1
Nov 27, 2006

This is the WORST teacher that you can possibly have.

1.0
5.0
POS1
Nov 29, 2006

omg he is the worlds worst teacher... he has add to the next level.. i cant wait to be out of his class! worst than Woods!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1.0
5.0
POSCI1
Dec 1, 2006

Unhelpful, pompous, snotty and damn right mean. Never offered any words of encouragement. Close minded.

2.0
4.0
PSCI1
Dec 8, 2006

Eww, never, EVER take him.

2.0
5.0
PS1
Dec 16, 2006

Very hard to understand and he will not answer any of your questions, This teacher is very confusing

5.0
2.0
POLI101
Dec 22, 2006

He's super entertaining. So what if he's to the left?? He's honest. You MUST read the book. Cannot say it enough, he takes the exams 80% from the textbooks, and NOT the lecture! I don't know why everyone dogged him so hard on the ratings before me. Maybe they didn't study, and they got the grade they deserved in the class. I got a B. I'm happy.

3.0
3.0
POLSI2650
Jan 3, 2007

this professor is really weird!!!!! he doesn't give any homework, and his test are too complex!!!!!!!! if you consider yourself a nerd, and have no life apart from your school life go ahead and take him... but remember no HW and only 4 tests throughout the semester... but how can u do well on tests if you don't so any Hw and sit around

1.0
5.0
PS01
Jan 26, 2007

He is the worst teacher i have ever taken! He doesn't teach and talks about things that don't have anything to do with the tests.

2.0
4.0
POLI2668
May 16, 2007

if you are one of those people that needs a really good teacher in order to thoroughly understand a subject [like me ] DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!!!!! but if you insist, do the READING!!! his lectures have NOTHING to do w/ the tests [which are very complex] but he can be pretty funny at times. enter at your own risk.

2.0
5.0
PS1
May 30, 2007

Very tough class. Even if you read all the chapters you cannot get an A. His tests are very complex and you need to be a Poli Sci major to actually appreciate his "so-called-application" questions. Duh! this is not Physics.

2.0
5.0
POLI2660
Jun 9, 2007

At first, this teacher seemed really nice. But then, as the class went on, he became more and more boring. His tests are so hard, and you have to know specific things from the book, which he rarely uses in class. To make matters even worse, he does these weird noises. His voice goes up really high pitched when he is trying to make a point.

2.0
5.0
PS1
Jun 10, 2007

His test are very hard and are based on the reading not the lecture. I think that if u do the reading before class it might be easier 2 follow his personal stories. Class was ok funny lil man. u will like if u like Poli sci.

1.0
5.0
POLSC1
Jun 14, 2007

reading the book is a must if you want to pass this class. attendance is not worth it b/c you can read the book at home.but don't miss 3 days in a row b/c he will drop you if you do so. test are not easy though but he does give you extra questions on the test to help you out. he usually gives around 71 multiple choice question and only count 60.

2.0
4.0
POLSC1
Jun 16, 2007

Nice teacher, lectures sometimes get boring though. Tests weren't as hard as everyone says they are. Besides, he only counts 3 out of 4 tests and also takes the best 60 out of 70+ questions on the test so it is not hard to get a decent grade. He is kind of funny though, and the way he talks where the other guy said his pitch goes up, ha!

1.0
5.0
PS1
Jul 7, 2007

Do yourself a favor, Avoid this teacher.

1.0
3.0
POLI1
Aug 4, 2007

really AVOID HIM. the most boring teacher to ever walk the planet. i dropped him two weeks into the summer session because i could NOT handle it!

3.0
5.0
POLI1
Aug 9, 2007

SO BORING! He lecture for two hours straight. Tests are mutiple choice, but extremly hard. Almost impossible to get an "A"

3.0
3.0
POLIS1
Dec 15, 2007

Lectures are informative because he knows politics from personal experience (he's run for office, been a lobbyist, etc.). Not entirely easy class, but I preferred his m/c tests over in-class essays. I recommend the class for those who already have a foundation of knowledge in political science&a little history. Offers EC too. Funny&interesting.

3.0
4.0
PS1
Dec 21, 2007

AVIOD HIM!!!!

4.0
4.0
POLI101
Jan 16, 2008

This was one of the easiest classes I have ever taken. He gives you a study sheet and goes over it with you for EVERY test. He drops your lowest grade. He practically spoon feeds you the answers. I don't know what the other raters are talking about...I mean you're in school...you should expect to have to study a little bit.

1.0
5.0
POLI1
Feb 12, 2008

Hard Class...was not a great teacher...Studied Really hard..PULLED A C....SO TRY IT IF YOU WANT...I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND IT.

1.0
5.0
POSCI1
May 14, 2008

REALLY REALLY AVOID THIS TEACHER. Was not helpful at all instead he only talked about his house in Hermosa Beach. :-(

4.0
1.0
SOCSPS1
May 15, 2008

hE IS very funny, i love the class, but im always late lol he doesnt care, as long as you read the book you will pass, the test are soo easy!! he is a very good teacher, i think im getting an A.

4.0
2.0
GOVPOL1
May 20, 2008

THIS TEACHER IS SO COOL! VERY FUNNY GUY,I LOVED THE CLASS AND GOT AN A!JUST READ THE BOOK AND YOU'LL BE FINE, WHAT I LIKED THE MOST WAS THAT WE ONLY GAVE 3 TEST! IF YOU DID BAD ON ONE YOU COULD TAKE A 4TH ONE, BUT NO MID-TERMS NO ESSAYS NO NOTHING! I JUST STUDIED BEFORE EACH TEST, ITS ALL FROM THE BOOK. TAKE HIM!

4.0
1.0
POLIPSC1
May 20, 2008

BEST TEACHER EVER! easy tests,funny dude, take him! i dont know why they wrote bad things about him, easy and interesting class! DUH of course you have to do the reading he is not gonna do it 4 you, I totally recommend him! he rocks!

4.0
1.0
POLIS1
Jun 7, 2008

Lectures are boring, but the prof doesn't care about attendance so you can skip class & just read the book since that's all you need anyways. Takes your best 3/4 tests, lots of room for extra credit.

4.0
4.0
POLY1
Jun 15, 2008

don't listen to the 6/7/08 post. attendence counts big time. lectures are pretty good b/c he throws in life experiences. takes best 3/4 tests, READ the BOOK and study the study guide he gives you, it REALLY helps! offers extra credit, but no projects, essays, midterms, etc. take him, he's a good teacher

2.0
4.0
POLI1
Dec 10, 2008

Worst teacher EVER!

2.0
5.0
POLI1
Dec 15, 2008

The textbook is the heart of this class and if you are book smart then this will definitely be the class for you. On the other hand the classes are pointless because he mostly speak about his personal life. No I do not recommend his classes. His classes are funny full of jokes but that isn't going to help pass the class which he doesn't teach much.

3.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Jan 7, 2009

I have never worked so hard for a damn C. And im a str8 A student. Read the book like ur life depends on it! In class notes r 15% of test n da book dunt realli help much bcoz the test he gives r like a 10yrs older then the edition of the book. We had 10-12 students left in class at the end of semester. Does that say something abt him?

1.0
5.0
POLIS1
Mar 4, 2009

BORING!!! Take this class if you want to nap while listening to him go on a tangent about being on the Hermosa Beach council! I was interested on the subject until now! Wish I would've picked a teacher that cared about the students, he can't honestly believe he's teaching anything!!!

3.0
1.0
POLI1
May 4, 2009

Funny little man! I would recommend him to anyone that TOOK A HIGH SCHOOL GOV CLASS. I bought a $150 book but never opened it. if you have BASIC knowledge of fed gov then only buy the cali gov book and save your $! take the early class-no one pays attention. tests are easy if you break down the fancy words to what he's asking. easy A!

5.0
2.0
POLI1
May 15, 2009

This guy is awesome. The class is just four tests, no homework, no papers. His lectures are boring but he has tons of experience & he can be really funny sometimes. I found the class enjoyable. I would skip sometimes but when you pay attention, you're gonna do fine. REALLY great curve grade on tests. I recommend him. Just pay attention, not hard.

1.0
5.0
POL2754
May 17, 2009

this guy was so boring. please don't take him for the love of God stay away from this class. i studied my ass off for the first test and got a high D even with that shady curve he gives. only 4 tests drops the lowest test score. ramble on about nothing at times. can put you to sleep like Mr. Roger

2.0
4.0
PS1
Jun 3, 2009

Lance is a very funny fellow and uses colorful words in his lectures but don't let that fool you, he is not a good teacher. He paces back and forth in the front of the class rambling on about material that has little to do with the tests. The textbook is your life line, use it! There are four tests and he drops the lowest score, that is your grade.

1.0
5.0
POLLY4188
Jun 18, 2009

ONLY take this class if you enjoy boring teachers. His tests are obsurd... the questions are very difficult and the study guide does not really help. The highest grade i think was a C and i never used this website until i encountered this bunk teacher... but now i will always check so i NEVER get a teacher like this again.

5.0
2.0
POL1
Sep 18, 2009

He is HILARIOUS! the way he presents information is easy to understand if you pay attention, get on his good side and you are golden. Go to class every day and u will understand everything and get an hour long stand up comedy routine about whatever hes teaching!

3.0
5.0
POSCI1
Sep 22, 2009

The person below me has clearly not taken one of his tests yet, prob fall semester beginner. I took him this summer sesh and wow, his tests were really hard..mostly on stuff from the book than his lectures. Some wasn't even in the book. What saved me was his grading scale, he gives you ALOT of leeway. you can miss 15 questions and still get an A.

3.0
5.0
POSCI1
Sep 23, 2009

I got an A in his class, only because of the grading scale..He gives like 16 questions of extra credit so I would miss 20 on his tests and still get an A...that's the only way I got my A..I'd say through a miracle because wow he is HARD. Boring lectures, + his tests were absurb. Sometimes I'd wonder where he'd get some of the questions!!

3.0
4.0
POLISCI
Dec 2, 2009

He's funny, but his lectures are boring sometimes. No papers, no homework. Just 4 tests, drops the lowest. Hard!!! READ THE BOOKS!! Study guides really don't help. I studied all night and still got a D- on 2 test, dropped him.

5.0
1.0
POLISCIE
Dec 22, 2009

I don't know why everyone else thinks he is hard?! I took his class and all it takes to pass with an A is to read the book, take notes and study with the sample tests (feels like cheating since tests are almost same but are not) I recommend him to all my friends! :)

1.0
5.0
POSC1
Jan 3, 2010

Dont take this man, save yourself!!! Very difficult man to understand, teaches as if it is a masters level class. Test are so hard, I studied my behind off and still barely passed.Pick someone else but not him or else you will regret ever enrolling in college. to many boring stories.The man is nice but can be mean at times.If u take him DO EX CR

3.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Feb 16, 2010

He's a pretty hard teacher, only because 90% of the tests are from the book and only 10% from lecture..But he has his good points: there's no midterm or a final exam...oh and no written report (which most poli sci teachers give out)..he gives a lot of extra credit questions on the tests which will bump your grade ALOT. Easy to pass just frustrating

2.0
5.0
POLI1
May 12, 2010

This professor is ridiculous. This is a warning to all future students. Don't take him. I'm a Bio major with a 3.8 gpa and i'm barely at a B right now(currently half way into spring semester). His lectures are a complete joke and his tests are absolutely difficult. The ones who received good grades are brown nosers. Don't kiss up. Earn it.

4.0
2.0
POLSC1
Jun 1, 2010

Don't listen to these whiners or lazy people who probably don't even pick up the book. I took Widman in the summer last year, which makes the class more advanced AND difficult, and got an A. In fact, most of the people did. No hw, no essay tests, no final, all m/c! Just read the chapters and you'll be set for the 3 tests.

5.0
4.0
POLI1
Jul 6, 2010

He is an amazing poly sci teacher if you are actually interested in learning political science. Fun to listen to and very well informed, plus he loves the arena. No BS either... no homework no papers, all abouit the tests. I enjoyed this class very much.

4.0
2.0
POLI1
Nov 18, 2010

Widman is a great professor. No homework except regular reading in the book. Exams are great because he adds 10 to 12 extra questions free, so you get them right, it helps, you get them wrong, it does'nt hurt you. His study guides help with 60% of the test questions, the next 40% is from lectures and readings. 4 exams and drops lowest test score!!

3.0
4.0
POLI1
Nov 24, 2010

OKAY!! if you want to fall asleep in class take him. His lectures are so OFFFFF topic. Your pretty much learning poli sci on your own, if you don't have a background in Poli Sci, do not take his class. I mean, he is a nice guy, but not if your trying to get an A.

2.0
5.0
POLI1
Dec 8, 2010

I don't know if it was because I took his class once a week, but i went through hell getting a C, His study guide is too broad to be helpful. The only grades you get are 3 out of 4 tests, but don't underestimate the tests because they are very difficult. lots of reading for his class!

5.0
3.0
PSCI6832
Dec 9, 2010

READ THE BOOK!!! All test are M/C Know the vocab and you 'll pretty much get the rest... Tests are pretty easy with 12-15-Extra credit points on each test.

3.0
5.0
POLITSCIE
Dec 9, 2010

Nice teacher & very knowledgeable; but; his tests are hard on many chapters in the textbook. If you are just a student with no other responsibilities, you will probably breeze through his class. However, If you work fulltime or are a parent, it will probably be a challenge. Reading information on 11 chapters in two books is overwhelming.

3.0
5.0
POLITSCIE
Dec 9, 2010

Nice teacher & very knowledgeable; but; his tests are hard on many chapters in the textbook. If you are just a student with no other responsibilities, you will probably breeze through his class. However, If you work fulltime or are a parent, it will probably be a challenge. Reading information on 11 chapters in two books is overwhelming.

4.0
4.0
POLISCI1
Dec 12, 2010

Mr Widman is a good teacher overall. Being the lazy student that I am I did not take advantage of this class and get the grade I wanted. He gives out 4 tests, takes the top 3. Don't be dumb like me and have to ace the last test just to pass. He gives about 70 q's on the test, only counts for 60 I believe, so you have wiggle room.

3.0
5.0
POLY1
Dec 15, 2010

Nice teacher, very hard tests

2.0
5.0
POLY1
Dec 15, 2010

Only 4 tests that are really hard, because he is too lazy to give a test every two weeks. He needs to retired and hang out in Hermosa Beach where he lives.

5.0
3.0
POLSC2615
Dec 22, 2010

good professor very comprehensible and the tests are easy if u do study u don't have to ready every single pg of the chapters just read the pgs indicated in the syllabus if u do that then you'll pass attendance is highly recommended because he breaks down the info needed in the tests.You have to be willing to put time in study and you'll be fine.

3.0
5.0
POLY1
Jan 4, 2011

Nice teacher, but the test are pretty hard and he offers very little extra credit.

4.0
2.0
POLSC101
Mar 17, 2011

Overall a very good teacher. Most of the negative comments listed so far indicate very lazy students. I worked a full time night shift job and was taking several other classes and was able to get very good grades by attending class and paying attention. Gives extra credit freely, especially if the student takes time to research the opportunity.

4.0
5.0
PS2602
May 20, 2011

He was Hermosa Beach City Councilman for 16 years. He's definitely passionate about politics and extremely knowledgeable. His lectures are from all over the textbook and difficult to follow. Be ready for 4 hard test, he does drop your worst one though. A funny,tough,knowledgeable professor. I definitely recommend him due to how much I learned.

4.0
1.0
POLI1
May 23, 2011

He likes to relate the lectures to the real world and current events, so it's imperative that you read the textbook to understand the concepts behind what he talks about. Tests are not that hard, he gives you study guides and tells you all the pages to find the answers so as long as you don't mind reading the textbook you'll ace the class easy.

3.0
3.0
PS1
Jun 16, 2011

If you read the textbook and take notes and study you will get an A. Simple as that. But if you don't lie reading don't take the class. Also, no homework...ever...just read, your entire grade will consist of three tests (there are four total but he drops the lowest).

2.0
5.0
POLIT2675
Sep 1, 2011

More than half class drop off. The test are totally different from the text, and his little stories are boring. He is an old man and i don't blame it but we as students need fresh teachers not boring ones. I met a guy and i saw him coping from a paper which he got from i don't know other wise he wouldn't pass the class. Im currently taking a dif. 1

2.0
4.0
PS1
Feb 12, 2012

Read the books in detail.Also,listen&remember all the thing he say because those may be the answer of a question in your exams(but he wouldnt emphasize/repeat). His exams are more based on his lecture than book, but still not enough to get A.To get A, you need luck. So....good luck!!

2.0
5.0
POLI1
Jun 8, 2012

Widman sucks.. his tests are based on what he says and not the book itself.. he has no clear teaching method..he just rambles alot and you have to pay attention to what he says and for tests..too many questions and you realy really need a lot of luck

2.0
2.0
POLY2630
Jul 5, 2012

This instructor does not give homework and offers a lot of extra credit opportunities. Tests are kinda of difficult, but they are multiple choice and he does not believe in finals. He takes the best 3 out of 4 exams and gives you a grade from that. As long as you take notes and read the book and study based on the study guide you can pass.

2.0
3.0
PS1
Sep 18, 2012

Very boring. took the 3 hour class and felt like 24 hours. His lectures and readings had nothing to do with the test. I do not recommend

1.0
5.0
POLI1
Nov 4, 2012

He rambles ALOT!! very boring teacher repeats himself ALOT. Test are hard and have nothing to do with hes lectures. WOULD NOT RECOMMEND!

1.0
5.0
POLSC2609
Jan 15, 2013

ABSOLUTELY WORST CLASS EVER! rambles the entire time and tests are about 10% of the material he teaches in-class and his study guides are ridiculous. moves from chapter to chapter randomly.

3.0
1.0
POLISCI1
Apr 1, 2013

If you pay attention/ take notes and read the book you should be fine. Mr. Widman does go off topic while lecturing. Doesn't really assign homework but just says to read outside class. The tests dictate grade.

1.0
5.0
POLI12610
May 28, 2013

WORST CLASS EVER! i was soo upset because i thought he would be a great prof, but turned out to be HORRIBLE. i do not recommend him to anyone. i came to class everyday,did not learn anything! sooo boring, talks to much, and i ended up withdrawing, SMH!!

1.0
4.0
POLSCI1
Jun 17, 2013

DO NOT TAKE. He rambles the whole class and goes way off topic. Test are extremely hard based of text books only. I thought I was going to love the class and but was mistaken.

4.0
2.0
POLI1
Jun 21, 2013

This class is relatively easy to pass. There was no homework. We took 4 multiple choice tests and were graded on our best 3. He does ramble about his own life sometimes and the class in general can be pretty boring, but as long as you write down what he writes on the board and read your text book you should be able to pass just fine.

1.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Jun 24, 2013

Oh Goodness DO NOT I repeat DO NOT take this professor. I have no idea why he is the head of the Poli Sci dept. Most horrible teacher I've ever taken. The only thing I learned is that he went to Berkley, which didn't help his teaching at ALL!! Take Professor PJ. Go to the dean and demand he teaches! He is the BEST Poli Sci El camino has.

1.0
5.0
POLITICALSCIEN
Jul 25, 2013

Wow, most ridiculous teacher at El camino. Just talks about nonsense for 15 minutes about his life everyday then teaches just babbling on.

3.0
2.0
POLI1
Oct 16, 2013

I don't see why people claim this a difficult class. Stay up with reading and note everything that goes up on the board and you're bound to pass.

2.0
5.0
PS
Nov 10, 2013

I've had a 4.0 my entire time at El Camino as an engineering major and this teacher has easily been the worst teacher I've ever had. He's interesting and for the most part his class wasn't that bad but his tests are ridiculous. I got an A on ONE test and that was with his 15 extra points. DO NOT RECOMMEND. Try someone else or take it online.

1.0
5.0
POLITICALSCIEN
Nov 20, 2013

This Teacher is very nice, however his class is so difficult. You're basically teaching the class to yourself by reading the whole textbook. His test guides are so broad they are no help. The questions on the test are very specific based on the little details of the book, it's RIDICULOUS! I would not recommend this teacher to anyone.

1.0
5.0
POLI1
Nov 21, 2013

Worse Professor ever!!have never withdrew a class until his class. talks about non sense did not learn anything before withdrawing.

1.0
4.0
POLSCI1
Nov 25, 2013

this man is rediculously lost not at all helpful and he would rather be a comedian then an educator even with a book, notes and his version of a "study guide" passing his test is still difficult take at your own risk!!!

4.0
3.0
POLYSCI
Sep 21, 2014

The poor ratings are probably from the lazy students that don't come back after break. He IS tough and you must know a vast amount of info for the tests. Lectures are interesting and relate to the current state of affairs. He gives a study guide for every test, so if you don't read or study then you deserve to fail. Must EARN your grade.

1.0
5.0
PS1
Nov 21, 2014

His surfy guide was not useful at all his exams 80 questions had bad language and attitude don't recommend

3.0
4.0
POLISCI
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 13, 2014

Read the material and understand it. Memorize terms and understand what they mean. The test questions are multiple choice but are not easy. I did very well but every test I doubted myself. Not for anyone who slacks. I like him though... pretty funny guy.

4.0
3.0
POLISCI
Grade: B+
Jan 15, 2015

I liked the class a lot. Class was not that hard, go online and do the practice tests from the textbook do well on those, read the book and and you will do well on his tests. I was actually interested in the subject though but I thought he was a great teacher. He helped write the book. I would have gotten an A but I slacked off on 1 exam.

1.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 7, 2015

He talks all day long about his beloved Hermosa Beach .... No one cares.

1.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 20, 2015

Don't take his class!!!

2.0
5.0
POLISCI1
May 2, 2015

Professor Widman is a difficult teacher and individual. He does not work with you, so make sure that you don't need to take any exams early. Lectures are useless, you can pass the class by reading the chapters assigned and then taking the test. There are no quizzes, just tests which is good. Would not suggest you take him, find another professor.

2.0
5.0
POLISCI1
Grade: C+
May 19, 2015

Prof. Widman is an old man.. who blabbers away each day. He usually talks about his family, and a lot of not so relate able subjects. His tests are really hard its mostly like 80% textbook based, and 16% lecture, 14% current events. Try not to take him if you don't have time to read 3-4 chapters (20 pages chapter) in 2 - max 3 weeks.

3.0
4.0
POLI1
Grade: C
May 19, 2015

He doesn't take role, he passes around a role sheet. So the first 10 or so minutes of class can be missed with no repercussion. Other than that, hes a very insightful guy, he cusses a lot, he claims to be the former mayor of Hormosa Beach. Not a bad class but not the easiest.

4.0
1.0
POLISCI1
Grade: A
Jul 5, 2015

Best Professor in El Camino

3.0
4.0
POLISCI
Grade: A+
Jul 11, 2015

Do not expect information to be spoon fed in this class, you have to work for it. Getting an A is not impossible. Read the chapters and skim through it one last time to study for exam. There's about 70+ questions on his exam and only grades up to 60 question so expect to have some extra credit. No essays, just exam based.

1.0
4.0
POLI1
Grade: Audit/No Grade
Dec 9, 2015

His Style : Lecture - He does all the talking, No power points 4 tests in total and are about 75 questions long . Grades 60 room for EC. (EXAM based grade) drops worse 1. He's an OLDER professor. Attendance is a must. You have to beg him for help if you want it and be very assertive since he's very direct. The book is a must. Hope this helps

4.0
2.0
POLI1
Grade: A
Feb 10, 2016

In order to do well in this class, you have to pay attention to the lectures as he adds questions on the test related to the lectures. Most of the questions from the test come from the book, and some from lectures. Read chapter and take practice quiz online. He knows his subject and is very clear in his lectures of what is expected from you.

4.0
3.0
POLI101
Grade: B+
Mar 23, 2016

Read and you'll pass.

2.0
5.0
POL1
Mar 31, 2016

Lectures focused, he doesn't even mention somethings he puts on a test. Not much of a clear instructor.

2.0
4.0
POLI101
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 5, 2016

This teacher is not so great honestly. I've tried asking for help after lecture but he bitterly makes obvious that he doesn't want to help. Some stuff I saw in the exams I don't even remember hearing in the lecture.

3.0
3.0
POSCI1
Grade: B
Jun 5, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Pay very close attention to his lecture if you want to pass. Your grade is based on only 4 test. He will drop your lowest test. There is no power point presentations, very little writing on the board, he is a very verbal person. I would recommend sitting front row.

5.0
1.0
POLI12612
Grade: A
Jul 19, 2016
Would take again

L. Widman is excellent. I really enjoyed attending his class & I kind of miss it. He gave me real life knowledge of the world around us and country we live in. The class was incredibly easy but it did require a lot of reading, but the textbook is great so worth it. He is a skilled speaker and incredibly organized. A, if you put in the effort.

1.0
3.0
POLISCI1
Grade: B
Sep 27, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Very Boring! Dont really learn much unless you read the book at home.

Tough Grader
1.0
3.0
POL1
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Feb 15, 2017
Wouldn't take again

4 tests and 1 extra credit assignment. That's it. No final. Your grade will tank if you fail a test. He lectures based on his experiences in the 1990's (or even earlier) political scene which is actually pretty cool especially if you are into history. The reason this sucks is that the material on his tests have nothing to do with the lecture topics

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

71%

Textbook Required

90%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

86% confidence
Based on 12 grades
Most common grades:
A (4)
Drop/Withdrawal (4)
B (3)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(3)C(2)D(4)F(0)A-/B+(2)
Based on 18 reported grades
A: 4
Drop/Withdrawal: 4
B: 3
B+: 2
Common Tags
Tough Grader (1)
TEST HEAVY (1)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (1)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.42 avg change
Mar
May
Jun
Jul
Sep
Feb
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

POLSCIEN

5.0

(1)

POLYSCI1HTP

5.0

(1)

POLISCIE

5.0

(1)

PSCI6832

5.0

(1)

POLSC2615

5.0

(1)
+43 more courses
Difficulty by Course

POLYSCI1

5.0

POLISCIHONORS

5.0

POS1

5.0

PS01

5.0

POLI2660

5.0

Similar Professors