4.3
Quality3.0
Difficulty100%
Would Retake568
Reviews100%
Would Retake
568
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
568 total ratings5
408
4
71
3
41
2
19
1
29
What Students Say
“Sometimes difficult to get a seat because about 100 extra people come to the class that aren't in it, just because he's that good”
ECON202 - 5.0 rating“It's extremely entertaining”
ECON102 - 5.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
44%
Textbook Required
98%
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Predicted Grade
B-
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Improving
+0.21 avg changeRatings by Course
101102
5.0
(3)ECON100
5.0
(1)ECN101102
5.0
(1)ECON201
5.0
(1)ECON1
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
ECONOMICS
5.0
101
4.0
HIST101
4.0
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3.4
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3.3
Reviews (299)
Just go to the lectures as a brake. Not a good Professor if you want a good mark!!!!!
The most amazing teacher I have ever seen. He is enthusiastic and entertaining and teaches in a really practical manner. Everything you learn in that course is useful for any career. He also uses real-world examples for pretty much everything.
Best Prof ever. His lectures are fantastic, the course notes are top notch, and I used the textbook once. He is funny, serious, and smart. The greatest thing is that he wants every one of his students to do well (that's 10% of all UW)
Lectures are amazing; gives advice on topics from how to get a job to improving your sex life. Exams are killer.
one of the best lecturers i've ever had. -- has his own text/course notes - tests entirely from them. Extra optional text book = completely useless and not required
Quite possibly the best prof at UW. I thoroughly enjoyed the class and learned a LOT. The exams are very difficult though. I highly suggest you do the bonus assignments as they are not too hard and you get an extra 6% overall.
Simply: Amazing.
Best Lecturer at UW. Funny and interesting material. I'd go to his lectures just for interest sake. awesome!
pretty entertaining prof, although doesn't know as much as he pretends to. Of all econ 101 sections best go to his, becuase he makes otherwise horribly slow classes quite entertaining. Pretty easy too, and his exams are quite straightforward.
Long lectures but he did a good job in making it enjoyable.
I learned more about Economic from Larry than anyone else I've had. Really engaging, makes a tough subject come alive, and has a true gift for connecting with students.
Very fun guy, but don't take his class if you are in ECON, you will not be prepared for 200 level courses. Very fun class if you aren't in economics.
No Comments
good guy. But unlike others, i didn't learn much from his lectures even tho i took notes and was very attentive. Difficult tests. Not an easy prof.(i got a B+ in both classes)
Three words. Full of****. Can anyone shovel anymore BS than this guy?? Honestly, for entertainment...good...for content, HORRIBLE! Does not know Econ himself, unqualified to teach to others. His book sucks too.
He is brilliant!! I can listen to 680 news and understand what is going on. If this prof seems hard, its because he expects you to prepare before class so that you can learn more than just the theory in his lectures. I found it a very practical course.
Awesome prof! Sitting through his class is like going to a movie! Watch out for any snacks you bring to class though... he might steal them!
The best prof I've had. Loved going to his classes.
Larry Smith is a great teacher. He also gives good head. - Charles Baker
he is the best lecturer u'll ever come across in your life.
Larry is an excellent public speaker. But, don't forget, so was Hitler!!! He is quite abnoxious, and loves himself a little too much...
Great orator, but lengthy on simple topics.
Always entertaining, but his flow charts are inscrutable. Go to the lectures for fun; read the text if you actually want to learn anything.
The Best
THE BEST ECON PROF EVER! Every ECON prof I've had after him has only been a disappointment. Larry teaches because he enjoys it, and not for the money. Classes are FUN and informative! Very fair in testing. Take his class . . . you won't regret it!
He's using you, he's evil, and he's not going to help you if you're going on in Economics. Arts students beware! He likes the engineers and mathies, you are God's lost children
Although he's great speaker, he's not a great teacher. It was difficult to understand and learn from him when he's speaking too damn fast. I'm disappointed.
One of the best profs of the University. Knows his stuff and is entertaining about teaching it. It's true he loves the mathies and engineers and is not very theoretical. But you learn loads and get super entertained.
He is an awful prof, but I hate him so much.I don't know how to study for his exams. The text book is uselss. You MUST go to his lecute or you like to fail the course. However, he talks too much **** on his lecture and make it so boring.
A man of talent and capital.....
his enthusiasm for the subject borders on scary, but overall a very good prof
Brilliant. I scored high, but you have to pay attention, and you have to like his style.
Greatest teacher of all time! Smart, funny, inspiring, and energetic! He teaches in a way that makes learning super fun!
talks to fast
A few so-so faces? Huh? We're talking about LArry Smith, the ECON prof?! Amazing guy. Arrogan and cocky to extreme, but that's his style. Gotta love him ladies and gentlemen.
worst prof I've ever had
Overrated because he is an outstanding speaker. "Teaches" using anecdotes and rhetoric. He should be giving motivational talks like Tony Robbins, not teaching at a university.
larry just a somewat entertaining prof ... (since i'm use to the stiffs in ECE he is refreshing).. but at the end he just a bit arrogant and spends too much time driving in tired points with his over exagerated stories to keep the lil' kids entertained
Tells too many fn stories that you got to remember for the exam. Course notes are useless
Hard course and pretty hard exams
Greatest course ever
WARNING WARNING DANGER DANGER - best prof ever - his style and delivery are amazing - keeps you on your toes all class, actually teaches you useful knowledge.
amazing prof good luck finding a more enthusiatic and entertaining prof for a course take these courses with no one else!
Great teacher, but be warned, he doesn't go through the material very thoroughly in class, he expects you to do that yourself on your own time. Class time is mainly for explaining WHY things are important, HOW they fit into real life, and what not.
Best university experience so far. Each lecture is like going to the theatre. To bad he doesn't teach upper year classes.
The best prof I've ever had. Not in any way exaggerated in his stories, helps you more in real life than any other course possibly could
Great speaker. He keeps you awake during his 3 hour lecture, but make sure you take good notes and don't study from the book but rather from his course notes and his lectures. Tough exam.
amazing prof
Best course I have ever taken. He teaches you more than you need to know and you stay awake through his lectures. Don't miss any of them, you'll regret it, exams are hard, but he is always ready to listen to your ideas.
This guy explains things in ways that people are able to understand. He has lots of cool stories and makes everything about economics seem interesting. The course is a must take!
Amazing prof, the most enthusiasm I have ever seen at this school. Every student of UW should take one of his classes. You wont want to miss a single lecture
Great Prof, My best ever. Don't even buy the textbook. Larry, you're GOD
I would've never thought that an Econ course could be this much fun!! Every lecture you learnt something about how this world works, about history, about politics and about human nature. It opens up your mind to the inner workings of society. Awesome prof
His lectures inspire me! His intimidating personality makes him sort of unapproachable. Students line up during break just to get a word w/ him. I love his stories & his monkey-like ways (esp. the Buffy the cow story & his conflict w/ airport security).
Great Prof, Highly recommended. His course should be "must" for all Waterloo students.
Larry === GOD (do i need to say more?)
He sucks, terrible teacher
Brilliant prof, who is there for no reason other than his love of teaching. If you listen closely, you will get far more out of his classes than just the curriculum.
Wow, simply brilliant. Amazing professor. A would-be painful 3 hr lecture made enjoyable.
Wow. Larry stands as a shining example of how prof should teach as to all the other incompetent profs at UW. He is funny, energetic, and most important of all, loves to teach. But think for yourself too, he is just there to give you the rope.
he's a great teacher.. you can never get bored in his class.. hopefully he's not a hard teacher..
He is way better than the business teachers in WLU, at least his 3 hrs class is more interesing than the 80 mins business class
A true inspiration
Impressed by his ability to relate course topics to everthing from Microsoft & IBM to beer & sex! We're talking REAL LIFE applications, NOT boring definitions! He is also helpful after class. However, his tests are difficult and can stunt your average!
great lectures; having trouble taking notes because I don't want to miss any part of the lecture
WAY overrated. He teaches first year for a reason.
Claims he knows everything. Far too big of an ego. Asks questions on exams that he's never gone over, and when you ask questions about them, he calls you stupid. Insults the class frequently.
Very interesting lectures. Fun guy. Dont take his courses looking for an easy mark.
The best prof I've had to date and probably will ever have. His lectures are both hilarious and intensely useful and his coursenotes are a guide for life.
If you are a UW student and you don't know Larry Smith, you should shoot yourself
If you have a deep passionate love for economics, you will love larry smith. But if you are someone like me and taking this for an Arts requirement and thought it would be like high school, you will not like larry cuz he is difficult to understand and his applications do not interest me at all!
Considering I thought myself prepared for Economics as I took it through High School and wanted to major in it, I found Larry smith's concepts to be a tad bit difficult. Although he talks about life and sucess, he really teaches no thoery at all. He expects you to be naturally smart methinks.
Why is there so much hype about this prof!!!???
Requirements: sense of humour, 100% attendance. Don't take his class if you want an easy grade, but if you want to learn more than just theories and equations. He differentiates himself from other profs, will relate everything to what's going on now. Suggestions: write quickly as he lectures.
Just Blah Blah in his class. Does not teach but acts as if he is on Broadway. If you want to learn about Economics and not suffer from weak base in 2nd and 3rd year, DO NOT take his class. Nice guy but teaches more philosophy than economics. Serious students should stay away from this class.
Good lecturer, makes economics both fun and funny.
hay guies if you love fun then take his class,if you love economics take his class but if you want to pass exaims dont take his class, his course notes sucks you will find 70% old dated articals in his course notes and he dont go through text book,be carefull for exaims those are very hard.
He's the best prof- there's no question about that. His exams are not that bad. When I took Econ102, the class average was like low 80s.
BEST. PROF. EVAR. Seriously, though, he's not as tough as a lot of people say. Just be sure you understand the material thoroughly (if you don't, he'll answer your questions in depth during office hours) and make sure to take notes on the in class examples!
Ok, i understand economonic principles, they aren't THAT difficult, but when taking Larry Smith's course, i think i lost brain cells trying to understand what the eff he was blathering about!! This guy is crazy and his exams are HARD AS HELL!!
Razor sharp intelligence. Econ 101 concepts are pretty simple. In reality, he spends little time covering the basic concepts and instead fills his lectures with his own economic insight. Students claim his exams are hard, but if you're in engineering, you'll think they're a gift :-)
Larry is an awsome person but his classes are sometimes boring because he gets off topic. Be willing to stay after class and get help if you need it; if you don't, be prepared to not understand anything because the textbook doesn't help.
Can somebody tell him to teach some economics and not philisophy. Althoygh class intersting did not learn much about economics.
TAKE THIS COURSE!!! Reasons: 1. Interesting 2. Learn more than just eco 3. 'Reference sheet'... if you can write small, then it's great!... I've heard that you're dead if you want to go on in eco, but take it.
wow Larry is just awesome thats all there is to it. They should change his course to something like 101L because you don't learn the same things and it's a weak economic base. Definetly if you are in Math, Engineering, Accounting, SE and something else he bashes TAKE THE CLASS IT WILL HELP, He Roc
what happens to a mind after years of taking an idealistic equilibrium too seriously? larry smith
Very good prof, I really enjoyed attending lectures, very hard MC exams tho.
Should be mandatory for Engineers and CS. Great motivational speaker when it comes to taking control of your career. Artsies: if you wnat to be able to learn from a textbook, go somewhere else.
garbage class, don't waste your time. for an elective, it's better to take a course that's meaningless AND easy
Just about the most informative class I've ever taken. I don't think I've ever learned as much as I have in less than 4 months. He actually made ECON fun... bizarre eh? Awesome Larry, Keep it up.
Larry Smith is my new hero. Im a CSer, and never thought econ coulda been so useful in my life. I cant imagine having left University with taking this course. Smith literally changed my life, incredible prof, very helpful if approached, i actually looked FORWARD to the 3 hr lectures.
look eccentric with his weird gesture and speaking style; however I don't feel that he emphasizes strong enough on the fundamental concepts, and his offer of real world applicatons for someone like me who read Fortune and Business Week regularly isn't that impressive at all.
Stay away! I have a feeling he gets a power trip just with the ability to take 3 hours of people's time.
By far the best prof at waterloo. Somehow everything he says is funny, yet he still manages to teach so clearly. If you take his course, dont buy the textbook. After the clarity of his lectures, the book will only confuse you.
Entertaining but totally useless. Spends hours rambling about "matrix" and "matrix master" without explaining what he means. Instead of pointless and confusing analogies and stories that don't go anywhere he should rather actually teach some material.
instead of having a 10 minute break in between two 1:20 minute lectures, there should be a 10 minute lecture in between two 1:20 minute breaks...
Unfair exams! Super long lectures!!
Makes the class hard for no reason, doesn't connect his little speeches with the material.
has anyone read his website? he claims to have taught more then 10% of waterloo grads. so what? he was the only dope teaching 101 that term.
A very interesting professor to say the least. The CLASS is very fun, as Smith tries to entertain the students and keep them attentive. However, there are many times where he uses very outlandish metaphors to describe the UNDERLYING CONCEPTS OF ECONOMICS. Hardcore studying is a MUST!
this prof is overrated!
longggg lectures...irrelevant examples....hard exams....
I don't understand why is there all those hypes about this prof? He overcomplicates simple concepts, gives arcane exams and is overconfident about his ability. Can be eccentric and funny at certain times but by no mean is he the God of ECON !!It is even laughable to think that way.
WHOA, what happened? How does this guy have such a good rating? Stay far far away, boring lectures, hard exams, ponitless material! One of the worst profs ive had at waterloo, and thats saying something!
boring, hard, and not a very nice person. not helpful outside of class at all.
What sense does it make when you go to class, you do the readings, research his stats and all that other****, you study over 8 hours for an exam and you still have to guess on his multi choice on the midterms? That is unheard of in any other class. He's ridiculously hard, DONT TAKE HIS CLASS!!
I don't understand the recent string of bad comments about Larry Smith - if you did bad on his midterms, I'm sorry, you just don't understand the material. Period. The real reason he's gold is that he infuses the theory with real-world examples, instead of relying just on dry textbook graphs.
What's the use of teaching micro-economics if he can't even properly define utility? He doesn't even know about the current research in emotion in the field of cognitive science, which I'm sorry Larry, is directly relevent.
I worship this guy, must take both of his econ courses.
i just rated this guy last time and now my rating was deleted!?!? are you guys PROTECTING this guy!?!? terrible teacher, im warning you all now
He's the ultimate Waterloo experience and makes you fall in love with Economics. His lectures are like a three-hour thought-provoking masterpiece of a movie. You can't memorize your way through his classes, he makes you think, so don't expect an easy "101" ride like the unsatisfied customers below.
This guy is supposibly a legend around waterloo. After the class, I really don't see what the big deal is. He talks a good game, and if you don't mind spending your tuition money to be "entertained", take his course. But there are much more interesting courses out there.
Smith knows your darkest fears, will do everything in his power to bring you over to the dark side. Unless you are the One you likely will be. I thought I was but I'll never look back. Best experience in a classrom at UW I've had outside the Math faculty. His exams are not easy. Listening is key.
I felt very unprepared for my other courses that involved the material he "taught" Very confusing-concepts easy, but he just makes it more difficult. Examples very Techy-I had problems relating-overall I highly disliked him. Took 102 with Vaughn, mark went up 12%
I don't know why people think his class is hard. Even if the midterms are harder, you get 6 bonus PERCENTS. If you are too lazy to do them, too bad (2 parapraghs for 6 percents, how lazy can you get?) Also, he always stay an hour after class to help, so you can't complain about not understanding.
Just bad... lectures seemed to be only entertaining to himself.
worst course ever
He makes you interested in the subject. His classes are extremely entertaining and interesting. Encourages people to think. An awesome person. Very approachable. Very intelligent, Excellent Excellent Excellent lecturer. Probably the best in Waterloo. Not a big fan of his exams though.
Brilliant, wealthy, and has more sense than most senior investors. Attend class if only to gain wisdom. He's comically sinical, covers material to various degrees (some with intimate depth, others hardly), but in general he's of genuine interest just because he teaches 'why' to know, not just what.
If you're just looking for an easy A, don't take the econ with Larry Smith. BUT if you really want to know your stuff, he's the man you're looking for. I can guarantee you, he's one of the most amazing persons you'll ever meet in your entire life.
He's arrogant, self-centered, and his little cult following of artsies love to fed his already massive ego. Big thumbs down from me though, I was expecting a lot more considering the reputation this guy has. The course is a breeze if you're even slightly technically inclined. It's like Stats Lite.
LARRY SMITH'S EXAMS ARE OVERRATED. If you actually read the course notes and make a reference sheet, you will do well. For Econ 102, I went to his lectures, spent 5 hours prep for each midterm, 10 hours prep for final, 5 hours on bonus assignments, got 92%. Professor Smith stays past midnight after lectures. You will be glad you saught personal hel
Larry Smith knows my darkest fear? Ooooooh!!!! Have you watched too much batman begins lately??? please people don't make such a big deal about larry. He could be quite entertaining but he is not the ultimate source of learning economy. I had high expectation before but turned out I found nothing extraordinary about this INSTITUTION.
Very good prof. Straight out of a movie about Harvard or Amherst. He teaches you to search for directions in a career, investment or education as opposed to constantly following them. His cynicism definately makes the class as much entertaining as interesting. Highly reccomend taking his course.
Anyone who thinks that Larry is difficult doesn't belong at Waterloo. If you do the work you are supposed to do, getting over 90% easy. His lectures are very interesting and well-prepared. I am in Actsci, but taking first year ECON with Larry inspired me to do an ECON minor. Larry sets the bar that all other ECON profs are compared to.
I had high expectations, and Larry Smith lived up to all of them. His teaching style is unlike most profs - he likes to tell stories and relate the material to history and current events. He also uses a lot of movie metaphors. Really brings the material to life.
Excellent prof., course notes not the greatest. Exams = very hard compare to other Econ 101/102 profs. Nice person, interesting topic and excellent stories/examples.
Amazing professor, in every way.
larry smith is eccentric and special, but his lectures just don't live up to the hype. maybe instead of giving one 3 hours lecture he should change that to 3 50 min lectures - that way he might improve his teaching quality.
No Comments
This is an outstanding professor who is clearly capable of articulating thoughts, and teaching concepts in a tangible fashion. His notes sometimes suffer from layout design, and you have to attend class to fill extra information to decipher the notes, but he is a treat to listen to. A gem at Waterloo.
This guy is a genius! His experiences as an economist gives you not only lots of insights to NA economy, but also future career strategies to ponder upon. Just go and sit in at one of his 101/102 lectures and you'll see. you won't regret taking his course.
Nice lectures, hard exams.
Very smart, very witty and very engaging. His three hour night classes go down surprisingly easy, especially with a drink or some grub (which he allows)
wait til u see the final exam lol...
He is possibly the best teacher in the history of teaching. He has a deep understanding about economics, loves teaching, puts in a lot of effort, makes students interested, cares about students' future, gives relevant and useful examples, extremely creative and smart, and top of all he is a VERY GOOD lecturer. We need more profs like Larry.
best teacher in the history???? are you kidding me??? can Larry Smith be more overrated ????
Lectures are vague, and you are expected to remember every last minor detail that might be casually mentioned in class. His exams are crazy hard; only take this class from him if you are a wizard at guessing for multiple choice.
As long as you pay attention, most of the multiple choice is obvious... and you get to use a reference sheet, and there's only two exams. Not to mention he's a great and interesting lecturer.
I have high expectation on him, but...as u can see...take his course only if u dun care what are the main points.
OK, He IS overrated. He doesnt teach econ, he teaches LARRY. Hes hypnotic though, every other sentence he says could be on a quote wall, never met a more charismatic man. too many students idolize him too much, they dont internalize the material and judge for themselves, only digest his comments. He just makes common sense seem like the M-theory
One of the best profs I've ever had. I'd never taken a business course before, but he made it so interesting that I really enjoyed the class. Midterms are difficult, exam not as bad. If you take Microec, take it with Larry, you won't regret it!
Larry Smith is an awesome prof. His classes are really intresting, and informative. I never took any business courses, and was never intrested it in before either, i am more of a science person, but his courses were the only ones i looked forward to each week. I switched my schedule and took 102 before 101, just to get him twice!! u wont regret it
His lectures are awful; they only loosely follow the coursenotes (although he claims they follow directly). His coursenotes are not written in sentences, or even point form. There are words randomly placed about. If you'd like to spend more time figuring out what the coursenotes say that you spend trying to learn it, then Larry Smith is for you.
The guy does not explain anything. He only talks about world updates without expalaining what they really mean. He might be a good prof for some people who have a clear understanding of economic terms. WE KNOW HE IS SMART AND KNOWS WHATS GOING ON, but we need to understand before we know.
to me, the "yoda" only relates commonsense in a funny and vivid, one hardly get anything inpiring rather than some cheap laugh like "the oral(oval) office" or useless updates etc... i rather have Lewis Black be my prof in that sense...
Amazing prof. He rocks my socks!
He is just one of those profs that make econ harder than it needs to be
Amazing prof! Catches ur attention (u'll never fall asleep!) with his entertaining stories; he's hilarious, thoughtful, cute, and VERY intelligent. Many ppl (& myself) have learned more from his courses than they've learned from any other course. His purpose is to prepare u w/ what u need to know so that you can go out & find the info u need.
Very animated and interesting professor. Keeps your attention for three hours and makes you feel like you're learning valuable stuff. Sometimes gets carried away and a little egotistical.
Overall a good prof. Exams are hard.
Entertaining prof. Teaches big picture concepts. I later realized I didn't learn much when I took an introductory econ couse in grad school. Be FOREWARNED: On some true/false questions he does not want you to evaluate the trueness/falsity of a statement. Rather he'll quote a theory and change some words (making it false according to his logic).
Once you get used to his exams, they're not that difficult especially with the reference sheet you're allowed to make (I find that making the reference sheet is actually more useful that the sheet itself on the exam as you review everything). He also teaches economics concepts in a very creative way, and will keep you awake for all three hours.
enough said...he is simply THE MAN!!
Awesome.
Bow down before the master!
Great orator, but oversimplifies many complex issues that could be expressed at face value.
Nothing to say that hasn't already been said... he's awesome.
Without a doubt one of the best professors period, he breathes life into a class that would otherwise be boring and sleep-inducing. Were it not for the difficulty of his exams, he would likely be a universal favorite.
larry smith is da man! go wal-mart
The best prof at UW. m/c exams aren't that bad but you need to pay attention and listen during lectures since its based completely on that. Good luck if you miss a class.
The BEST PROF I EVER I HAD. class isn't that hard but that's only compared to my other courses(math and physics). YOU ABSOLUTLEY SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE BECAUSE IT IS VERY IMPORTANT. I like how he draws on history, politics and his many references to CANADA. You will learn a lot about USA CHINA SOME INDIA and EU. Very interestingly taught. TAKE IT!
I was not acually in his class because my program deems that I take all econ courses at WLU. However I think I showed up for Larry's a lot more than for my own. He is an excellent lecturer: I go there for the show, like many others. He draws on real life exaples, both current and historical in order to better explain the theory.
What can I say that hasn't already been said already. He's easily the best lector that I've ever had. Amazing speaker that will keep your interest without a problem. Everything in this course is applied so you'll hear lots of interesting real life stories. Can be hard if you like to learn from a textbook because you will need to listen to do well.
Best prof ever. Didnt skip a single class. Dnt worry about your mark...just learn as much as possible ..will come in handy in real life situations.
Best prof. VERY useful material presented - I got my current job thanks to material he covered. 2 mid-terms; 1 final. VERY fair questions - if there's a prob with a Q, everyone gets it - but HARD exams! You get to make a reference sheet for each exam. WRITE DOWN ALL HIS EXAMPLES. You WILL need them. 6% bonus possible. Answers questions THOROUGHLY.
everyone seems to adore smith! i agree that he's an entertaining prof and has good stories and also relates econ concepts very well...but he makes ECON 101 waay too difficult... some concepts are so easy to grasp, yet he finds a way to make it TOUGH... HORRIBLE course...never taking Econ in my life... larry traumatized me, haha
He has a different teaching method then most students are used too. Instead of reading from a textbook he teaches the topics briefly then gives real-life examples. His exams are harder then usual since you cannot study for them but must understand the course material to apply to the questions. Great motivational speaker in regards to life.
Larry Smith is definitely one of the best lecturers I have met so far. He is a great orator and captivates the class' interest to great effect. His stories and scenarios will be of definite help in real life. His exams are not too difficult if you know the material well; of course, do the bonus assignments as well, as they boost marks a lot.
He's amazing
His teaching style is unconventional and perfect for those who have done Econ in high school and would like a different experience. While people who have not done econ frequently appreciate his non-Artsie points of view, others find him hard to follow since he uses many analogies. If you're a textbook person, skip this course, but it's very good.
SMITH IS GOD! Because of him I transfered from CS to Econ and don't regret it. He really put a love of Economics in me that I am very very grateful for.
Larry Smith is legendary at UW, and deservedly so. I've never seen a class break into applause more times in one lecture than in his ECON 101 coure.
"Amazing" HA HA!! Wait until you get to 201 and 202. You will see how "amazing" he is. You will see how little you learn with him. He is all about talks and impressing first year kids. Those of you who wrote he is amazing, come back in a few years and let us know if he still is. Definitely NOT!!!
Asome prof. Just love his examples in calss even though the exam dont cover any thing feom the book only from his lectures and the questions are hard with each question having multiple answer.
I took 101/102 with him. Some may not like his style of teaching, but I love that he uses so many analogies! I found it allowed you to understand the material better and actually apply it! To the people who say Smith doesn't teach what you need for other courses- I've taken 201 and 202 could understand it all.
Amazing teacher
Having taken Lau and attending Smith's lectures I have noticed a few significant differences. Smith's lectures are geared towards pragmatism (info directly relevant to real life/careers) whereas the other professors are far more theoretical/textbook based. Engineers/Math should take Smith, Econ students - take the others but audit Smith. Best Prof.
great
He was very overconfident with his material, but could back up all of his information. His examples seemed inappropriate but very suitable.
Super lectures. This course is almost a freebie since the lectures are so entertaining and there are no assignments. Plus the material is interesting. I highly recommend taking this course as an elective although it might not be as good for economics majors since the course is very self-contained.
Super professor... that's all I can say~
Great lecturer! He really knows his stuff. Lectures are always interesting. Although... the exams are hard and tricky...
Taking Econ 102 with Larry in my 4B term I can tell you he's the best prof I've seen in UW. He's very entertaining and teaches students *practical* material. Even if it's to learn great presentation skills you must take a course with Larry Smith!
The only prof who can keep me awake for a 3 hr lecture. Highly recommended. You have to go to lecture if you want to do well. Multiple choice exam might be tricky, but you get to bring a reference sheet, and you can get 6 bonus marks by finding mistakes in newspapers.
Exams are really tough!!
Fantastic professor. I can say without hyperbole that econ 101 and 102 are probably the most important courses I will take in my life. Excellent lecturer, hilarious, full of energy. Teaches practical and meaningful material. Highly, highly recommended.
Absolutely amazing professor. Excellent lectures, uses historical and modern day examples to illustrates the various principles of microeconomics. Fair exams! Out of the econ profs for first year, take his 101 and 102 courses. Based on poor ratings of the other econ profs I don't think they would necessarily prepare you better for later courses
Amazing prof. If you take any other prof for ECON 101 and 102 you're cheating yourself. He makes things interesting and the knowledge you gain is applicable to the real world. His midterms are very tough but the final is much easier. He also has a bonus assignment system that is basically free marks if you take half an hour to do it (6 extra %).
Probably my favourite human being in the world. Hilarious, energetic, and captivating lecturer who teaches with stories that make the course material come alive, as well as illustrate its immense importance. No one who goes to Waterloo should be allowed to graduate without taking a Larry Smith econ course.
Amazingly engaging prof. You must take Econ with him, and no one else, or you will miss out! Lecture is like going to the movies once a week. Most interesting class I have taken so far.
This prof is way too hard with his midterms. Mainly because speaks/writes a lot differently than anyone does. Not enough office hours which are convenient for people with extremely hectic schedules.
Funny prof! His lectures are entertaining, but his course is tough! He makes a lot of sarcastic remarks, but he'll make it obvious since there are students who don't really listen and just write down everything. I'd recommend taking another ECON 102 course for credit, but attend his lectures for fun!
The best prof that I have seen.
The only prof to have kept my attention during a 3 hour lecture. If you go to UW, you you gotta take Larry's classes (econ 101/102)... he is just that good. The material is very useful too.
If you're at UW and don't take BOTH of Larry's classes (101 and 102), you're getting ripped off. Thought provoking, entertaining, and engaging professor who makes the material personally relevant to the students. Some people find the midterms hard; however, it's all multiple choice, so it's never truly that difficult. Sign up for his class ASAP.
The best prof I've had at UW. He is the reason I switched to Economics. Truly an incredible prof!
a boring one
Do not graduate from UW without taking one of his courses! He is the most engaging prof at this university, and you will see the relevance of his course material in day-to-day life. The exams are easy enough if you study the trends of data and have a good equation page
Very attractive professor with clear notes and a great teaching style. Often adds humour to his lessons to alleviate the stress of students.
i am not even enrolled in his classes, nor am i an econ student at UofW, but i still go to his 3 hour lectures with friends because he makes class and economics so fun and interesting!
I don't understand people who say his exams are hard, maybe they didn't go to class. You get to write a friggin *cheat sheet* AND you can get bonus marks! It's like, high school! Most people I know (engineers) got above 80.
Best prof i've had in my schooling career. 3 hour lectures go by fast, keeps student's interests and doesn't ask you the little details on exams. if you understand the concepts, you'll find his exams fair and fun. teaches to the point with good examples.
BEST PROF EVER HANDS DOWN!!!!
I dont know what the whole fuss about hard exams are. I dont know about finals, but the midterms were VERY fair. Excellent prof.
This guy is extremely entertaining and knows what he's talking about. He may be a little biased with his Keynesian-ism sometimes, but he's great nonetheless. His exams actually require thought. He's hilarious!
Best teaching professor at UW hands down. As long as you find Economics itself interesting, you will never get tired of hearing him lecture. They say his lectures are better than the movies, I certainly didn't disagree. It was an honour to be taught by this man. Exam wasn't hard, but requires you to really think. Bonus assignments are wonderful.
DONT LET HIM FOOL YOU into switching into economics. Unfortunately the rest of the profs at UW SUCK at economics. I loved his class and unless he teaches every single course in economics, I would avoid UW economics if possible.MUST get the full LS experience before u graduate. Free tshirts for every 1000th student he teaches(yes he actually counts)
Best prof at UW, hands down!!!
Yes, he is the master. Yes, he will challenge you. But yes, you can do really well as long as you understand his psyche (also, go to the econ clinics, they are amazing)
Great lecturer, keeps your attention for the duration of the 3 hours. (don't need coffed). His midterms are unorthodox in a sense that they're application questions instead of theory like every other prof. Recommended for those who want to learn stuff outside the textbook, since most ppl can read the textbook. Jokes are usually pretty funny.
Interesting class. Secretly just a nice guy (:
Very interesting classes, excellent teaching, and very applicable to real life. I actually looked forward to his lectures, even if it was around 3 hours long. Never for a moment was I bored. Just remember, reading the course notes over and over again and/or writing a long reference list won't help, you have to understand the concepts.
Easily the best prof at UW. Makes the topic extremely interesting and easy marks if you just attend class (got 100 in 101 and 98 in 102 w/ Larry). Exams are all MC and you get a cheat sheet.
Great prof. Highly recommended. Can't get away from macro views of things. Loved how we didn't need to buy a textbook. His notes were all we needed and to attend class. Entertaining stories. Very educational and informative.
Perhaps the best Prof on campus. He is amazingly knowledgeable in a wide range of subjects and has incredible vision for the future. Every lecture you leave feely inspired.
Uses lots of examples to explain topics. Still my favorite prof although I'm rating him now 7 years after I graduated. And I'm also comparing him against other profs at business school.
Amazing prof! very knowledgable. You're actually excited to go to night class - probly 30ppl in every class arent even enrolled and are just there for the "weekly briefing". Awesome.
he is a great lecturer for sure at UW...BUT...If you care for your mark do not ever take Larry SMith...because his midterms are very hard...and final is also very hard...He is very intesting and we had students coming to class who were not enrolled...but if you take him you are taking the biggest risk at the UW..
Larry is potentially the best Prof. I have had thus far (going into my fourth year). Truly amazing professor, very energetic and captivating. One of the very few professors who can keep me awake for three hours. I personally don't know any other professors who receive ovations at the end of their lectures.
Awesome and helpful. Always good to go for advice.
Fantastic Professor! Every lecture was more like a performance, and he did not disappoint. He has a very deep understanding of many topics, which add to his stories and euphemisms.
Don't buy into the hype. He is very entertaining for the first couple of weeks but it gets old quick. His tests are absolutely ridiculous, asking the most absurd off-topic questions that seldom make logical sense. Its hard to take notes in his lectures since he just talks about whatever he wants. Thinks highly of himself
Funny, easy to understand, challenging tests. Classes are practically mandatory.
his lectures are really really interesting but his midterms and finals are impossible. unless you really get it and i mean really...do not expect a high mark in his class..it's impossible to study for his tests
Most amazing teacher ever. His lectures are the only ones I actually go to. But his tests are pretty hard :(
Best professor I ever had! Even my friends like him.I'm only 2nd yr student, he's class is fairly easy and english is not my first language. If you didn't take his class&graduated, you're not educated about what you're getting yourself into! He's a true economist.BTW, he does talk like he's a smartass because he is to some degree.Judge him yourself
He?s the only teacher during my years in waterloo who has stand ovation when the semester over! I saw the same comment before I took this class didn?t believe, but it is true! I still can?t believe and I?m one that joined the applause. ^_^
He is a great lecturer and gives amazing examples of how economics shaped the globe, but his tests are impossible. The multiple choice are extremely difficult and ask very specific questions about minute details you 'should' have noticed during his 3hr rants. He's a super nice guy who's passionate about teaching, but his grading is ridiculous.
Great professor! Do not expect this class to be easy. You have to really study for it. But this easily could have been the most useful course I've ever taken and I majored in CS. I would recommend more senior students taking this class, the more mature you are the better you understand the value of the presented material.
Best teacher I've ever had, interesting and inspiring, loves talking to his students and can offer you some valuable career advice, take plenty of notes in class, understand the general picture and try the practice question and you'll do great
I just graduated, and in my 5 years at Waterloo Larry Smith was far and away the best prof I ever had. He's incredibly enthusiastic, captivating and intelligent. His class was virtually orgasmic and incredibly useful. I will hate myself forever if I don't go back and take another of his courses.
If you are in U of W and have not listened to him yet, you really should.
BEST PROFESSOR I HAVE EVER HAD! I usually fall asleep during lectures, but with Larry Smith's class, I was always awake (and I attended the 3 hour lectures), because he's an amazing prof. Some people say that his tests are impossible. NOT TRUE. If you attend the lectures (his tests are basically based on lectures) and study hard, you'll be fine,
most captivating prof, ever.
Larry Smith is amazing. He's the single best teacher I've had in 6 years so far of postsecondary school. It's impossible to be in his class and not pay attention. If you haven't been in his class, you've missed out on one of the best things in life.
His spies are everywhere.
innovative
Do not leave Waterloo before taking both 101 & 102 with Larry Smith. One of the top profs at UW. You need to move on from high school to University and to the real world and Larry will clearly help you do that. Its not an Econ class its a class on the world you live in. If you doubt this, go sit in once on one of his classes.
Show up to the lectures, take detailed notes and actually read the course notes. It takes very little time and the class is by far the most interesting I've taken in five years at Waterloo.
GOOODDDD!
I took this course not knowing anything about economics. His tests are hard, but they are fair. They're very applied, as is his style of teaching. This course is a must take, and the textbook cost is low, since they're his course notes.
The worlds smartest man. I will keep going to his lectures every year even though I am not in the class. He is hilarious, and I LOVE THE WAY HE TEACHES, it is like watching stand-up comedy but you learn at the same time.
As others have said, Larry Smith's ECON 101 and 102 should be taken by all Waterloo students. Don't settle for another prof, it's not the same course if he's not teaching it.
i attended every single one of his classes even though i wasn't enrolled. haha. very entertaining guy.
I'm surprised this guy doesn't have a major religion named after him, students are so devoted lol. Seriously though, truly exceptional prof.
Uncross your legs. Right hand off the mouse, left elbow off the desk. Stop touching your face with your left hand. Sit up straight. Ok, are you listening? Why are you not preregistered for this course? GO.
This man is a legend himself. His lectures are always full and a lot of people who are not registered in his class are coming to his lectures and even standing at the back, just to listen. He's an exceptionally smart economist and public speaker. He's really into technology and entrepreneurship. You could be so enlightened if you talk with him.
Legendary, awesome guy. If you are not in his class you are not learning economics
Definitely sit in on all his lectures BUT DO NOT take his course. His midterms and exam are incredible difficult, and you can get a much higher mark in any other professor's class. He teaches with very practical examples, and much less theory than the other profs, so if you're planning on taking upper Econ classes, register for someone else's class
Most probably, one of the best profs of UW. Every student should, at least, attend a lecture. Although his teaching is so practical, he is really a HARD-GRADER!
I just want to say: During my 3 years in University, Larry Smith is the only professor I know that gets students? applause every time when he finishes a lecture. He calls the classroom that he teaches ?his theater?.
the best professor I have ever had. Larry gets a standing ovation for a reason.
The best prof I have ever had. His teaching goes beyond economics to gives you tips on how to succeed in any field. Exams are not the easiest, but that should not deter you from taking a course with him. At the end of every lecture I left class inspired and empowered. He got an applause after each class, and a standing ovation after the last.
Lots of real world practical examples, class is fun to attend...
awesome
So far, the most amazing prof I've had at UW. Took both Micro(101) & Macro(102) with him. Exams are not easy, but you'll be fine if you attend all lectures, read through course notes and put in good effort while making your reference sheet. This is wasn't just an economics class, it was a class on how to achieve success despite global competition.
hottest prof on campus no lie!
Best prof ever!
best prof imo.
Very entertaining prof, but his exams are a killer. Really need to think about those questions before answering them. I highly reccomend attending his lectures, but enrolling in them, not so much.
The exams are KILLER but the man is WORTH it! Loved every one of his classes! Always excited for Thursday evenings.... his 3 hour class went by to fast. Take advantage of the bonus assignment and the reference sheet and BUY the courseware!
Don't listen to people complaining about the difficulty of the exams. If you haven't taken a class with Larry, you are missing out big time. Just make sure you take extensive notes - I think I wrote down more of his funny sayings than actual lecture content.
Do not join his class. He keeps saying how this world is stressful and more competition arises. His teaching is vague, expect him running around talking for 3 hours with no lecture notes written. You take whatever you have to take and his exams are KILLER. Expect 70 in this course if you are with him. This should be bird if not Larry Smith.
Although his tests are harder than other profs,but it is worth it. He does not use the textbook at all and he teaches his own concept. But His concept are powerful and highly pratical. In his class, i learned many real life problem and ways to solve it. He is extremely helpful outside of class,take an advantage of this and attend all his office hrs
You HAVE to take a course with Larry Smith while at UW. He's the man. His lectures are like practical life advice. It's like careers class... but actually interesting, and VERY practical. Highly recommended. Midterms and the final are a bit of a shot in the dark though (all MC questions, although a bit vague).
Larry is an awesome lecturer. His lectures were very clear, interesting, and highly amusing - comparable to a stand up comedy. I looked forward to his 3-hr lecture every week. His lectures were filled with practical info, examples, and advice. Realistic & doesn't sugar-coat. His midterms & exam were hard and ambiguous, but his class was worth it!
i would recommend students to go for his lecture, but don't enroll in his class. his lectures are very interesting and practical. however, if you don't have a clear economics concept, you can barely understand. moreover, don't take it if you aim to get 80-90s.
Taking ECON 102 with a diff. prof made me realize how much i missed this class. As for people saying how you should attend his lectures and enrol in a diff.class, the fact is that you need to practice applying the concepts used in class so that would require sitting for his exams.
Most interesting professor at UW right ahead of Professor Burris in the Psych Dep. The rumours about the class being hard are definitely true though. He is super interesting in class and explains the concepts in real world terms however alot of work is needed out of class to get the theory because it is not explicitely explained in class.
Great professor - one of the best I've had. Hugely passionate, very wise. A bit intimidating, but certainly a must-see.
Best prof ever!!! His lectures are amazing, interesting, funny. I had a 3-hour lecture with him every Thursday, and it was the best 3 hours of my week, by far. I actually looked forward to his class. An awesome, and genuinely nice prof; he would stay about 1.5 hrs after class to answer questions (and class ended at 10 PM!!!).
GREAT. If your objective is to learn, this is the guy to take. Exams are tricky since there are questions where you have to think like him but its not impossible to get at least a 75
As a 1st year student with limited exposure to econ I found it difficult to keep pace with his un-scaffolded/unfocused/didactic style. His discourse is excellent (TED talk quality). Found he tested on trivia or asked to regurgitate his opinion back at him.
Larry is the man!! The way he lectures is nothing short of fantastic (both in terms of presentation and content). He talks about how econ relates to real-world issues that are occurring NOW. He also runs around the "barn" for each of his 3hr lectures. Very entertaining. I wish he taught upper year courses as well. Chief priest analogy is brilliant.
Keep's you interested for all 3 hours of his lecture. Awesome presentation and the stories he tells are real world examples that have a practical value. Doesn't use textbook at all so attendance is a must. For those who love to memorize stuff from the book this course would be a nightmare, but for those who have a little bit of logic it would rock!
Larry Smith is the high priest of economists. I wasn't even enrolled in his class and I was present for every single lecture. Each lecture was the highlight of my week. Taking a class with Larry Smith is an experience you can't afford to pass up, despite some of his crazy antics (or because of them!)
Very unhelpful at times.
Larry is amazing He trains all his students like warriors He shows so much passion and will keep your attention for hours
He's the best economics professor at the University of Waterloo, period.
After taking econ with another prof i realized how lucky i was. If you pay attention and read over notes a good mark is possible. I got an 92. So it is possible to do well with larry. His fast teaching style may present some challanges to students.
Larry is very passionate and makes the class an experience. I did not find the material overly hard and with limited studying could pull high marks. I did get tired of his attitude. He is a bit full of himself.
Larry Smith is captivating. Best instructor I've had to date. Entertaining, knowledgeable, and shrewd, teaches in a dynamic and highly applied manner. Discards typical text-centric, dry structure of econ classes and makes the subject come alive. His career advice (and exams) kick your butt.
Attendance mandatory, but his lectures are hands down the BEST EVER. People not in the class flood the classroom because he is just that good. You have to take his class if you can! Best prof imaginable.
BEST PROF EVER. Sometimes difficult to get a seat because about 100 extra people come to the class that aren't in it, just because he's that good.
Larry Smith is a pretty horrible professor, for people who don't at least loosely follow the news he's okay for teaching some day to day stuff. Otherwise I don't recommend him at all. He rambles incessantly about totally irrelevant topics. He does not teach econ correctly or properly prepare for higher level courses.
Really bad lecturer, constantly gets way off topic. Parades around the class talking about nonsense and then makes test questions about nonsense he talks about. Example question: Why was England such a great colonising nation? Correct answer: Animal spirit. Classes are a big waste time for anyone who follows the news.
It has been more than 20 years since I took his class and I still remember him and the stuff he taught. On average, I skipped about 75% of the classes in Waterloo, but I made an effort to attend every single one of Larry's class. It's extremely entertaining. You laugh and you learn. Best prof ever!!!
blah blah
Tests were awesome
Not need a lot of effort to pass that class
Decent
good professor
Zooms in real nice. *Ahhhhh*
This techer is the bestest most wonderfullest techer eye have ever had in may lyfe.
Really solid.
If I could choose a 4th tag, it would be "Skip class? You won't pass." Larry is a one-of-a-kind guy. You'll learn more than you ever imagined from him, and will do it enthusiastically. If you have the opportunity to take his class, do it. It'll be work, but it'll be worth.
Inspirational lecturer
Professor Smith is a captivating lecturer who makes economics come alive. While his fast pace can be challenging, attending class and using study aids like unstuckstudy ai can help you succeed. Overall, a rewarding experience.
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