3.7
Quality2.7
Difficulty35%
Would Retake230
Reviews35%
Would Retake
230
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
129
4
17
3
18
2
16
1
50
What Students Say
“Do not take this "teacher" if you are serious about history”
HIST107 - 1.0 rating“She teaches her own political agenda, not history”
HIST106 - 1.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
76%
Textbook Required
50%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B+
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Declining
-1.49 avg changeRatings by Course
WESTCIV104
5.0
(2)WESTERNHISTORY
5.0
(1)WESTCIV105
5.0
(1)WORLDHISTORY
5.0
(1)HISTORY104
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
HIST10603
5.0
106
4.3
HIS106
4.1
HISTORY132
4.0
WORLDHIS107
4.0
Reviews (230)
I want to take WEST CIV, not a world history. That's why I chose it. And by the way I actually want to learn something except the Bay of Pigs, how about Roman&Greek societies?
I'm with you, she sucks in that aspect. We haven't done anything yet. I guess that is good or bad. You decide
she very sweet,kind and helpful.I have learn many things from her class.she is great teacher that loves her subject in what she teaching.she also help u after and before class with ur homework or assignment.this class can be easy A if you just come in everyday.She really care how u work in class.
You've learned many things, like what? What is the best way to waste a class? Or how not to learn anything? Because I have an A in that calss and I did not learn SH_T! Except Mexican history and women's rights. Neither of which ahs anything to do with west civ.
Good Class. Learn a lot about the topics other teachers won't talk about. Knows her stuff and have fun in class. Cares about students.
Very easy class!!! do all your assignments and get an easy A. Very cool professor. Easy going, pleasant fun and a hot mama. lots to learn from this class & lots of extra credit
I enjoyed this class very much. Laura is very nice, sweet and helpful. I have learned a lot from this class. Very interesting and educational. Easy A if you do your assignments. There is a lot of extra credit opportunities if you want to take advantage of them. I recommend this class very much!!!
She' too cool. Likes and helps her students very much.
Love the class Just don't get behind. Don't worry she gives extra credit. Easy A if you want it. Fiesta at the end of semester. Yummy food.
Really, really cool professor take her if you can, and you'll learned a lot about history. Its fun too
she is so cool!.u are really going 2 like her!I wish all teachers were like her.she helpful,love her subject, and she take her time for her students 2 help them after and be4 class.really if i was you i would take her.and she love all her students.also you get an A if you show up only. she show great film that i learn from. it easy A like i said.
No Comments
Dropped this class after the first week so I'm not sure how hard is. A warning to more traditional learners, you will prob not enjoy this class. She is into experimental styles of teaching. The first 4 classes were dedicated to "Getting to know each other" If you like a teacher to lecture, and a student to take notes and thats it, shes not for you.
I love this class!!! I have learned and still learning things that no other professors even have the guts to talk about. She is young, but very intelligent and very brave not to keep teaching in the boring, ancient style. Just do the work that is required and you'll do just fine. There is extra credit opportunities, if you want to do well!
No Comments
She was freakin' awesome...not to mention that she is actually passionate about what shes teaching. I loved the class and it was super easy. Not only to you gain knowledge but youll get an A. Take this class if you have to.
She is very liberal and punds you over the head with evolution, but the class is easy.
Very hot teacher, good looking, and becoming a good dancer. Her class is non-complicated and knowledgable. I would take it again only if she is teaching it!!!!!
It's been a pleasure to be part of Miss Ryan; World History class, She's a very helpful professor who cares about students. She's intelligent, innovative, creative, inspirational, y Hermosa.
Ms. Ryan is HOT, very nice professor explain in details and if you have questions or need help she stays until you get it right! Very easy class I recommend her.... one of my best professors!
Take this or any of her courses, she will keep your intrest during lectures, inspire you to speak out during class discussions, and you will want to attend class. Very helpful, very cool(she is young and hip!), and easy.
wow...got a B because i focus more on her great looks,she was worth looking at the whole semester...very hot dancer, too...next time i'll focus on what she says...very liberal teacher...take her!!!
EASY EASY EASY!!!!!
She is such a great teacher! Take her class if you get the chance. She is really helpful and knows what she is teaching.
Laura is really nice! She is easy to talk to about anything. She is very understanding. The class was not really about history (more about sex) but if you think history is boring like I do, it will be fun!
Definitely the best history teacher I've taken. She has fresh and interesting material. Keeps the class lively and is never boring. There's a minimal amount of reading and homework and the final is easy. Highly recommended! Oh yea, she's good looking too.
This class is so-so. The teacher turned out to be fairly nice even though she acted like a total tyrant at the beginning. She gives out some interesting reading material but if you like history teachers that give out as much information on the era as they can then don't take this class because it's narrowly focused.
Very good class. I like that there are lots of group discussions. She keep the class interesting. No test or quiz but you have to write about 5 small papers and two regular essays. She is strict with attendance. I recommend her for any history class.
She's an excellent instructor! Very helpful, you'll not only learn history, but you'll learn how to think critically. She's one of our best instructors who not only teaches but actually gets incvolved with the class.
Ms. Ryan is very by-the-book, but she is fair. I must admit I did not pass the class but that's because I did not show up half the time. I do not need the class, just took it because I was interested in history, but if I had to repeat it I would definetly take her again. Just don't be late because she will stop talking and totally call you out.
Very good teacher.
Great Teacher, easy class!
I try to take her Womens Studies class back when she was teaching at Grossmont College but she left before I could;other then that she is great teacher and gets involes with the class.
well if u just want to pass history with a good grade, then this is the right class, i took 2 classes and got 2 A's, i really can't understand why some got C's. shes a good teacher and u learn stuff.
This teacheris super dooper easy. If you want an easy A, then take her. I personally prefer a challenge so I would not take her class again. But if your GPA is suffering and you need a pick-me-up kind of class, well then I urge you to take this professor.
in one word...EASY!
A really good professor. She grades really easy!!!
Very nice lady. She was helpful and also, gave advice to you when she could. highly recommend for history. She brought my faith back into the history dept. ;)
Took it Fall '06. She's a cool teacher. Understands us students. Makes the class fun. Even asks for your opinion and gives extensions. Tests/quizzes weren't even hard, just read the assigned readings & you'll do fine. The book is small so don't worry about lugging it around. She always uses that BABY PHAT purse of hers.
I took her Spr 07 and I loved her class so much I am taking her SUM 07 coarse, American Civilizations. Laura, is amazing teacher, and I highly recommend her to everyone! Shes big on debate, so shy people this isn't for you! She understands students, and working full time, and shes very approachable! She bearly uses the book, so mostly lecture!
take this class during summer. there's no stress involved, yet the material you learn is enlightening. you will write two essays (2-3pages); get into a group for a current event presentation; and have a debate for your final. If you're a shy person don't fret- the pressure is minimal compare to the material you'll learn. oh and the book is cheap:15
CALL HER MS RYAN, SHE THINKS PROFESSOR IS WELL :). ANYWAY SHE IS AMAZING PROFESSOR AND I LOVE HER CLASSES. I TOOK HER FOR HIST 104 & 101 AND I AM TAKING HER 106 AND 107 IN THE FALL. SHES AN INSPIRATION AND HER CLASSES ARE FUN AND THE WORK IS CAKE. SHE HELPED ME FIND THAT I LOVE HISTORY AND I CHANGED MY MAJOR BECAUSE OF HER. YOU HAVE TO TAKE HER!!!!
PROFESSOR RYAN IS A GREAT TEACHER. SHE IS UNDERSTANDING, AND SHE IS ALWAYS THERE WHEN YOU NEED HER EXTRA HELP. SHE GIVES OUT EXTRA CREDIT, AND LETS YOU EDIT YOUR ASSIGNMENTS! I LOVE HER SHE'S GREAT! ( IRAQ WOOOON THE ASIA CUP FINAL MS. RYANNNN!)
I have to say that she is gorgeous! The best way to explain her is a friendly new aged feminist. No matter what age you are studying it is always about women rights. That being said she's funny, smart and very nice. Take this class to hear all points of views on issues from a non traditional fun teacher.
great teacher. young sweet caring. helps u out in ur class work. friendly!she makes the class funny and one of the greatest teachers at swc! im going to miss her =(
Yes, she is a nice person, but that does not mean she is a good teacher. The majority of this semester I have observed an instructor who I find to be unprepared when class begins and finds it difficult to properly explain instructions for assignments. Once you get past her charm, she is clearly a flawed educator who has no business teaching.
Ms. Ryan is a nice lady, but a bad teacher. I often ask myself why am I in a class where I learn nothing but 5 class sessions on how to a project. Lady, I'm not in 1st grade anymore.... I would take someone else if I really wanted to learn something.
Just stay on top of your assignments and readings and you'll do fine. She's modestly hot so I guess that's another reason for guys to go to class.
Really felt like I wa sin grade school.
Ms. Ryan's class was fun. Role playing debate for final, some critical thinking papers, and journal assignments. We looked at all points of view on topics. I learned a lot and changed my major to history because of her class.
Really easy teacher. dont need to read the whole book. Didnt do anything the whole semester. Logics are easy and worth a lot of points
This class is ohhh soo easy it should be a high school class. L.Ryan is a great instructor and the class is fun. Take it get and A+ and be happy.
Real easy teacher. Very lenient. Assigned journals (summaries and elaboration on readings), Logics (Critical-Thinking papers), and 1 paper. She's funny and doesn't make the class boring, highly recommend!
Very nice, very understanding but very professional. Doesn't accept late work but you just have to show you learned and she'll give you a good grade. Very intelligent person.
Professor Ryan is very good at what she does. She gets students interested in things they normally arent. I personally, learned alot. Make sure you show up for class. Although attendance isn't mandatory she throws in 10 point journals to those who show up. MAX 500 pts in the class. She also gives extra credit. I would reccomend this class to anyone
She's a very nice lady who makes you feel at ease in her class. I didn't care much for the "Logic" papers, but her instructions are very clear. (She gives out two types, written and visual so people like her and myself who does best by example!) Her class was fun and relatively stress free. I'd gladly take another one of her classes again.
It was her first semester teaching Women in World and it was a great class! She invites many guest speakers like Benjamin Skinner, author of A Crime So Monstrous and Jeff Bucholtz who's a really great speaker! We had poster projects about how women are viewed in the media! Homework consists of a few journals, logics, and final essay! Take Her!
Disorganized, with 3 weeks left to go, she couldnt figure out my grade. Class was sex laden w/ gay paper due, verynarrow-minded and not a good speaker. She would just pop in dvd's or movies & just kick back, hardly ever lectured, b/c she's not very good at it. If you want a passing grade, then just show up, but you want to learn, take someone else.
I really like the class. I was already excited about taking a history class, but as soon as I started with her class it was even more than I expected. I learned a lot. I felt like the way she teaches makes the understanding easier.. Would definitely recommend her.
Ms. Ryan is a great teacher. He really knows her stuff and makes history enjoyable. The class is mainly easy because her assignments are very simple. She really knows her stuff and shes pretty attractive ;). Thanks Ms. Ryan!! I do recommend this professor
aaaaww man!! her class is so interesting. you learn a lot. history is not my favorite subject, but she makes it fun for everyone. i would definitely recommend her.a lot of work but its easy work. :))
Women in World History is an AWESOME class! Recommend her! Passionate and class is VERY fun and interesting! Work's not hard, but you do learn tremendously! :)
Wonderful teacher. Inspiring and beautiful.
It's noticable that she is passionate about her job. Dude, she even knows who BENJAMIN SKINNER IS! Good professor and very interesting class. I received a 98% for her night class, best A ever :]
this is got to be my favorite teacher at swc shes so cool just take her class and you will see. do all the work and youll get an A.
easy class if u get a bad grade on an assignments lets you re do it save all ur work for the final essay which is easy ! this class is the easiest class at swc but be prepared to do work no test !
Ms, ryan is a good teacher, she can talk alot and go on to other subjects but overall she loves teaching and you can tell, she is willing to answer any questions u have, but it is a pain if u have to turn in work late, be on time and do your best and this will be a easy yet very interesting class. :)
If you want a VERY EASY class take one of her history classes. SHE GIVES NO FINAL!!!! there is like one test the whole semester and the work is really easy!! You can be late as many times as u like, and there is TONS of extra credit u can do. I highly recommend u take her classes. =)
Ms Ryan is an awesome Professor. She's got an awesome way of having her students involved in her lectures. Very approachable, and willing to work with you. She listens, and she cares! :)A+ professor! you won't regret taken her class.
OMG...!!!Is the most interesting and easy class.Ms Ryan is really helpful, nice, and great teacher, even that history is noy one of my favorite classes, she make the clas really interesting. You will love it
She does not seem to grade fair! She gives B's and C's to everyone. I worked my butt off to get an A compared to other students who wouldn't put as much effort into their assignments and I never got the well deserved A. Never had missing assignments, and they were always complete and turned in on time.
easy, a lot of extra credit she is nice I got B :D
one of the good teachers. took her for summer and an A is definitely manageable as long as you turn in all your work which involves some readings nothing difficult at all and attend class .
She is cool. But you will not learn anything is an easy class. Class tend to be boring she goes on and on in the same topic.
Ms. Ryan is SUCH a good teacher!!! I love her! I took her class last spring semester and enjoyed her class tremendously; and I'm not even a History major! Her assignments and 1 test is a piece of cake! Highly recommended!
Su '10. No tests just final. Write lots on assignments if you want an A. Focuses on world issues rather than history, such as slave trade.
I love Ms. Ryan! She is so so sooooo easy. She lectures sometimes, but when she does you don't even realize it because she's a fun teacher. We watch a lot of interesting films and you're allowed to miss 6 classes. My final for her class was just to write a paper and a logic paper. Her class is so easy to pass. And we hardly ever use our books!
Very helpful professor, she is a wonderful speaker. She also offers extra credit, and they're useful to attend (learning and for class). She is dedicated, and all future teachers should take her. She is an advocate for future teachers. Although, you write lots of papers, she offers plenty of help.
She's a really awesome teacher. I enjoyed her class thoroughly and recommend taking her. The assignments are super easy, no testing in HIST 132, and she offers extra credit. I like her personality, she doesn't mess around when she speaks. My only complaint is that she speaks of not being bias but speaks with a little herself.
She's an okay teacher, she's just very scatter-brained and changes her mind so much. She pissed me off a few times by changing her mind about assignments. She is also stupid on common sense; like, only voting for Obama because his wife is a health nut.
I loved this class and the teacher. Class is very interesting, cover real and up to date topics. She's a great, very passionate about world history. Couple essays and videos
Amazing professor. Will go the extra mile to help you understand. She is kind and makes class fun. took her for 2 semesters and will take her a third. Inspired me to help people (and i am not a people person) she follows rules and regulation, so dont expect to be absent and remain in her roster. Strongly recommend this professor. :)
MS. RYAN IS AN EXCELLENT PROFESSOR. SHE ENGAGES THE CLASS WITH INTRIGUING DISCUSSIONS AND INTERESTING VIDEOS. I AM SO GLAD I TOOK HER CLASS, BECAUSE I LEFT LOVING HISTORY. I AM SO IMPACTED THAT I WANT TO TAKE HER FOR ALL HER COURSES. SHE IS PROFESSIONAL, VERY INTELLIGENT, AND A STRONG MOTIVATOR TO CHANGE THE WORLD IN A POSITIVE WAY! :)
Awesome Teacher! Wants to help the world and encourage people to do so also. Lover her teaching styles, makes class interesting. But don't think women's history class is just that, the class should be called Women's Studies, learn more modern things. I recommend everyone should take her Women's in World History!
If you dont like taking boring history tests this is the class to take! she doesnt believe in tests! shes really helpful and basically gives you the answers for the jounals.
She is a good teacher her self, but her format for the class sucks! It's more of a "World Political Science" class then actual world history class. I haven't learned a thing and I'm a history major. If she actually stuck with world history, It would have been a lot better.
Took her for 106&107. She's a great teacher who cares so much about her students and the content she teaches. She teaches the class on the assumption that everyone reads the text, so she chooses specific areas to focus on. Ms. Ryan doesn't believe in tests so the class is all writing assignments. She is very fair and kind. Her passion is inspiring.
Ms. Ryan, is the hottest Fem Nazi I have ever met. A great teacher and knows her material. I would recommend her history class to anyone.
If you hate tests, definitely take this class. Her assignments are so easy. One presentation. Take her.
Ms Ryan is a really good teacher shes really nice but can be mean and aggressive if the class is acting bad she rarley gives out homework and never gives out tests not even for the final. all in all shes a good person.... only downside is that she always rambles about eating healthy and how healthy she is
Very interesting class. I took Ms. Ryan for 106 & 107 and learned a lot. She is very knowledgeable about the class and inspired me to become a History major. Highly rec'd.
She is very open-minded in wanting to hear what you think :) Class discussions = interesting!! She is one of the best teachers @ SWC. Radical for women, environmentalist, and activist! She is very, very organized. *Gives a lot of pointers, you just have to read wrkshts. No late work accep. Challenging class.
Laura is an AWESOME teacher. This is a FUN class with no tests and extra credit.
Easy class that presents thought provoking material. I had a good time in class and was glad I took it. I hear Hist 107 is more fun and even more laid back. Regardless, it really got me thinking, especially toward the end of the semester when we talked about the sex trade. Highly recommend this teacher.
Do you want an easy class with no tests, very little homework and still learn a lot? Then take Ms. Ryan's class! Excellent professor, very pretty as well, engaging lectures, interesting videos, and assignments that will make you think and challenge what you thought you knew. Highly recommended.
You will not learn anything from this teacher! She never lectures about what you're supposed to be learning in a western civ class. She usually only talks about woman's rights or sex slavery. If you actually want to learn about history take another teacher, but if you would like an easy A take Prof. Ryan!
She is very cool to learn from
She gives about six essay type assignments over the course of the semester, all of which are explained by her very well and are not very difficult to complete. She gives no tests not even for the final, the final is one of the essays. She is very approachable and always nice, maybe my favorite professor to date. Take her class you won't regret it.
Laura Ryan is an intelligent woman whose class is very easy and informative. She's really pretty too. If you take her classes you'll have fun. The only complaint if have is that she repeats a lot of the same stories over and over.
This class reminds me of high school. Handouts, lots of instruction, and not really challenging. I really haven't leantned much from this class. It not your normal lecture take notes and get tested. There's no tests just essays. Good class of you want to talk about current issues and be in a not so serious setting.
This is a fun class! Be ready to write a lot though. Two 8 page papers, two 5 page papers, and a 3 page paper. Take this class if you want to learn a lot and feel prepared for transfer. Ms. Ryan's tips on how to get an A are really helpful. Loved class and teacher..
Good teacher, always willing to help. She always explains things great and doesn't give out too much homework. Easy and fun class to pass. She has low tolerance for stupid people , and I mean disrespectful and late people. I just wouldn't want to get on her bad side. She's very nice though. Oh yeah, shes pretty hot too, insentive enough for me.
Cool teacher and a pretty easy class. She just follows these guidelines of how to teach from some "awesome" white historians. If you're serious about history you should take a class taught by Stan James.
This has been by far my favorite professor at SWC. She is very easy to understand and has great lectures. Yes, it is a lot of work! I will admit. But I did learn a lot. A big plus was that I was able to work on my writing and reading skills. She is just awesome :)
I absolutely love her and her approach in teaching! You can tell that she genuinely cares about her students' understanding of the material and does not measure that understanding by exams/quizzes but instead through assignments that actually benefit us. This class is only difficult if you make it! Come to class and don't procrastinate! Bam!
Took Prof. Ryan for HIST106. Her class was pretty difficult from the start but in the second assignment everything is going to turn easy. This class with dedication is an easy A. The teacher is one of the best, she cares about what's going on the world and she likes to talk about life. Totally recommend her!
The class was fun, so I enjoyed going to class.
The BEST TEACHER in the world. Shes super nice teacher loves her work helps and gives instructions with so much clarity. Class is easy and she makes everything in class s fun the power points and things you learn are interesting you will love going to class class is so fun that time goes super fast. Ms Ryan's class has everything shes really cool
Ms. Ryan is a strong minded woman who is very organized and enjoys teaching history. This course was awesome to go to and I learned alot. She enjoys discussions and will bring in guest to lecture.
Take the women's history class! It's A M A Z I N G and really eye-opening! Then take the rest of her courses. She's the best professor at SWC ever, she goes above and beyond other professors and she takes a genuine interest in her students. I've never been bored in her class, the atmosphere is chill.
Aside from the occasional DVD or guest speaker, most of what I've learned in Ryan's class ranges from what Miley Cyrus is up to to her over opinionated positions on subjects that, most of the time, aren't even related to the subject. As someone who is genuinely interested in history, this class was a huge disappointment.
worst teacher I have ever had does not know what she is doing.
This teacher is a great teacher. She shows concern for her students & gives a lot of her time to help. Keep up with the readings, which are posted in blackboard so no need for the books. She is a strong opinionated woman so come with an open mind. She's awesome!
Great professor. No quiz nor exam at all. Active class. Interesting information and great knowledge. Very helpful professor and flexible as well. You just need to turn in around 7 papers (easy) in the whole semester. And she gives u extra credit too
I had the privilege of attending Ms.Ryan's History 106 class last semester. Very straight forward teacher and provides clear guidelines for her assignments. I thoroughly enjoyed her classes but i often left her classroom a bit disappointed with what we had covered. I feel as if we could have covered a lot more content. All in all, great teacher
Do not take this "teacher" if you are serious about history. On the other hand, if you want an easy "A" and want to learn about how much she hates Toyota, about organic products, about how much she hates Columbus, about how much she hates Lynne Cheney, then take this course by all means! Also take if you don't mind constant cussing by her.
If you're looking for a history class, take her WOMENS HIST. 132. You will NOT regret it!! No textbook, no quizzes or tests, class discussions daily, and reading chapters from a book. really eye opening class!!
Love Laura! She is very passionate about what she is teaching, and she gives you a lot of advice/knowledge, not only about history but also modern life. Classes are very fun. No exams, only essays to write from home (6-7). Overall, the papers are very easy and the topics are extremely interesting, even to those who hate history.
SHE IS THE BEST TEACHER YOU WILL GET IN SOUTHWESTERN!! COURSE MATERIAL IS STRAIGHT FORWARD, ASSIGNMENTS ARE MANAGEABLE AND ENJOYABLE, NO EXAMS, TOPICS ARE INTERESTING, PRESENTATIONS ARE FUN, AND HOMEWORK IS EASY. IF YOU PUT IN THE TIME, YOU WILL GET A LOT OUT OF THE CLASS AND YOU WILL END UP WITH A SOLID A IN THE CLASS. TAKE HER, YOU WON'T REGRET.
This class is super easy! She doesn't give tests or quizzes at all. I thought this class was going to be boring but it's so fun. Her final is so much fun and easy as well. She also gives you a packet with all the assignments and due dates at the beginning so you can work on them whenever you want. Honestly it's an easy A.
She is amazing and really cares about her students. Guest speakers are frequent and extra credit is always offered, but don't count on it to bring up a failing grade. The final is really fun and lets you be creative and thoughtful.
you will make name tags like a middle school kid. And learn about what Laura likes and doesn't like, and her mother, and her college days, and how she worked so hard, and how she hates things, and the girl with down syndrome with lipstick smeared, and beer. Everything: besides world history. Don't do it!
She likes her class to be more interactive and so spends the first month encouraging students to make friends in class. This could be dragging. She spends a good 25% of class time talking about things totally unrelated to class like Game of Thrones. No exams, just papers - lots of it! Very interesting lecture topics. Super liberal. Fun class.
No tests No quizzes No presentations Only papers. Long, but interesting papers. After the first assignment, things look up. She's very passionate about history, and although you don't need to study for any tests, you'll remember a lot from her class because of the way she lectures.
probably 20% of all the classes during one semester did she actually lecture on world history, the other 80% were her being overly opinionated on irrelevant topics. Super easy class there's only a few assignments, no tests, you don't even need the book. However, I'd like to learn more about world history rather than her pretentious rambling.
Her history class is not so much remembering names and dates but general concepts like cause-and-effect. Laura prefers class discussion over lecture; be open minded! Some "history buffs" will not like her style but many appreciate her tie-ins to modern life. She assigns papers that are fairly easy and she tells you exactly what she wants.
Laura Ryan is one of the most passionate professors that I know at Southwestern College. She is committed to teaching her students the true facts about history. You may find that her hilarious and sarcastic personality adds more depth to her lectures. I recommend that all students buy the required text and go to her office hours for help.
Awesome, inspirational, and passionate Professor; a true leader in every way who sincerely cares for her students. To bad the school doesn't have more Professors like her.
As a biology major, I have next to no background knowledge in history. So I was weary going into this class, thinking that I might have to pull the extra weight to catch myself up. Ryan broke down the information into understandable pieces. Enjoyable lectures, great discussions, you'll learn a lot about history and modern society. Amazing professor
I took Prof. Ryan for History 106 and 107 the same semester and got A's in both - a lot of reading/writing but very doable. She gives you a packet with all of the assignments and due dates at the beg. of the semester so you can work at your own pace. often changes due dates (but only to give you extra time) and extra credit is given.. take her!
Not worth having her as professor. She does knows her stuff in History, however she doesn't teach at all; meaning that she rambles about things than giving actual lectures. If any is a History major & actually want to learn something get someone else. She's a tough grader.
She teaches her own political agenda, not history. I agree with most of her life views, but not the way she manipulates single events to fit her grand narrative of the world. It is deceitful. She is easy though. She says you have to read. That is a lie. Just write what she wants to hear and don't challenge her views and you'll get an A.
You will write a lot in this class but there are no tests and quizzes. Prof. Ryan knows her stuff and each assignment is tailored to the class discussion that day. Interesting topics. Good teacher.
Laura is an excellent teacher. Her lectures are interesting, unique and extremely informative. She really cares about her students. No homework but lots of journals. I highly recommend her classes.
She is cool
She claimed you can only be conscious if you know history. I brought up the mentally challenged. She convinced the class they're not conscious and only due to the suffering of their relatives is it morally wrong to kill them. Surprisingly, Mein Kampf was not a required text. I learned how easily people can be manipulated into horrendous beliefs.
Professor Ryan's 107 class is the greatest class you can take. She teaches an array of topics such as human trafficking, the Rape of Nanking, Rosie the Rivetor, Herrieta Lacks, CIA coups in Latin America, and more, you will never be bored. Journals are easy if you follow direction. She doesn't sugar code things and that's what I love about her.
Good lectures, hard grader, but really cares about her students. Some people do not like her because of her personal views, but I had no problem because I mostly agree with her. :P Participate in class, get to know her she is a great lady and really cares about making a change in the world.
Students enjoy this class because of the rated language and that's all. Students are continuing their education with integrity and deserve respect. We continuously had our assignments reviewed by other instructors as a second set of eyes, it was obvious the low scores were due to difference of opinion on topics. Topics had nothing to do with facts
Lectures are interesting but only based on opinions. The grading system is very unfair and biased and that isn't cool. Students stay tuned to the lectures due to type of heavy and aggressive language used. She provides good guest speakers which are very informative, students need to learn and earn a fair grade to pursue their education.
Aside from everyone's negative view of Prof. Ryan, she is wonderful. It is not a regular history class that has a specific set of guidelines which makes it very interesting. In addition, her papers at first seem long but given the fact that you have the all the questions provided for you make it that much easier. Loved her class. I had a high grade
Laura's class is very interesting. She gives a lot of writing but it is not busy work. Each article is very interesting and I learned a lot. She truly cares about her students and even gave out book prizes with a nice note in each if we got the highest grade. I took her for all her classes and I learned a lot and had fun! Best teacher at this schoo
Ms. Ryan was the best professor I've ever had! She cares about her students not only in class but outside of class as well. She provides a lot of time outside of class to get help on the papers and extra credit as well. Amazing lectures and guest speakers. She inspired me to push my self in my writing and not just give the bare min.
Prof. Ryan is a very caring instructor and enjoys in class discussion. She wants to make sure you read and fully understand the topics at hand. Prof. Ryan is also very passionate about topics, especially if you take her for modern history, like human trafficking. Home work is pretty simple and she teaches you to try to identify bias in the authors.
Very interesting topics that are talked about in this class big eye openers. Guest speakers are amazing. Her grading criteria for papers are quite odd. Doesn't really look at material content, rather focuses more on grammatical errors, which can bring your grade from the writings A to an F. No tests, but most your grades are based on those papers.
A tough grader and lots of papers but worth it. No tests and quizzes, instead journal papers. I remember everything I learned in this class. Laura is very caring and will help you with your papers. She brings great speakers and doesn't sugar coat so get ready for eye opening topics.
Awesome class by an outstanding professor that cares! The class has small assignments spread out about 2 weeks. No multiple choice exams. All reading and writing but you'll definitely improve or maintain your critical thinking skills if you do the work. Instructions are very clear and if you follow instructions, you'll earn a high grade.
Hands down the greatest professor I've ever had in my life. She makes you think ouside the box, to reflect on events that has happened throughout history. I was lucky enough to have great classmates, who made class discussions interesting and fun. She only grades on journals (and a logic paper), but those are easy to do.
Professor Ryan really opens your eyes to the outside world! She gives extra credit opportunities and teachers you what is going on around us in modern days. Took her History 132 class and although it was heartbreaking some lectures but she informs you, tells you the truth and is funny! Great professor, cares for her students and is AWESOME!
The grading criteria doesnt make sense. Her class is more political then actual women in world history. some of what she talks about are important issues. Just not enough of historical content. We get it, women had a lot of terrible situations, where is the why? She can be unprofessional at times. While she cares more about grammar than content.
Professor Ryan's lectures can be interesting but relates back to her political views. She said in the beginning of class that she believes students should research both sides of an argument. However, when she presents an argument its mostly one sided. The only reason I passed is because I just wrote what she wants to hear. Do that and you will too
This so far has been my favorite class at Southwestern College. Very eye opening topics, interesting lectures and great speakers. Laura grades tough and she says it like it is so if you want to learn take her class!
Laura's class was really fun and all of the topics are very interesting. You write a lot but she gives you all the assignments ahead of time. No tests! She really cares and wants you to do well. Yes, she is a tough grader but it is worth it because you learn a lot. Go to her group study sessions because they help a lot. Take this class!
Laura Ryan is amazing! She's one of the best professors at SWC. You will learn a lot about important World History events and she will provide you with VERY interesting material. You need to show up to every class , but it is worth it. Her class is very engaging because she encourages you to participate. She's very knowledgeable and inspirational.
Lauras class is very interesting and fun. She assigns a lot of writing but there are no tests. My writing and critical thinking skills improved because of her class. She is really caring and passionate about what she teaches. There are many heartbreaking lectures so be prepared! An eye opening class where you learn a lot.
Social Activism masquerading as a History class. Actually so unprofessional I can't believe she has a job. Grades papers purely by personal mood/preferences only people with low IQ or nothing else better to do will enjoy this sham!!
Favorite class and favorite prof at SWC. Ms. Ryan goes above and beyond to help you do well in her class. The topics are really interesting like the dictatorships in Latin America, Zapatistas, Holocaust, And Zhung He. Highly recommend this prof if you want to learn.
I started taking this class as I was told easy A :( . First lets make it clear I am not a History major, long posts 2 page discussion board and long papers. Only given 35 minutes to do a 30 question quiz, a minute and some seconds to read and answer questions ridiculous if you ask me sometimes I reread not feasible with that amount of time
She wont accept your paper if youre more than 10 minutes late to class and if you forget to submit them online as well as in class youll get 0 credit. She also finds every little reason to doc points off your paper or give you a 0.
Ms. Ryan is one of my favorite teachers. Gives you all the assignments in the beginning of the semester, very organized, cares about students. If you do the work and go to her workshops you will do well. Goes above and beyond to help everyone. Interesting topics that open your eyes. Her class will actually prepare you for college. Not an easy A.
Shes the worse professor Ive ever had in SWC so far! She should be an English instructor instead for her requirements are ridiculous and meticulous. Shes even stricter than my previous legit English professors! She does not care about her students - she seriously only thinks about the technicalities of your output. Dont take her class!
only three papers but very long and with many instructions if you do not do something right puts you a zero please choose another teacher
The format of the class if very strange and she is super strict on absences. She doesn't even have a calendar for the assignments on the syllabus. How can she expect her students to not be lost in class.
She said the most ridiculous thing ever once. She said that if you missed class because your car broke down you have to send her a video of you and your car while its broken down. I mean seriously? Not only that. She gives super hard assignments and gives you a zero if you forgot to add something to the paper. No test just papers.
Ms. Ryan is one of the best professors you can have at SWC. I wouldn't say the class is an "easy A," because you do have to work for it, but as long as you do the work on time and take time to do it well, you'll pass easily. Other reviews saying they gave a bad grade because she "doesn't like them" probably did their papers last second.
Took fast track online and went smoothly. Will have paper assignments due that can be very heavy, don't put them off and it'll be fine. Tests simple and to the point. Do the light work and you'll be just fine.
I only recommend this class if you are majoring in history or LOVE history. I tried so hard on my journals to try to make then perfect and I promise I didn't procrastinate. I STILL GOT BAD GRADES. Also the journals she assigns have nothing to do with the lectures. The only pro is that the lectures are interesting & don't ask her dumb questions.
I usually don't leave reviews but this teacher was a bit of a hassle. She is nice if you get on her good side but she can be rude at the same time. As someone who has taken history classes at SW in the past and fairly enjoys history and researches history as a hobby this class was very random and unorthodox. Not in a good way though.
Lots of papers, no notes, no textbook. Just lectures, articles and essays. NO PHONES. Participation is important to her, but she can come off a bit rude some days. Very passionate about history.
Professor Ryan is a great professor. The class is based on having no exams/quizzes, but writing journals based on the topics we covered. She grades toughly and provides good feedback on papers so students can do better next time. The topics were very interesting and she provided powerful commentary on each and every topic.
Laura is passionate about what she does and teaches. I found this inspirational and motivating throughout the course and in life! Second, she is organized and you will always know what is expected from you regarding assignments. No tests or quizzes, only journals from a VERY interesting book! People below rating her bad are most likely slackers!
Laura Ryan is one of the BEST teachers I ever had in SWC! Shes not only very passionate about what she teaches, she makes sure to be very clear and organized about class assignments and grading. I felt she really prepares her students for university with writing quality papers of very interesting topics that you learn so much from! Amazing class!
Im pretty sure she held a grudge against me ever since I disagreed with her during a controversial topic. After that, she was overly knitpicking at my papers. Things like uneeded revision of words and sentences. I even took this to the writing center and they were concerned about the revisions. Dont do what I did or it will tank your grade.
Hands down Ms. Laura was one my favorite classes and favorite teachers of SWC! She actually makes her class interesting and the entire classroom engages in her lectures. Besides theres no tests, only assignments and you can do those ahead of time if you like.
If you are looking for a professor who makes their lecture fun and interesting this is her! Even if you are not into history, her passion for it will get you excited about it too! Just sincerely recommend her and her class. Work and grading is straightforward and clear. Nothing unexpected other than actually getting caught up and wanting more!
Laura gives one of the most inspirational and amazing lectures on SWC, she will make you work for a good grade but if you are looking to transfer to a 4-year institution you will be grateful you had someone pushing you to be better at intensive writing. The content of the class is incredibly diverse and interesting, I loved this class!
Shes a very interesting professor. Her teaching is not really like any other - no quizzes or tests or homework but regardless you learn a lot. She has essays or journals that shes extremely picky about how its written so ask questions. She talks the entire time which makes class boring besides the movies or docs she shows. The class is eh tbh
This professor was not able to make accommodations for understandable situations and is VERY inconsiderate. She is a very rude professor and is knit picky about her assignments for example, shes a tough grader and tries to deducts points for every little detail. I recommend you take anyone but her.
Took Professor Ryan for a fast track History class, that was a mistake. She is a good professor, tests are a little hard, but you can find most of the answers on quizlet. Follow her guidelines for the paper and reports, and you will be good.
I don't recommend this class at all. Shes an extremely tough grader. Focuses more on grammatical errors than content. Class was a hit or miss. Sometimes they were interesting and sometimes I would struggle to stay awake. This class stressed me out more than it needed to and I am so glad its almost over.
I really dont like it when professors curse in class. Makes them look unprofessional and makes the college look bad. She dropped so many F bombs throughout the class. She also gets on your case if you miss a class. This is adult education, not elementary school where you have to inform the teacher your business. If you miss class that's on you.
To this point, I am really upset with the grade she submitted for me when I clearly got an A �� Dont take this class unless youre SUPER passionate about history. I took it because I was interested about the subject, specifically about women in world history. I rarely spoke in class but worked very hard on the journals. 6 journals, 10-13 pgs each.
This is the worst class ive ever taken. Shes a strict grader, with super specific standards, her papers are 10 lengthy questions and if you do her "at least 1/2 page"(per question) it asking for a C and expects you to write at least a page extra for an A or B. Dont take unless your super passionate. #regrets worst professor ever, i hate history
In order to pass this class you must be a history major with the extensive knowledge Prof. Ryan has. She expects students to know history and write papers as if it were an English class. Out of the three English classes Ive taken, none of my professors have been so difficult or lack empathy toward their students. I do not recommend her.
I am a straight A student but somehow always received straight Cs in her class. Do NOT take her online. She is so tough on her papers. Her class ruined my GPA no joke. I had a 4.0 for all two years of CC and I'm ending it with her ruining it.
She is a VERY tough grader when it comes to papers. She nitpicks at everything and asks for a page but takes off points because it wasn't a page and a half. Most tests are easy to find online, but make sure you leave time for papers.
Professor Ryan is an excellent history teacher. The course syllabus is clear and achievable if you work hard. The tests for me were the biggest challenge because they are timed and I tend not to do well under pressure. You will definitely learn in this course. I would happily take another class with Professor Ryan.
Professor Ryan is one of my favorite Professors at SWC! She is dedicated. She always took the time to provide good feedback on every paper and answer emails. She always chose very important and interesting topics for the essay, had clear grading criteria and gave you plenty of time to complete the essays. Fast grader. I enjoyed her classes (:
This professor is very strict when it comes to late work and deadlines. She will not accept any late work, assignments turned in even a few minutes after the deadline will be locked and receive a 0. You have to literally have Covid for her to make an exception. Unnecessarily strict and harsh, don't bother telling her your problems bc she won't care
I worry about the way she grades assignments. I had no issues until the end of the semester when I found that she docked points off of my paper because it wasn't "two pages in length". The paper I submitted actually trickled onto the THIRD page, but she claimed it "didn't count" due to the space the MLA format header takes up at the top. Beware.
Online class dropped after week 2 due to ridiculous amount of course work. Required reading of over 300 pages in the first two weeks and a 5 page essay. No thanks.
Very picky with papers any little thing she doesn't like about your paper your grade will drop. From having too many to too little quotes its so confusing like she's never satisfied. I don't even feel like I'm learning history it feels more like an English class trying to exceed her expectations on papers that's all I focus on with this class.
I typically love English and writing papers, however, I absolutely hated writing papers for Ryan. She is so picky on everything and will never be truly satisficed with your work. She threatened to give me a zero on my essays if I got above 20% similarity on turn it in again. Instead of helping or giving actual feedback she just gives a low score.
So when I checked this site before taking her class my expectations were wrong. Miss Laura Is an excellent instructor, she gives really amazing feedback. You just need to have good skill making papers to make her proud! Papers are actually fun to do (do it at your pace) and it's an easy class.
I shouldve checked on here before enrolling in her class but overall, she does give good feedback on all the assignments. The assignments she did were interesting and there was only one assignment due every week. Now, where I had the most difficulty was when doing assignments, she is very strict with her grading and it affects your grade a lot.
Professor Ryan is the hardest grader I have ever had. Keep in mind I have 2 bachelor degrees. Extremely hard grader. I had to take her class twice to pass and I get all A's. She gives feedback on everything you turn in. For example, one of my papers had feedback of "Excellent examples and overall a really great paper." Yet, she gave me a 21/30.
Ms. Ryan is a tough grader to be sure but I had her for History 105 and 106 and Ive gotten 100% on all her papers. Im not a genius by any sense, I just got out of the Marines when I took HIS 106. What Im saying is that if you keep your papers simple and answer the questions bluntly you should be fine, this isnt an English class, simplebetter
Every week was a new paper on the most boring topic ever. Never learned anything about history. She would just give us a ted talk and tell us to write about the speaker and what he said and make it 2 pages long. Every other week, when it wasn't an uninspired lazy prompt, it was "Read chapter X and summarize, 3 pages long. Lazy Prompts, Hard Grader.
Professor Ryan is hands down the worst Professor I've had at Southwestern college. All she does is assign papers and she to say she's nitpicky on grading is an understatement and she offers no help. I've never experienced a teacher who makes you feel like she's against you and does not want you to succeed in her class until professor Ryan.
all you do is discussion boards and 5 essays, the DB is not hard to do but what brings you down is the essays if you are not comfortable doing essays don't take this class I wish she can let us fix our mistakes she does not give good feedback and says to go to the writing center if you have other heavy classes i don't recommend this class.
Honestly the worst professor I have ever had. There was an essay almost every week and even though I got A's and B's on them, she continuously flaunted how many people she was failing. It was very weird and she did not care about helping students get better, she just criticized and failed people. About half of my class dropped the course.
Does not respond to feedback on assignments. Expect harsh punishments for turning in a paper that is 95% of the required length.
The worst professor I have ever had, when I registered for her class I thought her scores here were just exaggerating and I was so wrong, first things first, her assignments are straight-up writing which is will be good if it wasn't for her always taking everything as plagiarizing and contacting her is very useless since she is "never" wrong.
Loved professor Ryan. I had her for my history 107 class. There are a lot of essays. I believe 7 essays throughout the semester. She can be a tough grader but only before she is trying to prepare her students for transfer. She is am amazing professor and I reccomend her to anyone who takes their collegiate career seriously.
She gives assigned chapter and 2 page papers per chapter every week, non constructive feedback, harsh grader
She is terrible, do not take her class.
She was a REALLY hard grader. Ryan will correct you on every Citations that is written in your paper. Even though I got an A, I had to do EVERY assignment, including extra credit, to get the grade I needed. The content is interesting but she is distant. If you don't have to take her fast paced online class, then don't. If you do, then be prepared.
Grades consist of 8 papers that are easy to get As on if you follow instructions. The topics the papers are on are very interesting and are often not taught about in high school history classes. If the rubric for the paper asks for a minimum of 2 pages (double spaced), then write 3.5 to 4 and you'll get an A. There's also a lot of extra credit.
BEWARE! I've never had a teacher that has been this difficult - not the work, just her. All you do is read the textbook, she does teach anything.When you can get ahold of her for help, it's a copy pasta message telling you to go to the Learning Center on campus.Don't expect any understanding or empathy from her even if you and your child has covid
Please be aware that this teacher gives a heavy workload and asks for a lot of information for each paper. Even though, I worked hard and tried my best for each paper that didn't matter. She wants what's on the assignment list or you won't get any points for trying. I definitely don't recommend this teacher.
Yes the class is difficult if you are not a strong writer but she gives extremely clear feedback as to what she wants and offers extra credit. The entire class is pretty much just writing papers, 4 in total each averaging out to 8-10 pages. She creates videos to show you were to improve as well. Overall, a good professor but workload is heavy.
I enjoyed Professor Ryans's class a lot. There was a paper to do once a week and maybe a discussion board. She was an extremely tough grader but gave feedback. I am a little confused with the other student comments I am reading. One paper a week is very doable. She grades on your ideas and answers, not so much on your grammar.
She does offer two opportunities for extra credit but because this class is literally only papers and if you're not good at writing papers, its very difficult to bring up your grade. She's not a bad teacher but it doesn't really feel like effort is being put toward her students actually learning the subject and absorbing the material.
Literally just papers and professor lacks empathy about your situation. If you actually care about history and want engaging lectures, don't take her class. Structure is just papers and no discussion posts, so it's very bland. Doesn't help you learn, just teaches you how to write papers. Good thing is she gives you meaningful feedback.
She is the worst teacher I've ever encountered. If you take her class, you'll have a miserable life; you won't even have time to study other courses. Her class is all about writing papers, and nothing else. But she expects you to write like a doctoral student. If you miss just one citation, sorry, you get an F.DON'T TAKE HER CLASS!
I love history but because of her class I hate history. All she wants is against you. DO NOT take her class!
This professor is inspiring, professional, and very intelligent. She might seem like a tough grader to students who are attending college for the wrong reasons. I was in my seat and ready to learn every single lecture day, because that is how awesome her class was! I wish more professors would keep college standards this high.
From what I understand, this course is completely different if taken in person. BEWARE of her online course. She doesn't care if you learn the material. All she cares about it whether or not you follow her bizarre/strict grading requirements. If you want an easy A, do EXACTLY as she says. If you care about history, don't take this course.
Professor assigns a lot of writing but still possible to get an A. I'm taking classes at SDSU and Southwestern and she grades fair. Prof holds her class to the same standards as my classes at SDSU so I'm used to the workload. Maybe others aren't. The readings are really interesting and she gives really good feedback. TONS of extra credit offered.
Professor Ryan has high expectations, but if you put in the work, the class can be valuable. The workload is heavy, with weekly papers and minimal feedback. Unstuck ai and the campus writing center can help manage the writing demands.
I have never had a professor stress me out this much please do not take her. Her grading criteria is too much. If you want to take a chill laid back online class, this aint the one.
I love history, but her grading criteria is weird and she's very passive aggressive in her feedback. Extremely stressful, I would not recommend her for History classes. The material is easy, but her criteria and grading makes it 100x more difficult.
Not recommended for autistic students. Very unclear guidelines, upon request for specifics I was told to seek disability support services to learn to write argumentative papers (I have straight As in English). Final paper, I had a stress migraine so bad I couldn't speak & Mom almost took me to ER. Closest I've come to failing. Kind except for that.
This is a tough class, but once you understand her criteria, it makes it so much easier. It's a lot of reading but she mixes it up and also uses films. Do not use AI, she will catch you. She holds her students to a higher standard so only take this class if you're willing to put in the work.
This professor expects you to buy 4 different textbooks, states they must be from the Southwestern bookstore - otherwise you will get a zero on your papers. She is also incredibly unclear with her guidelines and has flagged things as AI, even when they were 100% written in real time by myself. Doesn't seem like a caring professor whatsoever.
If you are looking for a history class for a GE I would not suggest this class, the teacher is miserable and tries to make your life hard. she expects a lot from the students, but so much so it makes me not enjoy history. there will be multiple papers, so this would not be the class for you if you don't enjoy writing.
It's a history class not an English class and the only thing she should worry about is if the history is correct. Overall, I would not take her again, take her if you like writing, I like writing and history, but I don't think she grades fair. Some of us used online pdfs and she took off points if you don't have the same books as her.
This professor is very very strict on how you write papers. I am taking the online course.There are three extra credit assignments but after having to write 7 papers in 8 weeks, you never want to write a paper again. She does not care for your situation, so no late work.
-Expects you to buy several books from the bookstore totaling to $400 dollars, if you buy them from somewhere cheaper you get a 0 -Doesn't care for personal situations, don't bother to message her -Absurd grading; asks for 1 paragraph on an author's background and complains about a paragraph not being enough information -Shouldnt be a professor.
Horrible professor, please stay away from her as she cares more about grading your papers and discussions writing format as opposed to actually teaching history. Shes like a glorified english teacher. Awful grader loves to trust her AI detector. More than half of the class dropped her. She tries making a straight forward subject hard for no reason.
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
76%
Textbook Required
50%
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B+
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-1.49 avg changeRatings by Course
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5.0
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5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
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