Maria De Las Carreras
Cinema & Television Arts - California State University - Northridge
3.8
Quality3.5
Difficulty65%
Would Retake170
Reviews65%
Would Retake
170
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
88
4
31
3
7
2
26
1
18
What Students Say
“WORST PROF I've EVER had”
CTVA309 - 2.0 rating“If you read and pay attention, this class is a breeze”
CTVA309 - 2.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
98%
Textbook Required
20%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B+
Grade Distribution
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Declining
-0.71 avg changeRatings by Course
CTVA415H
5.0
(1)MCOM500
5.0
(2)MEDIA400
5.0
(1)FTV200
5.0
(2)CTVA501
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
MCOM500
5.0
CINEM3
5.0
CTVA409
4.5
MEDIA400
4.0
FTV200
4.0
Reviews (170)
Not all the films are good, but the ones that are good are really really good! Even the bad ones are at least interesting. The professor is extremely passionate about the subject and it really rubs off on the students!
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She was by far the worst teacher ever. Avoid at all costs, you will not understand a word she says and you feel like she really doesn't know what shes talking about.
Do NOT take this teacher. Trust me on this. She is incomprehensible and knows NOTHING about the subject. I didn't learn one thing from her. You will want to take your own life if you take her class.
One of the most intelligent women I have ever met. If you are looking to learn something, take her...if you think you can slide through a 400 level course, think again. Because she does just that--makes you think! I am currently taking another course from her and am just as happy.
Smart-Passionate-Friendly, The best teacher I've had. I learned so much. She makes you think and makes you a better person. If you show up ready for class she is an easy A. She gives ample extra credit for even the laziest student to pass. Those who don't like her just want to make a film, not learn, don't bother. If you want an education-TAKE HER!
Hard to understand, talks down to her students, makes you feel inferior and makes you hope the class lets out early. Her handwriting is incomprehensible on all assignments when it comes to feedback, assignment sheets are vague and don't really explain what she wants. Can't remember students names, even the ones she always calls on.
Maria Elena is a wonderful instructor and an amazing person. She is so passionate about the material that it's hard not to join in her enthusiasm, and she puts films into a historical context which makes their study and viewing a more rich experience. She's a brilliant woman who loves learning and requires the same of her students.
This class is designed for graduate screenwriting students to develop a critical approach to analyzing films. The assignments are creative and extremely beneficial--you will come out of the class confident in your research skills, and with a more articulate perspective on film. Always available to students, she is an amicable person to speak to.
This class focuses on the areas of genre and authorship. My class benefited greatly from the professor's encyclopedic knowledge on genre, especially westerns. Her expertise, along with the students' freedom to explore their areas of interest, makes for a challenging and very fun class to be a part of.
Best film history professor I have ever had. Those who say that she doesn't know what she is talking about obviously wanted to watch Star Wars, ID4, and Paerl Harbor and had no idea what to do when confronted with true art!
There were a lot of times when she embarrassed students, putting them on the spot in a non light-hearted manner. Which is strange, because if you talk to her one-on-one, she seems like the sweetest person in the world. If you're not sure how good a writer you are, DO NOT take this class. Essays are the bulk of the grade.
She gives a ton of work, but she doesn't go over much of the homework assignments in class. She is very vague on what she wants for the assignments, and the tests. You find out what she wants only when you do it incorrectly. Pay attention to her "adjectives", because those will give you a clue as to what she will look for in assignments. If you can
although very challenging, professor de las carreras does a good job challenging us to actually do better as film critics. She doesn't take our easy, contrived answers and actually makes us dig deeper so we can actually be proud of contributing something coherent and slightly intelligent. She is not the teacher for the lazy student....
I am a Business Law Student and personally I thought I wouldnt enjoy the class; However I found it very useful and I learned alot. The professor is strict, but a very good person. I would def recommend the class.
Prof. Carreras is a VERY passionate teacher. She loves her field, and expects your enthusiasm too! This is NOT an "easy A" class: requires actual work. Carreras seems like a hard person, but only because she's very passionate and principled. I learned a lot in this class. I have a newly found appreciation for film and lit thanks to her passion.
I've heard stories of yelling at people and this and that. Honestly, she's not that bad. If you do the work and go to class, you're gold! Writing good papers helps too. Just a little note: keep up on the homework or you'll have a lot to do at the end of the semester!
Professor Carreras is one of the most passionate teachers you'll ever encounter. Her love for her job is very evident and if you can even feign a handful of interest she'll engage you. Stay on top of homework and keep an eye on the syllabi. As long as you put in solid effort, you'll perform greatly. Prof. Carreras' is someone I defintely recommend.
The Cinema 3 course taught by Professor Maria Elena de las Carreras at LACC during the Spring 2009 semester provided an excellent overview of the history of the motion picture. Her presentation materials were well-structured and her lectures were delivered with precision and clarity. Top notch Professor/top notch class!AG/LACC/June 2009
Cinema3 at LACC with Prof. de las Carreras was simply incredible. This class is for serious film students, not for the lazy-minded nor flakes. Her knowledge on the history of film is intimidatingly broad and deep. Yet her interaction with students with both personal and professional. This is the class to take for true film majors.
Cinema3 at LACC with Prof. de las Carreras was simply incredible. This class is for serious film students, not for the lazy-minded nor flakes. Her knowledge on the history of film is intimidatingly broad and deep. Yet her interaction with students is both personal and professional. This is the class to take for true film majors.
Prof. de las Carreras commandeered our class shortly after our instructor of record had an accident. She proved to be one of my favorite professors at UCLA (I'm a grad student and attended as an undergrad too). De las Carreras really takes an interest in her students and is a great motivator. Plus, she really knows her stuff. A+ all the way.
The class focuses on adapting literature into film. She really cares about the subject and her students. Expect to do a lot of reading and watching movies. Only two (easy) papers and two (easy) tests and the semester is over. I enjoyed most of the movies that we had to watch and enjoyed all of the books we had to read. I recommend.
Shes not as rude as people make her out to be, but shes not the friendliest either. If you talk too much, she probably will humiliate you. Do NOT take this class unless you know that you are a great writer. If not, you will probably do horrible in this class, because she does NOT grade easily on essays and they make up the bulk of your grade.
I went into UCLA's FTV106C loving foreign films and came out of it loving it even more. Professor de las Carreras spends a great deal of time generating interest for the films that are shown in class, as well as encouraging discussion about global cinema and their relation to the world at large. A thoroughly enjoyable class by all accounts!
DO NOT TAKE HER CLASS AT LAMC!!! Gives you assignments 2 - 4 days LATE!! She gives more homework than ANY of your classes COMBINED!!! She expects you to DEVOTE ALL YOUR TIME to HER CLASS! She asks everyone if they did their homework. If not, be prepared for public humiliation & MORE WORK! She talks down to all her students & made to feel inferior!
This teacher is horrible. condescending and irrational. she thinks everyone who steps in that class is a film major and acts as if her class is the only class one is taking. She will personally assign individuals more homework if they fail to turn in assignment. Stay away.
A wonderful class! Prof. de la Carreras has an immense passion for, and knowledge of not just documentary films, but cinema in general. The one required book is an easy read, and very useful for the exams. There are weekly assignments that are intended to help foster discussion each week in class, do them! Two papers, two exams, all very fair.
if you're looking for an easy class and a teacher who will not challenge you, then this class is NOT for you!. De Las Carreras is an amazing teacher who gives a breakdown not just of different modes of documentary but of the history and various iconic figures. She responds to emails and challenges students for a reason, to see our potential.
I took her last semester at LAMC and I think she is one of the best they have. Very few professors speek of their subject with great passion and she is one of them. Not an easy class but she helps you out alot. A+
This class is a great class if you're interested in documentary b/c she is incredibly passionate about the genre. Beyond that, Professor de las Carreras is incredibly kind and understanding. I struggled towards the end of the semester being sick all the time, and she never punished me for it. Incredibly sweet to me always
Teacher's knowledgable about the subject and grades you in a fair manner. Documentaries are rather dull but given their historical context they are important to know if you are a true film major. Only complaint is that a few times the teacher spent too much time and checking homework which takes away class time for those whole actually did the hwk.
Professor de las Carreras is an awesome teacher. She takes great pride in the work that she does and is very engaging. The assignments were not hard but are mandatory. Attendance is mandatory. I was sick throughout the semester and Professor de las Carreras was way helpful. She was very prompt when being emailed and was very understanding! A++
Smart and passionate, she is one of the best professors I've ever had. She expects the best from her students and with her contagious enthusiasm for the subject you really want to prove yourself to her. Even if attendance wasn't mandatory I would still come to every class just because I took away something new and fascinating from every lesson.
Pro. Maria Elena is passionate and knowledgable about the history of documentary film making. Those who want to learn about the subject will love her class, those who are apathetic will hate it. I appreciate her style of teaching, and I know that this class will forever influence my film career.
FALL 2011 DOCUMENTARY FILM Class was difficult, but rewarding. Truthfully took the class just to get credits on my IGETC transfer list. Alot of self-studying is required for the midterm and final. Student should be able to write good analysis papers. There is a plethora of material, but with dedication an A is possible. All up to you...
Mrs. Carreras is an incredibly knowledgeable, succinct, and passionate instructor. Her lecture style is so precise and well-paced, notes can be taken, highlighting her clear points, without the aid of powerpoints. She is a great addition to the New York Film Academy faculty, and a valuable asset to anyone interested in art and commerce of cinema.
Professor de sas Carreras is brillant. She instructs the historic and modern aspects of documentary with unrelenting zeal. Films viewed in class are essentials for film students training to become documentarians. Upon completing the course, you will possess broad knowledge of subgenres and film economy. Lectures are informative and riveting.
Professor de las Carreras is brillant. She instructs the historic and modern aspects of documentary with unrelenting zeal. Films viewed in class are essentials for film students training to become documentarians. Upon completing the course, you will possess broad knowledge of subgenres and film economy. Lectures are informative and riveting.
Professor Carreras is passionate about documentary filmmaking. I took her CTVA 416 Documentary Tradition class. She is engaged to the entire class and homework is straight forward. Everything you need to know for her class is on her website. Above all she inspires her students' interest in the history and modern contexts of documentary filmmaking.
Take this class!!! The professor is super nice, and easy to talk to. I learned so much from this class. You really don't know just how easy and infinite the possibilities are of documentary filmaking, until you take this class! I would love to take another class with this professor. I would recommend this class to my friends.
Best professor! She is so cute because she loves what she teaches, she loves her students, and she loves film. She knows what she talks about and teaches with ease. She grades tough, but only because she expects the best from her students. Take her for any class and you will learn from the best!
Great prof.! She is very insightful and you can see the passion she has for film studies from the first day. Very interesting way of looking at films. I learned a lot in this class, although I regret not bringing my A game. If you're looking to actually learn something and not just take a seat in the classroom, this class is for you.
Professor de las Carreras is great! She is really passionate about film. She presents and discusses ideas very clearly. You will be watching movies in this class but it is not an easy class. She expects every student to put in a lot of effort and she doesn't accept mediocre work. She will help you if you show interest in the material and the class.
WORST PROF I've EVER had! Condescending and unorganized. notes are all over the place. be prepared for attendance everyday and she will personally check with every student to make sure hw is done... if not. prepared to be embarrassed. doesn't hand back homework till last day of class and all criticism is non constructive.
Very helpful teacher and most important of all she is passionate about documentary film making. If you want to learn how to make documentaries you need to take this class!
Prof. de las Carreras is a passionate instructor. She teaches "Film as Lit" and makes the broad subject understandable. She explains adaptation process and exposes students to variety of source material. She goes out of her way to connect with/help students. She challenges and makes you work, something I found rewarding! Taking her again for docs.
Passionate prof. She will expand your mind to documentaries from US and foreign filmmakers. She is caring, and is open to help anyone willing to ask. If you do the homework and reading you are set. Do not take her if you lazy. You will waste her time and yours.
Professor Carreras is one of a kind. She will test you to see if you are a dedicated student. Her dedication and passion for her classes is incomparable to most instructors I've had. If youre looking to succeed through hard work and dedication,Than look no further, Dr. Carreras is one you will gain something from and feel good about it!
De Las Carreras is one of the most helpful professors at CSUN. One of the few that takes the time to get know her students and will truly work with to have a good experience in her class. Show up to class and enjoy her lectures and you will have no problem getting through this class.
I took Professor's 416 Documentary class this semester and I can safely say I learned way more than I expected. This class isn't for people who want to just take a class and try to bear through it. It is for people with a genuine interest in documentary filmmaking and Professor de las Carreras packs as much information she can into the timeslot.
Clearly very passionate and well-versed in her subject, but not the best at conveying some of the more complex information to people who aren't already experts on the subject. rambles and complicates unnecessarily . made a fascinating subject somewhat dull. however if you show up, participate and can write OK then you should be fine.
She is a wonderful professor with a clear passion for cinema and literature. She does have an accent but it's very understandable. The course workload wasn't bad consisting of a simple homework assignment every week (not due until test days), a few essays, a midterm, and a final. The class may seem like a lot but it's very interesting.
Professor de las Carreras has great passion as well as deep knowledge about the subject of documentary films. She rightfully expects professionalism from her students so do not come late to class or be disrespectful. Show up prepared and ready to take part in discussions about the assigned reading. She inspires and you will learn a lot!
Do not take this class if you're looking for an easy A. The professor is fair if you show up to class and do the assignments. You'll pass as long as you pay attention.
I have taken a couple film classes, and I was excited to see that this class satisfied an upper GE requirement, but I have been very disappointed in this class. There was no relationship between film and literature, but focused on the film aspects instead. We hardly ever looked at the texts and discussed them in class.
Professor De Las Carreras is an amazing encyclopedia of knowledge. She has been a great mentor and teacher. She really wants her student's to succeed. I took her for 2 classes 416 and 309. If you're taking 309 as an elective don't expect it to be an easy A. You will get what you put in. Be prepared, show up, do your homework and participate
This class is only tough if you make it difficult for yourself, do the readings, you're not putting the whole text book to use, just a few chapters. Most of the reading you do is from the other assigned novels or short stories. If you're unsure about something just ask, she'll be clear and make sure you understand.
long lectures, often goes off topic. VERY passionate about the topic. be ready to dedicate time to reading, six full novels in one semester plus other assigned readings/and or videos. If you know a lot about film youll love this class, for GE students I think it was a little heavy.
Excellent Professor! Truly loves Litereature and Film and passionate about teaching! Take this class and you will learn from an enthuastic professor.
Kind of a... well, you get it. If you read and pay attention, this class is a breeze. However, she can but unclear in what she assigns and on a couple of occasions was unwilling to debate on her lack of clarity. Likes to embarrass students on occasion. Just not a nice lady in class. Outside of class I'm sure she's sweet, but not in class.
Abysmal. As Mark Twain would say,"never argue with an ---- they'll pull you down to their level and beat you with experience"
The course she teaches is pointless. Her teaching style needs adjusting. Calls out ppl and degrades them. Not taking her again
Will spoil films for you. She loves to get distracted by her own powerpoint, bring up a film, and completely ruin it. She has done it for films TWISTS such as Gone Girl. She also lectures 40 minutes too long and we never finish a film. Also, she calls out people on semantic issues and calls them stupid or ignorant, and quite often. Bad taste too
She is a great professor and makes you work hard, but as long as you do your works in this class, you will be fine. In midterm and final exams, she looks for you have connection with topic in the class, so they must be easy. If you are a student likely to skip class, don't take her class. You should be very prepared for every class.
Prof. Carreras is extremely knowledgeable, engaging & thorough in her lectures. She expects her students to pay attention, participate & do their work (research). She lets you know what to read & what to watch, but many expects to only watch entire movies during the class. Hers is not a popcorn class! Overall, she is a great professor. Recommended!
This is not an easy class. There is a lot of reading from the textbook but also from articles you have to read for class. You have to come prepared! The lectures may seem out of place but she really does follow the book and she expects you to participate. She does not want slackers in her class you fail her class and you'll probably be miserable.
This was the hardest class I have taken. There is a lot of homework every week and she follows the book. There is a lot of reading so be prepared. This class is no joke. If you think you can idle by in this class YOU ARE WRONG. There is a lot of work to be done and there is no time for that type of student in this class because you WILL FAIL
This is a film course to analyze adapted films are going to be spoiled that is the purpose of this class. She is very knowledgeable in her field. So be prepared for class do the reading and the homework because that ends up being your study guide for the exams. She will treat you like adults holding you responsible for your actions so be ready!
Maria is an extremely knowledgeable professor who seems to know a little bit of everything. Her classes were always really interesting and the films/novels studied in the class ended up being great reads. There will be a lot of reading in the class for the weekly assignments and she is a tough but fair grader. She will help students who try!
Very knowledgeable in various field which was really impressive. Each class was a learning experience, she truly cares and clearly wants us to think. Wether or not we have the right answer, she likes participation and engaging in various discussions. 2 tests, 2 papers. very straightforward and she is here to help. Best professor i've had in a while
I really enjoyed taking her class. Not an easy subject, but she makes sure everybody learns something new. Prof. de las Carreras is very passionate about the class and cares about every student. The lectures are very interesting and I learned a lot!
Professor Carreras definitely knows what she's doing. She's well versed in the film industry and knows more than one would need to know about the field. If you're serious about film, take her, and take her seriously. If you joke around in this class, you'll fall flat on your face. But if you pay attention and try, you'll succeed.
Professor De las Carreras, is a great professor who is very knowledgeable in her field. Her credits as a woman in the entertainment industry are astonishing, in short words she knows what she is teaching. It is true that she is a very tough professor and she occasionally will call you out if you're not doing your part as a university student.
Prof. De las Carreras is a wonderful person and one of a kind. She gets to know the students very easily and is a delight to be taught by her. Inbetween viewing clips or full films in class Prof. De las Carreras lectures are fascinating because of her gigantic passion for film. She is helpful, caring, very knowledgeable, and eager to share it.
Apart from being a knowledgeable cinephile, Professor de las Carreras knows quite a lot about literature, too. For this class, you definitely need to enjoy both cinema and literature to be engaged, or at least an open mind to appreciate them. You'll read many essays by scholars, but don't be intimidated: Professor de las Carreras is there to help.
One of my favorite professors at Northridge and one of the best. She knows the course very well and teaches with personality, without needing to read off of notes. Since this is a 400 level class, the lectures are a supplement to the reading. Most of the learning for the course will be done on your own and she expects you to come to class prepared.
Ok her class is simple but it will be tough. 2 exams, written heavy but has mullt. choice. The professor is snarky on certain viewpoints but that is fine; just agree. The essays she assigns are not hard but ask for help as they don't feel well explained as they are. She does help you but you also have to understand that she is a tempered one.
She is very knowledgeable and passionate about the subject which makes the class more enjoyable. She is readily available if you need help and wants her students to succeed. She always offers extra help when needed and gives very good feedback if asked.
Professor Carreras is nothing short of an intellectual with a passion for film. You are graded on Attendance, Homework, 2 Tests, and 2 Papers. She will call on you to participate in discussions, so do the homework! If you are caught not doing the homework, you will have a tough time. If you are looking for an easy A, this is not the class for you.
She has personality and is very knowledgeable in what she's teaching. As long as you pay attention in class, participate a little, and do your homework/turn it in on time, then you should be fine.
Prof de las Carreras has a passion for film that comes through obviously in her lectures. She's from Argentina and offers a more global view of the subject than American, which is pretty cool. She can be blunt with her feedback and doesn't really care if she's discrete about it or not, which can sometimes be scary, but ultimately I'd recommend her.
She's tough but do the work, pay attention & she'll be fair. Homework due every class & lots of reading. Articles are interesting & lectures are informative but require class participation. She will single you out if you don't do the work. 1 research paper, midterm and final are straight forward if you study. No book required-she provides it free
Very knowledgable of subject matter and strong desire for students' success. Can give harsh but very truthful and helpful constructive criticism. Wants to bring the best out of her students. As a film major, I was grateful to have her but can see why those who are just taking the class because "they have to" may view her as too harsh.
This is a film lit class so obviously there's going to be plenty of reading but we saw the film adaptations of them which was interesting to compare. We also discussed the readings and films a good deal. We shared our opinions so having an open mind is critical. She also gives great opportunities for those who want to step into the film industry.
Never hated a professor more she goes on hour long tangents not relating to the subject matter wasting my time and money.
Time-consuming homework for EVERY class. If she finds out you didn't do the work (she will!), it will reflect in your grade and she will be vocal about it publicly. She is quite intense in her teaching, so taking her class is stressful even for students who like to participate. I would not recommend taking her for CTVA100, it's not a fun class :(
I took this class with her because somebody recommended her, and at the beginning I didn't understand why, since there seemed to be a lot of homework and reading. However, she made me like a class that I didn't think I would. The lectures were mostly interesting and relevant, and she clearly makes an effort so that students can learn!
Great professor. If you communicate what's going on when missing an assignment or deadline, you will be okay in the end of the class. Just communicate, be poised with attendance and make sure you know the material. She will CALL ON YOU IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYONE!!!!! AND YOU WILL BE WRECKED if you don't know lololol. Overall, it's a good class tho.
She is great, but looks for students who put forth effort and want to succeed. If you are late without telling her, miss an assignment, or talk during class you will be publicly called out in front of everybody. If you are on time, do every assignment, and participate in discussion you will have a great experience and easily do well.
The syllabus was not complete, it was updated weekly so planning out the semester was stressful. Lectures were pointless, she was easily distracted, I only attended them for attendance points. Prof also put me on edge the entire time because she would call out students and then rant about them for 20 minutes. Made an already boring class difficult.
She's meant to be an academic, not a professor. No consistent grading rubric, off-track lectures, and a very unpleasant in-class experience. She seems to have no clue that being a more agreeable person would make students enjoy her teaching a lot more.
De las Carreras can be a bit condescending at times, I think she forgets that we aren't children. However, I really loved her. She gives a ton of homework but the reason is to teach you study methods that work and how to use the library to access scholarly sources which honestly helped me so much.
2nd hardest class I've taken at CSUN. She knows the subject, but her lecturing style has a critical flaw: She teaches by asking questions, and the class simply doesn't have the knowledge to answer them. Calls on students at random. As others have said, the class experience was unpleasant and always had me on edge. Weekly time consuming HW.
Her lectures are incredible and filled with so much passion. You can tell she honors her craft in cinema really well. However her class is definitely not an easy A. Your effort level will reflect your grade.
She is one tough cookie no doubt! You have to pay attention,participate, and work for your grade. At first, I was not pleased because she will call you out if youre not up to par, but overall she has good intentions and cares about her students. I would take her class again only because I understand how she works and what she is looking for.
Yes be ready to put in lots of work and participation. She may seem pretty tough but overall she means the best. If youre looking for an easy A this is not the right class for you. You definitely learn a lot from the work she makes you put in, some appreciate it some dont. Be ready to be called on as well, it really helps if you do the HW
This class is really good and hard so be ready to do homework every week. You must earn your grade . In this class attendance is mandatory so if you dont like going to class please dont take this class you will be wasting your time because this class is awesome and you will learn a lot. Professor Maria De las Carreras is a great teacher.
She gives good feedback and really teaches you about the subject you are learning. I would always recommend taking her course if you want to really learn about the subject. Don't take it as an easy A, because that won't happen. If you apply yourself you can gain a lot of insight and she is also SUPER helpful with out of class stuff so talk to her!
I gained a lot from this teacher. She makes a great effort to keep her teachings as modern as possible and constantly updated with the times. Her whole style is based on what's going on in the world outside of class. Love it. Listening is key. She goes on tangents but they all are completely relevant to the class. Do homework she calls on you.
The professor really challenges you to think critically and come prepared to class. Not for lectures and participation, but to have a deep understanding to be able to make the most of your education. Had her for two semesters. Both times helped me realize I need to pick myself up as this is a reflection of how I'll be after university.
She gives hw weekly and says it's due next class, but at the end she doesn't look at it. She gets out of topic and is passive aggressive with her students. I barely feel like I learned something. Final is based on the book and tons of papers done every week.
Professor de las Carreras is the best professor Ive had the pleasure of having at CSUN. The class is informative and very much based on critical thinking. Attendance and participation are mandatory and her lectures are always relevant. The class is very doable as long as you put in the effort and participate. Very fair grading and easy to contact.
We had class once a week and she would lecture on whatever chapter of the textbook or movie we watched for homework. I learned absolutely nothing in the lectures because she rambles so much. When it came to grades, I didnt do bad but she never inputted grades into Canvas and I never knew how I was doing in the class. Overall, I dont recommend her
She has a way of teaching and is great at communicating with students. Shes helpful and dedicated to her profession.
I've taken this professor twice, and both times she has been an eye-opener. You need to be active in her class, as she will call on people to answer questions from the homework. It's easy to fall behind in her class because things are due weekly but turned in on exam days. She goes out of her way to let the films shown be free or extremely cheap.
Professor de las Carreras is a wonderful professor! I thoroughly enjoyed her class and learned a ton. She is extremely knowledgeable and provides great insight. Her lectures are always interesting and remain relevant to current events/news. The class is not too difficult as long as you come to class prepared and participate in discussions.
If you want to really learn take this class. The course is well paced as long as you keep up with the weekly reading and homework assignments. I would take other courses from this professor.
This class was challenging, but you learn a lot. You have to read weekly, but lectures are not only about the textbook but other topics related to film and media. Professor de las Carreras brings up many ideas and topics in her lectures, causing you to become a better thinker.
Professor de las Carreras makes her students think critically about the topics discussed during lectures. Be ready to discuss the films, videos, and readings assigned because you will get called on. As long as the assignments are completed before the lecture, the class is an interesting and eye-opening experience.
This course is challenging but inspirational. A lot of stuff to read. This is the only course I changed the grade mode to cr/non-cr instead of letter grades during my entire college life, but this is the course I learned the most. Professor de las Carreras is very knowledgeable and supportive. She is my favorite professor.
Professor De Las Carreras is very passionate about the subject area and cares that her students learn. She doesn't provide a rubric for papers, and the questions on her exams are poorly worded to the point of not even being intelligible. You earn participation points for contributing to class discussions, so definitely do the weekly homework.
Professor de las Carreras and her courses may feel daunting but she is a kind, intelligent, and insightful educator of the documentary tradition. Take this professor if you have the opportunity, she will challenge you and make you a greater student and filmmaker/researcher/analyst in the process.
Excellent learning experience. I was very impressed with here lectures. Always educational and inspirational. A true film critic with fantastic insights that really make you think.
Professor De Las Carreras wants students to think critically of films and literary works. This class has helped me to better understand the connection between the literary work and its film adaptation. A variety of literary works such as graphic novels and short stories were chosen. Interesting class.
I took Professor de las Carreras class in order to satisfy a GE requirement. She wasn't bad, it was very insightful and she wanted her students to learn something. If you needed more time with assignments she extended it and she didn't drown you with a bunch of reading and endless homework.
Professor De La Carreras may be one of CTVA's greatest professors! She may be a little intimidating, but her wealth of film knowledge is really inspiring. Although reading it is required, the textbook is one that every aspiring filmmaker should read. Professor De La Carreras does a wonderful job and I would gladly take her class again!
Shes very rude and unapologetic about the stuff to says about or to students during class time. She rambles on and on about random stuff during class time that has nothing to do with the subject/lecture. She gets mad whenever you ask a simple question that should have known already apparently and calls it wasting her time.
This professor is difficult to follow, she seems to ramble on about things for far too long. I think she's a bit too old-school. She can be unreasonable and rude. I'd say that a majority of my classmates never know exactly what is going on, including me. I have only learned things by reading the book due to our chapter outline assignments.
Be prepared to read around 50-100 pages every week and watch around 2 hr documentaries. Overall class is intresting just a lot of work. Also be prepared to not have mamy questions answered and for her lectures to be just her talking.
Professor Carreras seems knowledgable of the subject, but her lectures come off as film recommendations and tangents related to the subject than teaching it. Exams don't match w/ lectures (barely in textbook too) and hw is 20-50 pg of reading and 2 movie viewing a week + notes and 3 essays worth 60% of grade. Doable but least fav film class yet
Outline of 50-100 pages/week (you can copy the headings from the book) + documentary. Not a hard A, but tedious. Terrible lecturer. Rambles, disappointed when we can't answer questions unrelated to the reading. Assigned a guy extra work because he asked how to cite sources. Big on 'taking initiative' and not so big on answering questions kindly.
Professor De Las Carreras is a nice lady but she assigns way too much work for a pre-major class. Each week, students are expected to come to class having read and outlined 40-50 pages from a graduate-level textbook and watched two feature-length films. She then gets frustrated when only a handful of students are able to discuss the hw in class.
I had the honor of being in Professor De Las Carreras' class for History of American Cinema and I have to say that I have a much wider knowledge of this subject than I did prior to taking this class. Professor De Las Carreras challenges her students to think about the context of each era of American Cinema and to look at history without bias!
Professor de Las Carreras is extremely knowledgeable, carring, and passionate in her lectures. Her classes are composed of individual readings, in-person PowerPoint lectures, and in-class movie screenings. Taking her class has not only taught me a lot about movie adaptations, but also certainly opened my eyes for film appreciation in general.
This professor is very very bad at online teaching. She doesn't know how to use Canvas and the in-class discussions don't add much value to the material. Additionally, she doesn't grade on Canvas, in order to receive a grade in this class you have to individually email her after each paper submitted to be able to receive your grade (wo feedback)
90% of the class didn't enjoy it at all. She's passionate & loves documentary, but the way she lectures is incredibly boring. Constantly asks questions like "what happened in the 1950s", um idk.. a lot? Its like, we don't know what you're trying to get at lady! Condescending & gets mad when we don't engage. Weekly HW is time consuming but not hard.
Mind numbingly boring, but doable. Weekly hws usually an outline of a chapter and sometimes defining a word or looking for a source on the Oviatt library website (which you'll learn in class). 2 papers: a film analysis, & one of sources from the oviatt. 3 exams: multi choice + short responses. Prior weekly hws turned in at each exam so u got time.
DO! NOT! TAKE! HER! CLASSES!!! This woman is exceptionally outdated in her teaching. She makes things more difficult than they need to be because "that's how we learn best" - WHAT You will probably read around 70-100 pages of homework each week, including a written analysis, outlining all of the pages that you read. AVOID THIS PROFESSOR!
Professor De Las Carreras gets a lot of hate for being straight to the point and honest, but I appreciate that. She doesn't force the class to have one, unified opinion, but rather encourages the class to think for themselves. I've been enjoying her course a lot, as she has a great depth of knowledge on film history.
Do yourself a favor do not take this professor. Weird vindictive behavior, not engaging at all there's no wonder no one wants to answer her questions.
Yes, she is lecture heavy, and yes, it is not the easiest course in the world. But it's not impossible to do. The homework load is a bit high but she gives you a whole month to do it. Very nice professor that is very passionate about her work. There is a lot of knowledge to get from this class if you're open to take it.
I couldn't think how bad some of the professors are in this college, she is one of them. I liked her in the beginning until I ask for help and she tells me to read the syllabus and lectures me about my response not being professional. She is horrible and must change her attitude and ways of teaching.
She is very thorough in her lectures. Come to class having read the materials listed on the weekly homework assignments. Participation is important.
This professor is passionate about film, but idk if her passion for film translates all too well. Her tests have such confusing questions with answers that all look identical to each other. Homework consists of tedious outlines and she would berate students over tiny things. The type of prof that says "no one has ever gotten an A in this class"
This professor is well versed in cinema, but unfortunately this does not translate into educating students. The lectures are extremely long and confusing. There is a ton of homework and reading. And the multiple choice exams are very confusing, even if you study right before. I wouldn't recommend if you can avoid it.
This was my favorite class this semester! Professor de las Carreras is very inspiring and knowledgeable She also really cares about her students. I will say the class wasn't easy but I feel that I learned a lot which made it worth it. As long as you do the assignments and show up to class, you shouldn't get lower than a B.
CTVA 310 was a great class. The long class is divided by a lecture and a viewing (film or documentary). Be sure to read if you want to be able to answer questions and participate in class. Take notes during lectures even when the professor seems like they are just talking, it helps to pay attention because lectures are long. Tests not bad,2 papers.
Don't be scared away by negative reviews! The class is straightforward (read the syllabus lol). Professor has a witty humor and is very passionate about film! Do the required weekly readings, view the required films and you're good to go! Homework heavy if taking other classes but overall an enlightening course.
Professor Maria De La Carreras' passion for documentary filmmaking is infectious; she is highly knowledgeable in the subject and her class is designed to help you absorb the material. I highly recommend taking this class if you are even remotely interested in documentary filmmaking!
Material was interesting but lectures were long and mundane. She will call on you randomly about the material but also if you do something she doesn't like, such as making a face or yawning. Grades aren't updated until the end of the semester, so if you want to know how you're doing you'll have to ask her after class. Many errors for online parts
Really great experience with Professor Carreras. Fun lectures, shows you a lot of different films. Be prepared to do a lot of homework! Gives great feedback and I'd take her class again.
You have to really read the chapters and articles when they are assigned to stay on top. She is easy to talk to if there are any issues. She provides extra credit opportunities and regularly forwards internship information and screening invitations. Do your work, come to class, pat attention, be respectful and you will be fine.
The lectures were pretty long and boring, she just reiterates everything you had just read in the textbook. One of the rudest professors I have ever had, she will randomly call on students and humiliate them in front of the entire class for no good reason. this class was the bane of my existence.
I enjoyed the class, she was very passionate about the subject. She expects students to participate. There is a lot of reading to do. Be prepared, hold yourself self accountable for the work, this class will make you an active student and not a passive one. She can be very understanding, just talk to her after class or email her ahead of time.
Prof. is very passionate about her field and makes it easy to engage in the material she's presenting. Lots of reading for homework (assigned every day but all due on the day of the corresponding exam) but manageable if you stay on top of it. Graded based on 3 major papers, homework, and attendance. 8/10
Professor Carreras is one of the best professors I had the privilege of taking at CSUN. Her class is very straight forward and should be an easy and fun class to take so long as you do your reading on time. Other than that you watch some amazing films and have even better discussions. Only downside is that her lectures can be kind of confusing.
She is a gem we must protect from soft students. The knowledge she has is remarkable. The material is something that would make you a great filmmaker. If you dislike her its because you haven't done your stuff, you are late, you are soft, you don't read, etc. WE NEED more professors like these. You people just want someone to hold your hand.
This professor is clearly passionate about the subjects she teaches and is very knowledgeable about them, but she is the most biased instructor I have had in my academic career. She mentions how much she likes capitalism in almost every class, and some of the films shown are practically propaganda. She did start some interesting discourse though.
Class is boring and her lecture's personally seemed pointless. Everything you learn is in the textbook so class is a bit pointless. Repetitive. Will randomly call on you so be ready for that. Can be rude at times. Talks about things going on in the real world and she does provide info for a lot of opportunities, which is why I didn't give her a 1.
I made a ton of film connections in this class which is 1 of the few good things I can say about it. She's a nice person but it doesn't translate in her classroom. She can be pretty rude at times. Her lectures were all over the place. Class was 2 hours and 45 mins long which added to the significant boredom. Her tests were written terribly.
If you're some movie expert/fan and absolutely are in love with cinema then sure take her. If all you need is GE credits this isn't the class for you. Sitting through 3 hours of film and writing about literature syncing into film is not very fun. Exams which are hard, and assignments every week are very dense. Don't even think about skipping class
Nothing. That's the only thing I can say to describe this class and Professor De Las Carreras's teaching. I learned nothing. I gained nothing. It's just nothing. She spent more time singling out students to humiliate than actually teaching us. I implore you to find another professor. I made a whole account to write this review.
As long as you pay attention to her lectures, don't stare at your laptop for too long, and never be on your phone, the class should be alright. Assignments are fine and not too difficult but can be quite confusing to understand. She would also start class 5-10 minutes early during the semester. Good Luck.
Her test wow, please be prepared for them and also read Get ready to read and know some of the stuff she does pick on you and expects you to know this stuff but if you do the work and also keep up, you should be fine but please be weary of using phones She doesn't like that when she is talking she will call it out especially with tech good luck!
Old school professor who is tough on students. She will pick on students who are not paying attention, on their phones, etc. and will remember who it is. She values participation and "thinking" Pay attention while she is speaking to avoid being singled out. Doing the textbook reading and attending lectures is necessary to pass quizzes.
Even though we didn't get along or see eye to eye, I will say that she actually teaches and knows very well the material. Her assignments definitely require lots of reading but it's worth it. She's lenient with absences if it's due to working on sets or an internship. If she sees you hustling, she'll connect you with people and great opportunities.
Lectures were 2 hours of her arguing with or calling people out, or just rambling about stuff unrelated to the course. The last 45 minutes she had us watch a movie and have us watch the rest at home. Homework takes 8+ hours to do and you get a new one each week. Besides quizzes, nothing is graded until the end of the semester.
Super knowledgeable about the hist of cinema and keeps updated on the current industry. It's helped me, post-taking the class navigate the film business. She gives a bunch of recs about internships and other fun opportunities like film festivals/ screenings, you just have to be ready to go for them. Really liked the class & learned so much.
This was my 2nd time taking Professor De Las Carreras. I thoroughly enjoyed both of her classes, her lectures are very informative and engaging, and she encourages class discussion. Her passion for the subject matter is evident in every lecture. If you come to class, do the readings/work, and participate, you will learn a lot AND get a good grade.
Her class is hard work and she has zero filter, but holy crap is she an amazing person. She clearly cares a lot about everything she talks about and she's the only professor to give early screenings and premieres to students for free. I've taken her twice and have gotten so many opportunities. Her class is a must imo.
I really like this professor. she talks about the subject with passion, and she encourages the class to think critical thinking. I would absolutely take class with her again.
There is a lot besides cinema you can learn and admire from Professor Maria de las Carreras, like her work ethic.
Professor Carreras is very knowledgeable and wants the best for her students.
This professor makes learning interesting I'm a CTVA major so I'm glad this was a class I chose to take! She's a very understanding professor and wants the best for her students. Easy class if you do the work and study for exams!
She's a tough teacher if you slack off. Make sure to communicate with her and you'll do fine in the class
Learned more talking to students in the class with me than from her. She's okay, just talks all class and most of it is unnecessary. Easy A so long as you show up and do the readings/homework every week. I don't recommend taking her class for film majors, she's kind of just a waste of time.
I really enjoyed her lectures. Long, but worth it in the end. As long as you respect her she will respect you. Also provided great opportunities for film festivals, etc throughout the semester.
While there was a bit of homework at times, though nothing unbearable. I thoroughly enjoyed her class and valued the things she had to say, if you want to improve your film craft this is a great teacher to learn from if you really listen.
Professor De Las Carreras is exceptional. Her thoughtful feedback, quick responses, and deep insights pushed me to think sharper, write better, and grow beyond my comfort zone. She challenges and supports in equal measure. Take her class - you won't forget it.
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100%
Attendance Mandatory
98%
Textbook Required
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