Mark will push you and seem like a jerk in the beginning - but if you do your classwork, he'll help you out in the end! Subjects of Digression: Gay Rights, Baseball and Skydiving. Start talking about these subjects and you won't have anymore time for the lecture.

Gave many good pointers for giving a good speech. Provided lecture notes online that directly mirrored his tests that were easy and short(25 questions).

Merkley was a great teacher! he was fun, interesting, and made class a great experience! I would totally suggest taking him for public speaking. the tests are easy and he does a good job at giving you all the information you'll need. overall merkley is AWESOME!!

Merkley did a good job of exposing me to new ideas and helping me form my own opinions about issues.

Enjoyed the discussions in class

I really enjoy Merkley's classes, thought they are not for everyone. If you are willing to show up to class every day and are somewhat smart you should get a B with little effort. He gives you excellent study guides for each tests.

This professor is strict, but fair and his door is always open. Very good to know if you're a comm student. Very wise.

Merkley is a great teacher. I learned so much from him, many people think he is rude but his goal is to get people to be more open minded to subjects and ideas, after all this is a communications course. He will push you to be the best communicator you can be. If you are thick skinned and not easily offended you will love Merkley.

SHOW UP TO CLASS! His grading is very subjective. He likes students to participate and ask questions. Staying after to chat is a bonus. He has a very open door policy. If you are going to miss class or miss an exam, tell him VERY early and you shall succeed. Don't procrastinate. Only things on exams are what he covers in review.

I took a class from Merkley 12 years ago at SLCC and now that I'm teaching myself (in graduate school), I've consistently 'stolen' his ideas and used them in my own lectures. His practices and his own skill at public speaking were memorable and helped considerably in the development of communications skills that are central to the work I do today.

it was a great class! get to know your classmates and you'll have fun! i learned a lot and his information was very helpful. the speeches are quite nerve racking but after your first two, they're easy! study the study guides and you'll ace the test!!

it was a great class! get to know your classmates and you'll have fun! i learned a lot and his information was very helpful. the speeches are quite nerve racking but after your first two, they're easy! study the study guides and you'll ace the test!!

Merkley was a great professor. At first I thought that we was going to be a jerk but he wasn't. Very helpful professor, listen to what he has to say and follow through with what he asks of you and you will do fine. The study guide notes are helpful when taking tests.

Kept class interesting. Make some friends fast in this class, because you will have to get into groups for the remainder of the semester. Group project required, but that was easy. Roughly 4 exams which are easy to pass. I didn't read the book and am still passing. There are 3 essays required that are 4 pages each. Overall, easy class.

The point of this class was to get people to think outside the box in a critical fashion. If you disagreed with his method of teaching, then you missed the point of the course. Go in with an open mind, religious or not, and you will do fine. The book will help you pass the tests better if you read it. Requires 4 papers in addition to the tests.

This was actually the second time I took a public speaking class. This time around, I decided to actually attent college. Merkley ended up being a penomenal influence not only for my public speaking but also for my other classes. He may be unclear sometimes and may forget to remind you of an assignment, but his dragon makes up for it.

My favorite professor

Almost dropped the class fist day because I didn't think i liked his personality, but glad I didn't. Class is a riot, lot of fun, absolutly no busy work. Its an easy class, but you have to be good to get an A. Lots of class interaction, never fall asleep in there. Be prepared to speak on high risk topics.Favorite class of the semester.

If you want an easy public speaking class, I wouldn't take him. He grades very fairly on your speeches. But if you really want to improve yourself, take Merkley. Really a class act and a riot to be around. One of my favorite classes, though I might have been the only person in the class to get an A...

Loved this [handsome] professor's class! He is fair when it comes to grading, I learned a lot in this class, even though it wasn't easy I'm glad I took his class because otherwise I don't think I would've tried as hard to evoke emotion when delivering my speeches. He has strong opinions but I see nothing wrong with him arguing for his point.

Merkley was very clear on the course requirements. The writing assignments were very clear on what he expected the contents to be (a full page of specific instructions). Advise I would give be open minded and try to throw out the "tunnel vision" of morality and try to see things from the other side. That,and speak up. Grades very fair.

I learned so much about Public Speaking that is actually useful! I used to be so afraid to speak in public and now it's a breeze :)

Very insightful teaching and experiences that derive from classes taught by Merkley. I reccomend to anybody who enjoys critical thinking and expression of opinion.

Merkely is a GREAT teacher. I have had him for two classes now, and I wish I could have him for another. Class is very fun and interesting. He is very opinionated which some people disliked, but I loved it. Tests are a breeze, and if you put time and effort into your speeches, they are a breeze as well.

Merkely was the best teacher I've ever had as far as information goes, his classes are awesome to go to! I had fun every time learning and listening...I was one of Merkleys "class pets" but he still gave me a C- on my final project (30% of grade) Broke my heart :/ *Anyways, I recommend EVERYONE take this class*

Merkley is the coolest instructor around. His class is very involved and you are caught up in a million different topics in one class period. Greatest class so far.

The first day of class, he wants to scare ppl. To see who will take flight or fight. By the third day the classroom dwindled. The second day I was so scared of him, but he's a sweetheart. He's not mean, he's a wonderful person with many interests. I haven't been graded yet, but I'm sure it will be harsh. As is expected, BUT he's so sexy!!!

Merkley is an awesome professor! I'll admit that I was intimidated by his reputation, but I think he uses it to his advantage to scare away people who are too lazy to think for themselves. He doesn't pull punches and he expects you to be able to think critically and express yourself. If you're too scared to take a class from him you're missing out!

Super cool! Grades fairly, just keep an open mind. Glad I took his class, my favorite all semester.

Merkley was a tough teacher. That doesn't mean you can't pass his class though. He makes you work hard, and doesn't let you slack off.

If you want an A, don't take this class. If you want to study public speaking and learn how to improve, then here it is. Merkley is intimidating at first and he is very opinionated and funny! I don't think he's a very fair grader though.

This is not an easy class, but the class atmosphere is very easy going. Merkley can be a harsh critic, but you can be sure that his evaluations are fair. He's opinionated and can go on forever, but if anyone doesn't like what he's saying they're welcome to speak up. After all, that's the point of the class.

I love his class. I will never forget what I learned. Funny and everyone gets involved in class.

Awesome teacher! He's super cool and grades fairly. Anyone who doesn't like him, probably dropped the class the first day! Best communications teacher hands down.

I loved this class! Before I took it I was terrified and I really ended up enjoying myself. I learned a ton about public speaking and I ended up getting an A, so it is possible. He grades exactly like he explains, so if you don't do well then you didn't do what was required. People need to quit whining and do the work! Merkley is awesome!!!

By far the best class I have taken in my college career. You learn a lot and Merkley challenges you to think. Overall, this is a behavior changing class that will teach you to work well within a group and simply understanding the world a little better.

Very good teacher but i would not recommend taking this class online. I would have done a million times better if i had a lecture type atmosphere. He is a good teacher over all! GO skydiving with him!:)

Merkley is an excellent instructor. READ his lecture notes because it will give you the answers to his tests. Smart man who is very good at what he does. he is not as scary as the other reviews lead you to believe. Its jsut that he wants you to think. I would retake the class if I had not already graduated.

You can't be easily offended and take this class. There will be joking and a few crude remarks. But the guy knows what he is talking about. He will help you with anything. Don't get scared off the first week. Just prepare your speeched. You earn your own grade in this class.

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Professor Merkley; he is a tough teacher, but he genuinely wants the best for every one of his students. If you put in the work in his class he will take notice. Engage in discussion. Be willing to speak often and speak intelligently and you'll do fine.

I took this online, as public speaking terrifies me. The discussions during our meeting times were engaging and fun. Don't be easily offended, and keep an open mind and this class will be enjoyable. Write your speeches according to the lecture notes and the text, and you'll get the grade. I thoroughly enjoyed this class!

He is a great teacher. He does grade hard but if you are willing to put in the time for test,4 essays, and coming to class you should be able to do well. He does challenge everyones viewpoints to make you really think. in his class as he likes people who participate in class discussions. HIS CLASS WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE TAKE IT!

Mark Merkley wants to make you think, question everything and test yourself! Count on having to defend your postions and opinions! Great class!!

Mark Merkley is an AMAZING professor! Some complain that he is intimidating or unfair. UNTRUE! He is intense, knows his topics inside out and isn't afraid of controversy. He is very approachable, and while he will certainly argue with you, his goal is for students to stand their ground with competent communication and facts. LOVED THIS CLASS!

Great! Take this class!

best teacher I had all semster, really great He's a tough grader so if u want an easy A dont take him. hes offsevine, a harsh crtic but he knows his stuff. can go off on rants a little but overall an amazing professor

Merkely is a great teacher. He truly wants students to take something away from his class that may or may not be the information on the test material. Tests are easy but he grades written assignments and projects very hard. You can't go into his class being easily offended either.

I took a class from The Merk back in 2000 when I was in hs doing concurrent enrollment. I thoroughly enjoyed his personality and sense of humor. Always in a cheerful mood. I knew if I had a chance to take another class from him I would. "Offense is only taken, never given." -Mark Merkley I will remember this quote the rest of my life.

Proff. Merkley is a great teacher.

He made this class fun and entertaining! He always seemed to make jokes out of everything he said keeping my attention! He may grade tough but as he says in the beginning it is only because he loves us and wants us to go further in life. He really understands what he is teaching and as long as you pay attention you can pull a good grade.

He is a critic but also very interesting. Believe in God? he pretty much makes fun of him. Merkley goes on a lot of rants If you're going into communications... then you're going to be his favorite.

Merkley is a great teacher! He is very blunt and straightforward but also very funny and makes class interesting. This was my favorite class so far. The tests are easy, you use the book but its cheap, papers are easy, and a group project. Go in with an open mind and speak up in class, you will get a lot out of the class if you do that.

Merkley is an outstanding instructor. Don't listen to the other comment about Merkley playing favorites with comm. majors--NOT true! He favors the ones who work hard and think for themselves. He is not for the faint hearted. He's tough, but you'll learn so much and thank him later for opening your mind.

I took this course online and was concerned about having to travel to the university for presentations. Merkley may be a lot to handle and overwhelming for the conservative of heart, but he was a great professor. He was VERY flexible with working around my schedule for speeches. I never heard him say he wouldn't give his online course A's.

This class is THE BEST class I have taken at WSU. I took it my first semester as a Junior and had so much fun! You WILL think in his class, you WILL be the center of attention, and you WILL be subject to controversial topics, but he is AMAZING! Merk, I know you read these and desire a chili....so enjoy! :) :) :)

Mark Merkley is a great teacher!! He has his opinions and is sticking to them, but he definitely puts your brain to work! He is a very fair grader, but doesn't offer a lot of out of class help. Just study & put forth effort & you'll be fine! Awesome guy!!

Merkley's class will push you to think and challenge the ideas you were born into thinking are true. It's great. You have to be really stupid to get anything less than an A-B+ in his class. Tests are easy, gives you a format for the outlines, and grades on CONTENT not only the presentation.

As long as you show up it's very easy to get a good grade. You have to give a few different speeches but he has all the information on how he is going to grade them in the workbook you buy for $2. He has four tests that are more like quizzes. If you just study the Study Guides he puts on Canvas, you should be able to get 100%.

Professor Merkley may not be the easiest teacher you ever have. He definitely expects you to work for your grade. However, he is extremely willing to work with you if you need help. He is supportive, hilarious and it was a joy to be in his class. Absolutely my favorite professor in college so far, and possibly my favorite teacher ever.

Prof. Merkley is amazing. He is highly inspirational, motivated, and intelligent. I have taken two classes from him and both were filled with fun humor and great perspectives. His engaging teaching style is completely different than the usual lecture taking note style. I have learned so much, that I will take with me beyond school.

Really great professor. He scared the crap out of us the first day of class. DO NOT BE LATE! That is a HUGE biggie for him. Overall is a great professor. You'll get the grade you deserve so don't expect to not put in any effort and still get a good grade.

Professor Merkley is a very knowledgeable teacher. He focuses on preparing you real-world situations. His opinions and views may be different from yours, but his points are very strong to persuade your views. He grades the papers strictly (looks for grammars and typos). He also has a very good sense of humor. One of the best professor I have had.

Merkley is seriously one of the best teachers ever. His teaching methods are a bit extreme, but effective. He expects you to participate and makes lectures fun. His main priorities are not his student's grades, but he wants his students to actually take something from this class for real life situations. Would definitely take again.

Really great professor!! Class is fun and you get to know the people in your group very well but make sure you do the work. The subjects in class are fun. NOT AN EASY A. The grade depends on your group..

He's interesting, to say the least. VERY passionate about his opinions, so beware, for they may often differ from yours. DO NOT BE LATE!! HOWEVER, if you do show up and work hard, he will treat you like one of his crown jewels. He is a phenomenal public speaking teacher, so learn from him.

Merkley is the toughest professor I have ever had, but he is also my favorite. You will give a total of 4 speeches, and it takes hard work to prepare. He grades harsh and comes off as arrogant. But put in the effort, ask for feedback, and he will love you. I was the worst speaker in the class but came out as the best. Make your goal the showcase.

Prof. Merkley is incredible. He is passionate about public speaking and makes writing and presenting speeches easy. He regulates potentially controversial discussion well and encourages students with constructive criticism and smart questions. All assignments clear, he is available outside of class, criteria is clear but he is harsh grader.

He's a tough grader. Deal with it. Do the dang work and make sure you are doing what you are told to do. The idea of the class is to make you feel uncomfortable. He told me once that communication is to seek meaning and understanding. Do it. A good man and is willing to help as long as you put effort. Suck it up buttercup and you'll do fine.

This guy is a legend. Was he crazy? Yes. Does he cross the line? Absolutely. But did he make class entertaining? 100%. I would recommend taking this class if you want to broaden your public speaking skills while being entertained. If you can take a joke take this class.

Merkley is one of my favorite professors yet, he is honest and he truly teaches you how to elaborate better when you speak, we talk about very controversial topics which is awesome, very eye opening class. He grades speeches hard, but tests not as hard. This class has truly helped me with speaking and with seeing the outside world in a better way.

MERKLEY IS THE BEST! He helped me with my communication skills so much over the course of our time together and I could feel my speech giving abilities get better with every speech. Merkley talks about the real stuff in class. He says what he believes and wants us to give speeches on what be believe also! He makes SHOWCASE WINNERS!!!