Dr. Clavin is an excellent professor, but BEWARE! You must write your papers on what HE would like to read - or you won't get a good grade. His tests are very difficult, but you will learn in his classes. If you write well and about a topic he approves, you will do well in his class.

Go to class (he will mark your final grade down if you miss too much), take good notes and the tests should be fairly easy. He's pretty interesting, but sometimes he will spring a pop quiz.

Clavin is a GREAT lecturer. He does assign a lot of reading and does expect you to do it. His tests can be difficult. His grading, on both tests and papers, is rather ambiguos and subjective. He does not like to give As but will give A-.

He gives you the multiple choice questions that are going to be on tests, and ocassionally the essay questions. Watch out for pop quizes...so read the chapters..but its an easy class if you understand stuff..his grader though takes points off for no reason.

very interesting teacher. hard tests, but if you pay attention and read the material you should do fine. double check your tests when you get them back, the grader he had when i was in the class had a habit of making a lot of mistakes. be prepared to go to every class, he doesnt take excuses.

Dr. clavin loves the subject he teaches and he's very good at it, keeps you wanting to go to the next class just to learn more.

Great online teacher. Way ahead of most in that he actually lectures online and provides visuals to make it more interesting. Also interesting texts even for non-history students like me. Strongly recommend. I bet his face-to-face classes are even better.

Pretty Cool but study hard!!!

this man is a great teacher, his class is so hard though, he loves the subject he teaches and is extremly good looking

Clavin is an amazing teacher. He makes History so interesting! Study like your supposed to and you'll get a good grade. I strongly recommend you take him.

Mr. Clavin was a wonderful teacher. He made things interesting and he had tones of energy every class session which was a great thing!

Absolutley amazing professor! Had no interest in history prior to class and left being very interested. Not an easy teacher...expects you to learn and be able to write in detail what you have learned but if you go to class and pay attention you will do well. Always has personal stories and keeps class interesting. Really an amazing professor!!!

Amazing class. attendance is not mandatory but if you want a good grade it is!!! take notes and read the chapters. he has office hours and there really useful so use em. his lectures are fun and I know look at life in a different way. my class was at 8:00am but it was my favorite, dont mis out on this class!!!!!

Great class!!!!! love his lectures it makes you look at life in a different way! you should go to class everyday and take good notes. he has office hours so use em!!! helps you prepare for the test. he uses real life stories and makes the class come alive. take this professor

He is a great teacher, very interesting and the work is very easy....If you go to class and take notes you will easily pass this class because he takes everything from his lectures....He is fun to listen to which makes it very easy to remember what he taught when it comes times for tests.....definately take one or more of his classes

i love this man. He is so interesting and funny. I have his class at 8:30 but I am always there, he is the reason i wake up in the morning. :)

Yes, he is very cute, but he wears the sweater vests. I thought that was funny. The books are pretty interesting that we had to read. It really helps if you read the chapters. The tests werent to difficult. He is also funny.

This class was one of the best I have taken at the University. Clavin has interesting lectures, youtube clips, and is passionate about Civil Rights. He does not like slackers, people sleeping, on their phones, etc. He wants your attention or go home. He wants class involvement and explains what will be on all the tests. Be prepared for pop quizzes.

Took him for several classes and a couple on the grad level. He is awesome and energetic! Love him!

Energetic, funny and engaging. Follow class rules(i.e., no cellphones, no sleeping, etc.) or he will embarrass you. Be sure to keep up with reading assignments, as Dr. Clavin likes to give pop quizzes. His office hours are convenient and he can be quite flexible. Take adequate notes, pay attention, and enjoy the personal stories and videos.

He knew his history. But his lectures become boring, and it is almost impossible to get an A on a test.

Great teacher, he's very interested in the material and charismatic. I enjoyed the class and thought it was fun. Tests and papers are graded harshly, so make sure you take awesome notes and read the book. I got an A on every test so it's not impossible, and I made an A in the class overall. He is a terrific teacher, you won't be disappointed!

Fantastic teacher! I was dreading taking this course and he made me want to take every history class he offers! He is passionate, inspiring, holds high standards for his students, is incredibly intelligent, one of the best professors I've ever had. He won't just hand you a good grade, you have to earn it, but its worth it. He is wonderful!

Get ready to be open about your opinions on readings. Be sure to read correctly and always do more research into topics mentioned in books- he's a great teacher, I love his presentations. British America was breeze to learn with him as a teacher. I scored well on everything, simpple rules to follow read, research, take detailed notes, discuss!!

Professor Clavin is an AWESOME professor. I would definitely recommend him. His lectures are fantastic and really engaging and it is really hard to fall asleep in that class! He is extremely helpful. He loves students who come and ask him for his help. Just read the material, study the ID terms, and pay attention to his lectures and youll be fine.

amazing teacher. puts history into real life terms making it easier to relate to and everything he says sticks so studying for tests is a breeze. if you miss class your screwed partially because none of hi stuff is online and all of his tests go over things he says in class and they're not just definitions it's a lot of ideology. great professor

He is an awesome professor who has a passion for history. If you don't care about showing up to his class, he wont care either. Although, I do recommend to show up to class everyday because you will be able to give a deeper analysis for the test. The class is easy as long as you take detailed notes, study ID terms, and read.

Professor Clavin is a fantastic professor. He was extremely clear in his lectures and made the information very understandable. He was pretty bias in terms of politics, but it didn't effect his lecture. Overall a fantastic teacher. Great class.

LOVED this class! Reminded me why I love history & considered majoring b/c of him. His class is straightforward. Come to class, take notes, study them, A. It's not hard. If you have a study group or join FB group, you won't need the book. Never really opened it and got an A. He's very opinionated, but doesn't force anyone to agree.Plus he's funny.

Great lecturer. You need to attend lect and take notes. Tests are 4 free resp, 5 mc, 1 essay. Class is 3 quizzes (over 3 books, which i just sparknoted) and 3 tests which are all from lecture. Book may help you, but i didnt use it at all. His lectures are pretty solid. Good guy.

Clavin is an amazing professor. His lectures are straight and to the point. His tests are easy if you take good notes. The notes he makes us take during class is very helpful for the tests. He's kind of old-school, so doesn't post his lectures online, in order to make students come to his lectures. His lectures fun and lively, so don't miss them.

I loved this class! I am a history major so this was an important class for me. He is smart, to the point, funny, keeps you attention and above all he is a great professor. 3 test and 3 quizes. Each quiz is over a book a makes you read not hard. Go to class an attend the great lectures- take notes and you will do great. Didnt use book made A-.

He is an amazing teacher. He is clear and straight forward and can actually teach. The class itself and the assignments are not easy but he teaches so well it sticks with you and you're able to over come them like its nothing. He made US history fun and i had hated it with a passion prior to taking his class, best teacher i've had at UH so far.

Took Him for History to 1877. Great teacher! Makes history fun and makes terms memorable. Essays on each exam but he tells you what exactly you need to know. Also gave out essay topics. Class wasn't easy and TA's graded hard but this class is worth it if you're willing to apply yourself! Would most definately recommend Clavin!

I'm not really all that interested in US History but Professor Clavin managed to keep me engaged. It doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes

made the class fun and interesting and judging by the low percentage of students that skipped class, they would agree. extremely knowledgeable on the subject as well as other subjects (i.e. politics, popular culture) he relates to history. very down to earth,fair grading, not an overwhelming course load. very easy to talk to and very good looking!

He is outstandingly well spoken and knowledgeable, and he knows how to tell our nation's history in a manner that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. He is just an all-around admirable and interesting individual who makes everyone around him want to be just as engaging and personable as he is.

Great overall guy! Very funny, engaging, and relatable. Expects you to read the chapters before coming to class (book is tiny). 3 tests, 3 quizes, pop quizes on the days he finds people on cell phones or laptops. Class isnt manditory, but you cant get the notes otherwise. The class isnt hard if you try. Attend take good notes and youll be fine.

Dr Clavin is a very nice prof, makes lectures clear and understandable. Tells you everything that's going to be on the test. Made an A and never opened a book. Also, the required reading can be found on the internet so you don't have to buy anything for this class.

No doubt, this class was a lot of work but it was very interesting. I loved his approach towards history! If you go to every class and write down all the notes, you'll make an A.

A great professor in all accounts. If you have issues, he'll work with you to help you improve. He makes the class funny and very interesting. Honestly the best professor I have ever had at the University.

TAKE HIS CLASS! His lectures are so interesting, and I hate history. The TA's do grade hard, but I love his class. He may come off as mean, but it is only because he is is serious about history. Overall, I would take him again.

Ughhh is this man amazing or what!? I must admit, my 1st exam wasn't too great but it's because the essay was in letter format (I suck). Quiz grades are good. The way he teaches; best ever! Don't need the book too much. Very clear when he speaks and makes it extremely fun to learn; always cracking a joke or two and his facial expressions<3. Funny

Clavin makes history easy to understand. Gives out information regarding to the test such as ID terms and possible essay questions. GO TO CLASS AND TAKE GOOD NOTES. Do that and you probably won't even need to touch the book to make a good grade in that class. Definitely recommend :)

Definetly my favortie class I have taken at UH. Not the easiest, but defintely the most interesting. Attendance isn't mandatory but there isn't any power points he puts up online. It is old school note taking. 3 test and 3 quizzes.

I was able to take him for both sections of history & he was great! "Old school" type who does not post lectures online but he really isn't as hard as he may seem once you catch on to his test style! I would recommend but you will put in work but he is not extreme!

The best professor at UH. Prof Clavin will introduce true history to you. You will actually learn something. You need to read in his class and come to class every session. If you come to class every time, write the notes and sit in the front row you will do well. Its not a multiple choice course where you can study overnight

Clavin is a great professor he is very engaging and I genuinely enjoyed attending his lectures. His tests are based off lectures, if you pay attention, take good notes and put decent time into preparing for the tests you should do fine. He was also nice during office hours.

I would definitely recommend taking this class! The TA Alana is so nice & helpful! Make sure you come to class, take good notes & pay attention to the lecture. At home read each chapter & take notes. Make flash cards for the ID terms. All essay prompts are given to you in advance which is highly beneficial. All in all a very manageable class.

Loved his class! Clavin made his lectures like stories. Tests are just a long essay proving what you know from the unit. Super funny, easy on the eyes and really nice if you have any questions. Down to earth, yes "old school" because there is no technology in the classroom, and very clear on his own political opinions.

He is an excellent lecture giver. His exams are tough, but they will make sure that you actually learned the material. Study the ID terms and you'll be fine.

Ha, my comment was actually the one below. I made him look bad so people wouldn't take his class but in reality he's the easiest of all the history teachers. You don't even have to read the damn book that's how easy it is lmao. Honestly this is probably one the teachers I respect most out of all the classes I took this semester

His exams are full essays and short paragraphs. Take good notes over his lectures, and you will be fine. He gives GREAT lectures and has given out bonus points on his exams for those who attend all classes. One of my favorite classes taken at UH (and I really didn't like history before this class.)

His lectures are clear and he has a real passion for the subject. Very good professor and I highly recommend taking his class. Best professor I had this semester!

He is a great speaker. This class was definitely not easy though. Attendance isnt mandatory, but you need to come to class in order to take notes. He randomly announces the answers to bonus questions that will be on the tests. The tests consists of about 4 ID terms, 5 multiple choice, and an essay. Study the essays top to bottom. Easy B,hard A.

This class isn't an easy A, but it's worth the effort. The test is completely based on lecture, so you must attend class. He is a great speaker and makes history seem like common sense. Most students attempted to sign up for the 2nd semester immediately. Be aware that electronics, even laptops for notes, are not allowed.

Lectures are interesting and engaging. Very nice, helpful, and really wants his students to understand the material. It's not an easy class. The TAs are hard graders. But he's definitely worth it. Just come to class, take notes, study the I.D. terms, do the modules, and you'll be fine. I refuse to take history with a professor who isn't Clavin.

Seriously best history class. I hate history and tend to struggle with it, but Clavin's class was awesome. He basically gives you the exams, 10 ID terms (6 on test, 4 you pick), 2 essay questions (only one on test). Other than that, it's just learnsmarts. And GO TO CLASS even though he doesn't take attendance because you need notes from lecture.

ATTEND CLASS!tests can be tough, but not impossible to pass, an A can be tough though! do the modules, READ!, just do what he says, some kids even get by not reading because they attend class, never lets out early, canceled class twice, very passionate about history, I changed one of my majors to history bc of him, srsly,i really admire him

Dr Clavin is one of the best professors I've ever met.His classes are fun,informative and very helpful for the exam.If you want an A take good notes and read the book. However, if you are good with getting a C+ or so, just take good notes.Classes aren't mandatory,yet they are fun and helpful so I would recommend you to attend them. Dr Clavin Rocks!

Professor Clavin is great! His class is definitely not easy but it's very doable. You have to work hard for your grade. Attendance is not mandatory but the test is based on the lecture and he doesnt post powerpoints. Take good notes and do the modules and you can come out with an A.

Professor Clavin is great. He will never test you on something he hasn't specifically told you about and his lectures are really engaging. You HAVE to go to class. He doesn't take attendance, but you will not get an A without going to class. He tells you essay topics in class and ID Terms that will show up on your exams. Best professor yet.

Lecture notes are key and do your reading assignment he will be asking class questions.

Professor Clavin is easily the best professor I've had in college yet. His class isn't easy, but it's not hard either. He keeps you engaged and his lectures are incredibly interesting. Absolutely no electronics allowed in his class, but honestly we learned better without them. Taking him again for Hist2!

Dr. Clavin is the perfect mix of cool and strict. He will not deal with any BS (ie. texting during class) but he is so funny and relatable. His lectures are really interesting bc he tells them like a story. Learnsmart assignments weekly. Clear instructions for written exams but you have to work for your A. Know your stuff thoroughly. TAKE HIM!

Take him! Took History in the summer and he made it fun and easy. Yes, you'll have to study a good amount for the essay portion of the exam to get an A but that is the same for ANY college history class. He gives you a list of about 15 ID terms to study for each exam and as long as you study them you will get an A, they're easy to study. He's good.

Dr. Clavin, Awesome Class! Very engaged, Great lecture! NO BS! will go OFF on People for being late cell phones Computer usage! Exams- You have to write a very detailed essay of 100+ words per ID TERM. He takes lots of points for not writing details. My first Exam I Failed- He wrote vague not enough details.

Dr. Clavin is a great professor. He doesn't put up with what normal professors deal with- don't sleep in class, don't waste his time, and don't text in class. Take lots of notes and read! I definitely would take him again!!

You will NOT be bored because his lectures are great! He's great! Unfortunately you will be at the mercy of the teaching assistant who grades the papers. The grading criteria is tough! So don't miss class! Read your book! Pay attention in class and take notes like your life depends on it! Exams are Blue Book aka "write for your life". Good Luck!

Great teacher, he makes the material interesting and memorable. However he does like to call out individual students sleeping and what not, as well as make us all feel like slackers. Only three exams so there is not a lot of work, but you need to be prepared and concise on exam day. A is totally doable if your paying attention.

This class is not easy; you MUST be willing to study and read. Show up to class, sit towards the front, participate i.e. raise your hand to answer his questions and he will love you (it pays off). Overall great professor and very knowledgable. I am taking him again.

Strongest attributes are his availability (via email), willingness to help beyond the scope of lectures, and feedback on essays. Provides detailed responses to queries in a timely fashion. He's scholarly, has direct teaching approach, and welcomes intellectual discourse. Writing ability is a factor in grading. Hard work's imperative to a good grade

This is a tough class. A lot of these reviews complain about how hard he grades and his expectations, it's not a lie. He treats you like an adult and doesn't baby you. His lectures provoke great class participation and make you think instead of just regurgitating the information. take if you want to challenge yourself!

CLAVIN IS AMAZING. You MUST take him for this class, his lectures capture the attention of all 200-300 students. He has a powerful way of teaching history that will make you enjoy it. Get ready to take good notes and attend class, he makes it easy to do with his lectures! After taking hist part one with him I couldn't take another prof for part two

Awesome professor. People giving him a bad rating just never went to class. If you go to class and actually study your notes and the textbook you will be fine, but be prepared to give him a ton of information on tests and quizzes. For tests I typically took up the entire blue book. He is a fair grader expects a lot but a great professor.

Clavin is FANTASTIC. I've taken him for both the intro History classes and absolutely loved him. He's a kind heart, but he isn't afraid to be harsh on people who disrupt his class, which is great. He doesn't allow electronics, but it really makes you focus, and you want to, because he's funny and interesting. He made me a better writer. Love him.

Professor Clavin is a great. I took him for two History classes. He does not post his lectures so you have to go to class. You have to take good notes to pass his tests. Do not fall asleep and he does not allow electronics. You can get a high grade if you put the effort.

Clavin is pretty much the hardest professor I've had, but that's because he doesn't baby students. Attendance is a MUST for passing because of the critical terms he gives during class which are tested over. Tests are blue book (a huge book of blank pages you just write about whichever topics he says). Yes, I got a D but his lectures are gold.

Lectures are very in-depth, make sure to take notes because he doesn't go from a Powerpoint. There are three tests and three quizzes. Tests are mostly essay-based, but he tells you specifically what's going to be on the test. I always hated history classes but I really enjoyed this one. Just don't let him catch you on your phone in class!!

As long as you show up to class take good notes, you will be fine. He tells you before the test what to study for. His lectures are pretty interesting. His tests are essay style so he cares about details. The learnsmarts are easy grades.

I love Dr. Clavin. He is a funny guy and his lectures are some of the few that don't bore me. History isn't exactly my favorite subject but he makes it interesting. The class isn't an Easy A, but if you show up, take notes, and study them, you'll have everything you need to pass. He does give a couple of pop quizzes. Would take again.

This is hands down one of the best professors at UH! He is not easy, but he will make you super interested in History. If you go to class and take notes you cannot fail this course. Not to mention, he is very handsome.

He is honestly a great teacher many people make him seem terrible but if you go to class and take notes, the tests won't be too bad if you take time to study. He also makes class enjoyable.

Amazing professor with great lectures. Not the easiest class in the world but completely doable with a minimal amount of work. Missing class is really hurtful as he doesn't use or post slides or info from class. He usually announces pop quizzes and their content days ahead. Three tests, no final, and three quizzes. Tests are essay based. Take him!

The professor's lecture are amazing, he is really passionate and funny about them. The exams are compose of 1 essay qts (50 Pts each), 5 Multiple choice (5 pts overall) and 4 ID terms where you have to define them and give their significance. It is going to be the toughest classes you take, but if you DO the work and study you will PASS.

The only reason you will not be able to get at least a B in his class is if you don't attend and don't at least take notes on his ID Terms. His class is NOT hard, but it does take some work. Yes his tests are essay tests, but if you write down everything about the ID Terms and study them, you'll be fine. I got an A and that is exactly what I did.

Fall mini.....3 weeks, it a lot of reading for a short time period. It will finished before you can make adjustments, if you do not do well on the first paper. Overall, two papers, 6 pages long. 2 text, one article, power points. The material was interesting, Civil War/Slavery. ONLINE

You will pass as long as you study the ID terms and prepare for the essay on the exam.

Dr. Clavin's lectures are entertaining and he actually wants you to learn about history. Getting an A in his class is tough and not a cake walk. 3 tests, weekly learnsmarts, and 2-3 pop quizzes. He gives ID terms and you're suppose to study and reiterate 4 ID terms on the test. There's a 50 point essay every test.

Clavin is a good professor, but you need to attend lectures and read the book. This class is an easy A for anyone who spends even 10 minutes a day max reading the chapters and paying attention in lectures. If you attend lectures and read you won't need to put in more than 30 mins of studying. 2 Tests, 1 essay, tests are both in essay format.

Show up to class and take notes. He is all about his lectures. Very passionate. For the summer course it was one midterm, the final, and a paper over his book. Tests included a couple of key terms, MC, and and essay.

Absolutely fantastic. 12/10

14 learnsmarts that are easy A's. 3 pop quizzes that consists of answering one question in full details. 3 major exams that consists of 5 MC questions, Id Terms and 1 essay. Make sure you attend every class, pay attention and take good notes!!!!! And read the book!!!! As of right now I have a B! His Ta's are tough graders but you will learn alot

This guy has excellent lectures, but grades VERY hard with only 2 tests+final. He proceeds to then tell the class repeatedly about how bad the average test grades are, how we don't read, can't write, ect, and then points out the students individually who did make A's. Only take if you are simply here to learn and don't care about grades at all...

Learning the material is not the hard part of this class, it is being able to structure a solid essay in about an hour, while making sure you get all the right details in there. I failed miserably at the two first exams, as the time just flew by, so make sure you write the essay beforehand, then re-write it when you take the actual exam.

Prof Clavin is an amazing lecturer. His class makes you feel as if you're living in history itself. However, this is NOT an easy A class as he's a VERY tough grader. All of his tests are written and the tricky thing is to structure a well-informed essay within an hour. I recommend writing the essay before hand and re-write them during the exam.

Clavin's lectures are very engaging and informative! I have absolutely no interest in history but actually learned quite a bit. However, this class is definitely not an easy A. You must go to class everyday and make sure to take extensive notes if you want a good grade. Tests are a bit difficult since they are mostly written.

He is an amazing professor. And you will learn from the lectures. I think everyone would have gotten better grades if it weren't for the TAs. Each TA grades differently. And what if they were having a bad day and were grading our tests. And it's not specific on why I got 37 instead of 40 points. "Oh you didn't have everything". Well okay. Good luck

Dr. Clavin is cool and intelligent. He doesn't put up with disrespect or slackers. The only hw you have is a weekly learnsmart, and studying for 1-2 quizzes in the semester along with the tests. The only thing that is hard are the tests. You must provide a lot of detail and background and even then your test grade depends on the TA who grades it.

Professor Clavin was a great lecturer! He clearly told us what would potentially be on the test and told us exactly what he expected on the test. The tests were a mix of MC, short essay, and 1 essay.

I had no interest in US hist until I took this class. Clavin lectures in a very captivating way, like he's telling a story. It is worth it to go to class everyday. I never even thought of skipping. His tests are challenging bc he wants A LOT of detail, which I was not prepared for. Know the ID terms by heart and practice writing essays before tests

Spring 2017 syllabus: 3 Exams (covers 5 chapters of the book; each has I.D. Terms and an essay) - 75% of the final grade. Learnsmarts - 19% 2 or 3 Quizzes - 6% Very passionate lecturer, loves the civil rights era. Study those I.D. terms. Study them.

Favorite professor I have had at UH. He is such a great lecturer and his passion for teaching the material is evident. The class is a little hard-3 tests, couple of quizzes, and learnsmarts. It will be a hard A, but Clavin is one of the best history professors there is. Do not skip class as the tests are lecture heavy.

He is such an amazing professor. He has a great personality and gives detailed lectures. I didn't like history until I took this course. I now even read history books on my own time. The content I learned in this course has helped me understand issues going on in todays world.

Dr. Clavin is truly an outstanding professor at UH. Lectures were entertaining, engaging, and thought-provoking. He always encouraged class participation by calling on students. As a STEM major, this course was a welcome break from my usual classes. I would also argue his exams push students to think critically and communicate as scholars.

His class is super easy if you take really good notes. As in not only write what you see on the PowerPoint, but also write down what you hear. He does tell what what's going to be on each exam. The exams are easy. The key is memorization. He has something called "ID terms." The ID terms are important for the exam, so it's really good to know them.

I took Matts class at Essex Comminuty College in Baltimore when he was a grad student. After reading other reviews it seems he hasn't hanged much. Listen to his lectures and read the text. Exams were somewhat challenging but very manageable. Would take his class again.

Best History teacher on campus! Pretty easy class if you do the work. He doesn't post his lectures so make sure you attend class! Test aren't that bad, mostly short answer and essay oriented. He's likes class participation and knows how to keep class engaged!

Very entertaining lecturer. Took his course for summer semester. Due to time constraints, grade was based on only two tests, 100 points each, and a final essay, 50. 250 points total. YOU MUST ATTEND CLASS TO PASS! He gives pertinent details in his lectures that are not in the textbook. Despite difficulty, great professor/class. Really enjoyed it.

Clavin's class is not hard if you go to class. He made me very engaged in his class. He does not allow electronic use during his class, which I like so I am not distracted. Every week, there is a learnsmart due and the tests consists of 5 multiple choice, 4 ID terms (short paragraphs explaining the topic), and an essay. I would take him again!

Doctor Clavin is a very insightful Professor. This class was an American Slavery in Books and Film class and while I went in not knowing what to expect, I have come out learning things I did not know. Clavin's insight on primary sources from Douglass, Northup, etc as well as interesting films made the class delightful and one I would take again.

He's a cool dude , Although his classes are pretty tough, he very knowledgeable in what he teaches, and if you attend class and participate in his classes, you'll learn a lot and do well. I've taken his classes since my freshman year, and still taking his classes into my senior year, I became a history major because of him.

No extra credit. Grades consist of learnsmarts, quizzes, and tests (3). Make sure you do all of them and do well! Even messing up one test can jeopardize your grade, so study the material well, read the textbook, and make sure to write a lot.

One of the best professors I've ever had. Not an easy class but you will learn and makes it fun to learn about history. If you want an easy A, Dr. Clavin is not the professor for you but if you love learning or are curious about history then he can't be beat.

He is passionate about his lecture and has a tremendous about of knowledge on the topic. His lectures are not boring but his exam is expected to be majority of his lecture so take amazing notes. He is understanding if you miss lectures just email him ahead of time. Definitely an easy class if you are will to do the work. It helps that hes cute

Amazing professor. Personally hate going to lectures but literally looked forward to his class. Made me start loving the subject that I never expected to like. Lectures are more like story time so theyre very interesting. Exams arent as hard as others make them seem. Go to class only and youll make a solid A.

Clavin was the best professor I had all year. I don't even like going to class, but his was worth it. He's very passionate. The tests are all based off of lectures, but I don't feel that they were too hard. You will use the book, but I wouldn't stress about it. He is pretty liberal so if you're not into that, good luck. 10/10. Would recommend.

Clavin was a great professor! Overall there are 3 tests which include 5 MC, an essay, and terms which you have to describe free response. He does provide you all the information you just have to show up to lecture and take the notes to study. His class has a very good feel to it. DO NOT SLEEP IN CLASS because he will confront you.

I have known Dr. Matthew &quot;Matt&quot; Clavin, since his days at the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida. He was an awesome professor then, and he is as magnanimous as he was then. He is an awesome human being. His knowledge and foresight are impressive. And his knowledge on the history of Haiti and its people are more impressive.

His class sounds scary at first but once you go to his lectures and listen to him teach thats all you need, he explains the material very well and makes it very interesting to learn about too. Hands down the best History professor at UH. Just go to the lectures AND PAY ATTENTION and you'll be fine. Tests are written but not bad at all.

Dr. Clavin is a great professor, even though I may have withdrew from the class for health reasons. His lectures are entertaining as he finds away to make what I find a boring part of history fun. Most importantly, Dr. Clavin cares about you and isn't afraid to give his honest opinion. If given the opportunity I would take a class with him gain.

Hes very inspirational and makes learning history fun; however, hes a tough grader and reading the textbook outside of class is necessary if you want to make an A. He can be petty at times, but he has his reasons. He doesnt post notes or any kind of studying tool so going to his lecture is a must.

Amazing lectures. Good humor. Do not have phone out or be asleep because he will stop what hes doing to make you sign a notepad. The tests are 10 multiple choice and essay portion based off the reading and lectures. There are also quizzes that are pre scheduled in the syllabus. Attendance isnt required but I would highly recommend.

He is probably one of the best history professors on campus. His lectures are amazing and always has fun in class. His humor is 10/10 and tells you exactly what will be on the test. You don't have to come to class, but if you skip you will test poorly. His tests and quizzes are all over the notes when he lectures in class. Amazing professor!

Dr. Clavin is definitely one of the best at UH. His lectures are captivating and hilarious, HOWEVER his tests are intense. You have abt an hour &amp; 15 minutes to write about a ton of stuff. Needless to say, you forget things even if you studied b/c the pressure is so extreme. 3 exams, weekly LearnSmarts, &amp; &quot;random&quot; pop quizzes. Worth the hand cramps

Dr. Clavin is a great professor, overall. He is funny, out-going and explains history as stories. He can go a little fast sometimes so taking notes might be a hassle. After some time though, the lectures might get boring. Tests consist of 5 MC, 4-5 ID Term essays and one big essay. He can be kind of mean about the topic of the big essay. Just cram.

His lectures are really entertaining, except for when he stops to scold someone for being on their phone. Honestly its annoying but at the same time its a nice break of awkward silence. He's a kind person for the most part. Class won't be an easy A, so make sure you study those flash cards!

I loved having Clavin as my professor. His lectures are super easy to understand and follow. I like how he tells what what key terms we need to have written down for the exams, and the learn smarts are super easy HW assignments. He pretty much sets us up for success for the exams. You just have to make some flash cards, and understand the chapters.

The exams, for the most part, are short essays but nothing one can't handle without studying. Show up every day he gives random points to those who are in class on time. For this course, there was more studying than usual for me (so any studying at all).

If you show up to class and take notes of the lectures, you should be alright for the Test. Everything on the test comes from the lectures notes, take notes of the key terms they will be on the test. Make sure to read ahead of time. He cares about his students. Take him you won't regret it. He makes his lectures interesting.

Good professor, hard class and too much work to do especially for non-history majors

Profesor Clavin is a pretty great teacher and his lectures aren't that heavy with information as he splits up his chapters. Attendance isn't mandatory but I would recommend in going as he talks about the ID terms that will show up on the Midterm and Final. He is interactive as during in class he will ask a question and students can respond.

This professor is nice and really knows his stuff. Lectures aren't mandatory but the material makes way more sense if you go to class. He doesn't allow any technology in class though so be ready to be called out if you have a laptop out. His tests are mostly essay based but he gives you the prompts in advance so you can prep your essay.

Honestly don't listen to the negative reviews, Prof. Clavin is really not as terrible like some people made him sound. I enjoyed his class a lot and learned a lot! and this is coming from someone who has always has struggled with history. His lectures were never boring, he's pretty straightforward. I would def recommend taking him.

I enjoyed this class. His lectures are great and if you take good notes you'll do well. Definitely some critical thinking involved but you'll be fine if you keep up with the work.

Not a bad guy he is really funny and super cool! He isn't bad like people say he is lol! They are mad because they are either lazy or stupid. The class isn't hard if you do the learnsmarts and read for the quizzes and take notes during lecture for the test.

American Slavery in Books and Film--100% online, definitely doesn't accept late work so be sure that you are staying up to date with your assignments. Anyways class consisted of 11 papers and he gives feedback on most essay but if he doesn't, he never hesitates to give you some if you ask!

This class is only as hard as you make it. If you try to do things on your own you're going to have a hard time. However, if you reach out to him (he is very accessible), he is always more than willing to help. His book coincided with some of the topics we were tested on. Overall, I learned more than any other history course I've taken. Take him!

The exams consist of short essays and one larger essay written in class. Usually I wouldn't be a fan of that, but Professor Clavin is an amazing lecturer. He is the first professor I've had where I am genuinely able to absorb everything he is saying. You need to write good notes in his class though since the PowerPoints consist of only a few words.

Clavin is so much fun to listen to in lectures! He is very passionate about what he teaches. On the flip side, he gets very hung up on specific words and ideas. So, if you don't include what he likes he will mark off points. You will need to think critically for every assignments; he wants you to care about the material and make it personal.

He is so passionate about history that he teaches it in a way to keep everyone engaged. Hands down one of the best. very limited quizzes and only one paper and the final. There is a reading every week but not bad at all. By far my favorite class this semester. He does give points for participation so talk back during the lecture when asked!

I highly enjoyed Clavin's class. It is not hard to get an A in his class, just go to class and pay attention. He basically tells you exactly what is going to be on tests and gives you the essay prompts before the test. Quizzes are so easy, just read the articles. He's so funny and actually wants you to learn and get something out of it

I hated history before taking his class but I would look forward to it when I had him. His lectures are very fast paced but it isn't hard to keep up. My advice: take good/in-depth notes, go to class even if it's not mandatory, make flashcards, and you will be fine. Yes, you need to put in effort but he makes it so interesting and worthwhile.

He is one of the best lecturers I have taken at UH. Before I took Clavin I was only really interested in classical history and medieval history. I had virtually no interest in American history but he changed that with his insightful and inspiring lectures. Beware though, he is a pretty tough grader. Most grades are on short ID question essays.

To start, he has a no electronic policy so all notes have to be handwritten in a notebook. With that being said, his lecture notes are extremely important and sometimes can substitute textbook notes. He's a tough grader but is also flexible with certain circumstances. Just follow his rubrics and show that you understand the concepts he teaches.

Clavin absolutely grades harsh. Don't expect to pump out an essay in a night and get an A from him. However, I would take a class with him again because his lectures were very engaging, it's very obvious has a passion for both history and teaching. He can come across as intimidating but is actually very understanding. I would recommend!

2 exams, 2 book analyses, and weekly textbook mcq. He is a very enthusiastic teacher and will help you as long as you ask. I HIGHLY suggest attending lectures (not mandatory). No electronics allowed in class (he'll kick u out). Write essays B4 exam day (he gives prompt ahead of time) and you'll get an A. Don't wait till day of to study (u'll fail).

Best professor I've had hands down. Yes it's a harder than most freshman classes, but it's not an understatement to say it'll change your perspective on life. I admire his strict discipline, it helps us learn & focus better. He's great at bringing out the significance of historical events and making you excited about history. Worth the effort!

Dr. Clavin's class included a mid-term and final test, both had an essay question, short answer questions, and multiple choice questions. He assigned about a chapter a week along with other weekly readings. He gives five quizzes based on the weekly reading.

I took this class online over the summer, it's super easy, and you can complete the work on time. Ensure you read the materials and do all the chapter reading to maximize your grade.

He is a great professor who is super passionate about what he's teaching. you can tell he knows so much about everything he teaches and teaches in a way that is easy to understand. yes, he is a very tough grader but it's not impossible to get an A. He is very willing to help you understand and the lectures are very interesting and never boring.

He's lectures were very informational but was a tough grader. You'll need to buy his book to finish an assignment. There weren't many assignments that mattered besides the tests so be sure to study. NOT FOR THE WEAK.

The lecture is high school level. Not that bad just attend the lectures and read what you need to read. If you don't want to read just look up summaries of the what you need to read. People who struggle in this class are probably communication or gender study majors XD

I didn't expect to, but I loved this class alot! It is quite difficult for a required class but Prof Clavin's lectures made up for it. He is extremely knowledgeable and passionate, and I really felt like I took away alot from this class. Come to lectures and study for exams and you'll be set. If you are looking for an easy A, don't take this class.

Full disclosure that I suck at history classes, but this class was brutal for me. He was a very nice teacher and you can tell he cares a lot about the subject, but the tests were awful for me. I do think he taught well, it just required knowing the books/textbook extensively. Uses McGraw Hill, 4 tests with a lot of writing involved. Not an easy A

Amazing lecturer, allowed us to form our own conclusions regarding historical significance. Kept things fun and light. Very fair grader as well. Only negative is to allow more time for discussion.

Professor Clavin made me love History course. it was 2 midterms, 2 books analysis and 14 book assigments. If you go to the lectures, you can get an essay +90 in the exams. I did love his class, he is very passionate about the course and make you love to learn U.S. history.

Absolutely the best U.S. History lecturer I've ever had, & I'm a non-traditional student, returning to school after a 20 yr hiatus. He doesn't spoon-feed current event parallels or hist significance of events, instead opening up the floor to create dialogue, a rarity for lecture-style classes. Attend class/take good notes & you'll be fine!

Took HIST 3304 Early American Republic and he was incredible. I would take more of his classes in a heartbeat if I could. He is a great lecturer, and has a clear passion for history. Big on participation so be prepared to talk. Gives clear feedback on assignments and is pretty straightforward. If you have any interest in history, I'd recommend!

I haven't finished this class yet (about halfway through the semester, we just took the midterm) but I felt compelled to write this. I love his lecture style, he is very engaging and opinionated. Instead of regurgitating the same material we've been forced to listen to our entire educational lives, he makes history interesting.

Glad I took this course. However if you want an easy A find someone else. lectures aren't posted so you have to actually come to class and take good notes. Which should be fine because he's a good lecturer

I took Prof Clavins 1301 class last summer (2024), and although it was fast paced, he did give us opporunitites to save our grade, such as the final book report. as long as you read or listen to the book and write down notes, you should do good in this class, just fair warning, it is fast paced so just keep that in mind when enrolling

USE YOUR RESOURCES! He can be a valuable resource, don't expect him to reach out to you for feedback. I turned my grade around just because I talked to him myself- and took his help and RAN with it. He is a harsh grader, but it is because he is passionate about what he is talking about and that is why his lectures are so engaging. No time to slack.

This man is a true educator. I see many complaints, some of which are valid, but if you genuinely care about history, he's your guy. I