2.8

Philip Barker

Chemistry - Normandale Community College

2.8
Quality
3.2
Difficulty
45%
Would Retake
122
Reviews
2.8
Quality
3.2
Difficulty
2.7
Helpful
3.0
Clarity

45%

Would Retake

122

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

28

4

18

3

20

2

34

1

22

What Students Say

Why so many negative reviews

CHEM1020 - 5.0 rating

This is the best CHEM 1061 professor at Normandale

CHEM1061 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

33%

Textbook Required

36%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 42 grades
Most common grades:
B (15)
A (12)
B+ (6)
Grade Distribution
A(17)B(15)C(3)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(7)
Based on 47 reported grades
B: 15
A: 12
B+: 6
A+: 5
Common Tags
LECTURE HEAVY (11)
Tough Grader (8)
Lecture heavy (8)
Tough grader (8)
Test heavy (7)
EXTRA CREDIT (6)
Clear grading criteria (5)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (5)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.20 avg change
Jan
Dec
Dec
Jul
Nov
Apr
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

CHEMSECT

5.0

(1)

B

5.0

(1)

CHEMISTRY

5.0

(1)

CHEM10611062

5.0

(1)

1061

4.0

(2)
+11 more courses
Difficulty by Course

KINDOFNERD

5.0

CHEMCHEM

5.0

1061

4.0

CHEM2061

3.8

1050

3.7

Reviews (122)
1.0
5.0
CHEM1050
Sep 26, 2004

Avoid like the plague! Enough said.

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Nov 5, 2004

Lectures unorganized and not clear at times. Quizes are easy, but tests are hard.

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Jan 15, 2005

takes forever grading labs, unorganized, when you ask a question he doesn't help you only confuses you more, not enough time given to take his hard tests,didn't show up for the final another teacher was there still waiting for graded work and it is well into next semester,screws up your % watch out!

1.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Apr 1, 2005

Unbelievably unhelpful and uninterested!!! AVOID AT ALL COSTS!!!

1.0
5.0
1050
Apr 10, 2005

Believe the results...rotten instuctor. Doesn't care, tests are hard. NO ONE likes him as an instructor. AVOID THIS TEACHER!

2.0
4.0
CHEM1050
Apr 16, 2005

Totally unorganized and unprepared for class. Lectures hard to follow and not helpful in learning the information. This teacher was also not often available to help--even during office hours outside of class. Find another teacher now.

1.0
5.0
KINDOFNERD
Grade: A
May 7, 2005

Mr, Phillip speeds lectures not providing enough examples, so you must figure out how to resolve each different exercise from the book. The tests are hard;however, he provides a guideline/sample previous the test;which are the same format of equations with some changed variables or numbers.

4.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Jun 19, 2005

If chemistry is your interest, then Barker is a good teacher, however, he is usless if you are having trouble in his class

3.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Jul 21, 2005

Very disorganized in lecture, you will constantly be backtracking because he gets ahead of himself. He makes quite a few mistakes on equations, and moves very quickly through chapters. His tests are hard, but his outlines tell you exactly what to study for. If you put enough effort in you can get an A, I did, and I had never had chem before.

5.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Sep 18, 2005

Really good teacher. Do not miss a class, take notes on everything he writes down, and ask question. If you do that you are guaranteed an A, oh yeah don't miss lab - he hates that. Otherwise I had a really good experience. I still have the notes I took for his class for all of my other classes.

3.0
4.0
CHEM1050
Dec 3, 2005

Mr. Barker is an earnest man. Unfortunately, if you're unwilling to give effort or to challange him, you will be lost. Chemistry is a challenging subject in and of itself. If you put in the effort, it really doesn't matter who your instructor is... I would not recommend him for the dope smokin' morons out there, but those willing to learn, will.

2.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Jan 11, 2006

unorganized!!!

1.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Aug 4, 2006

horrible if youre new to chemsitry, squeezes unlearned material in two days before exams and finals, makes lots of mathematical errors and doesnt answer questions correctly

2.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Aug 4, 2006

Try to avoid Mr. Barker. He crams way to much information and expects you to know it he next day on an exam. He screws up on his examples in class, loses assignments and labs, and even grades his own test wrong! If you do take him be aware of your grade and keep track of how many points you've earned, he will mess this up so keep all returned HW

1.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Sep 29, 2006

He is very poorly organized, makes many calculation errors during lecture. He doesn't actually teach the material, he simply regurgitates the material directly from the text, so if you had trouble with the text, you're not going to get any help from attending lecture. Avoid him at all costs!

1.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Dec 3, 2006

He is unorganized, late to class, and does not return phone calls or emails. His class consits of boring power points and lectures. He is unwilling to grade a test based on a curve even if the avrg score for the class is a D. The class was so difficult that more than 50% of the students dropped it. The Dean and I both agree he is a problem teacher.

1.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Apr 3, 2007

Prof. barker, gave timed tests 74% of the class was not able to complete the tests in the time given

2.0
5.0
CHEM1050
May 24, 2007

It was a struggle all semester. Found out the previous semester actually had a Barker support group. His lectures ramble and as for his tests, you either have to be brilliant or have memorized the entire book. I pulled of a C on the final but half the class (of those who were left) go a D or lower. I would avoid the man.

5.0
1.0
CHEMSECT
Sep 20, 2007

he's a good teacher and good lectures

1.0
5.0
CHEMCHEM
Oct 23, 2007

i did a mistake when i took his class. the class is while easy but he makes hard becose of his poor grading way. i have never seen anyone grades like that since i have been started kindergarten.i would recommand all my friends not taking him.

4.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Nov 1, 2007

very good teacher, i would recommend him for anyone who wants to gain some knoweledge about chemistry

4.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Dec 1, 2007

Very straightforward professor teaching an introductory chem class. Uses powerpoints for lecture, I prefer more interactive modes. Presented the material clearly and tested fairly. I witnessed rampant cheating and goofing off from classmates that Barker sometimes ignored. This made it difficult for good students. Very easy class if you pay attention.

3.0
4.0
CHEM1050
Dec 18, 2007

His lecuture is just him reading the text book to the class. Tough tests and one of the most boring dull teachers I have ever had.

2.0
5.0
CHEM1050
Dec 27, 2007

Unfortunately, one of the worst teachers I have ever had. He kept trying to sell girl scout cookies to us (nearly every week, and he was pushy about it). Very inconsistant in his grading and made us read unecessary material out of the textbook (which lead to information overload). Extremely dull lectures. I would highly recomend taking Longleys 105

5.0
1.0
CHEM1020
Jan 18, 2008

Professor is very understanding and helpfull. lecture is boring but read the textbook and will do fine exam..Pro gives out helpfull example exams. if you can do the example exam will A's the real exam.... overall the professor is humble but unorganize and very shye...

1.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Apr 14, 2008

if you have never taken chem before, do not take him. he makes no sence at all. and if you do take him, be prepared to teach yourself.

4.0
4.0
CHEM1050
Jun 10, 2008

Some of the previous comments are a little harsh. He lectures were a little dry; however, the lectures are where the tests were derived from! His practice tests were practically the tests. In some instances he didn't even change the question. His grading was lenient. He gave bonus questions and bonus points for homework. I'd take the class again.

4.0
1.0
CHEM1050
Jul 29, 2008

His power point lecture is very helpful. If you do well on the example exam for sure you will do well on the exam!

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Nov 3, 2008

his lectures are so boring and you just get confused

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Dec 18, 2008

truly, this guy DOESN'T TEACH. he reads the the text. so why r u wasting $? go ahead teach yourself. u can do that too. not recommend him.

3.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Dec 19, 2008

ok teacher, grades fair, weekly homework assignments that take alot of time. Helpfull if you read the chapter before class so you can follow his lecture which is all powerpoint. no extra credit so make sure your on point with labs, quizes and homework.

4.0
4.0
CHEM1050
Jan 5, 2009

He is very interested in Chem. Really good teacher, lots of class work. The good thing is the lab is an assigned lab time so you will have plenty of time to do the lab. He does grade of a curve, FYI almost everyone taking this class has to for requirements, so the curve is from like 98% instead of 100%

2.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Jan 26, 2009

I am honestly afraid of science classes, and when I tried to seek him for help he was very condescending to me and not helpful at all! He may be a small man, but he is very pompous! I did not learn anything in his class, and was too afraid to approach him after the first two times because he was so rude to me. Would not recommend.

3.0
3.0
CHEM1020
May 12, 2009

Long homework and pointless lectures. Be prepared to study yourself.

3.0
5.0
CHEM1050
Jun 10, 2009

Hard to follow, very smart! but hard to follow

2.0
1.0
CHEM1050
Sep 14, 2009

I took CHEM 1020 and 1050 with him. The subject was easy to understand on my own, so I quit attending lectures :) He had been not helpful at all with me, and his "hints" are even more confusing. However, I would recommend this teacher if you just need to get a good grade (the average in class was above 80%) and not interested in Chem.

2.0
1.0
CHEM1050
Sep 14, 2009

I took CHEM 1020 and 1050 with him. The subject was easy to understand on my own, so I quit attending lectures :) He had been not helpful at all with me, and his "hints" are even more confusing. However, I would recommend this teacher if you just need to get a good grade (the average in class was above 80%) and not interested in Chemistry

2.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Oct 8, 2009

He is ok, but I think he does not like much foreigners. even though I am getting the great scores on the exams, he still keeps my labs grades as low as possible. I am 100 %sure some studens get better score for same mistakes then I do.

2.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Nov 4, 2009

He tends to ramble. His lectures are quite boring but every once in a while he will make an attempt at a joke. I would not Recommend him.

3.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Nov 21, 2009

Hey, people!!! he is not so bad. maybe a little bit boring, but his 1020 class is very easy. Just do your homework and labs, prepare for tests, and you will get your A.

5.0
2.0
CHEM1050
Jan 25, 2010

Very clear ad consice, Loves chemistry, and knows the subject very well!

4.0
2.0
CHEM1050
Apr 27, 2010

He thinks he is very funny, his jokes aren't the funniest but I still enjoy them. 3 Exams 100pt ea, One final 150. Twelve labs 10 ea. Homework 30pts. Minimal extra credit offered to those who show up to lecture 20pts, do your work and study your text, practice exams are great, hes a stickler on points, would recommend.

2.0
5.0
CHEM1050
Jun 6, 2010

His lectures are extremely painful and he is difficult to listen to and I typically and very interested in science. Every time I asked him a question he was reluctant to answer and really belittled me so in turn I stopped asking questions. His exams are extremely difficult and he offers almost no extra credit. NOT RECOMMENDED!

5.0
4.0
CHEM1050
Jun 22, 2010

He is a very helpful teacher during office hours. He also participates in tutor hours. This is a hard class, it is Chemistry, but if you study and ask questions he is a perfect teacher if you want to learn Chemistry!

5.0
1.0
CHEM1050
Aug 21, 2010

If you are not getting at least 90-95% in his class, you don't need to be in science or chem class. His class is very easy, lectures are not so bad, exams reflect everything what you learn in class. I would highly recommend him

4.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Dec 5, 2010

I learned from the book because this guy is pretty boring(I was distracted). I got a B in this with some effort. Study for test. Do homework, go to labs and do the extra credit it helps at the end. The course requires some work.

4.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Mar 18, 2011

Do your homework, go to class, try hard on labs. He tended to grade a bit harder on labs than on assignments. He is a good teacher, and the lectures helped me understand topics the book was not clear about. He knows chemistry well, and is very bright. I would recomend him to anyone who wants to learn, and is willing to put work into the class.

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Apr 6, 2011

He seemed more focused on lecturing all the material, rather than helping students understand. He does not like it when you ask questions. EVERY lecture is a powerpoint. He was a VERY tough grader (especially on labs) If you need a lot of help in chem, not recommended.

3.0
1.0
CHEM2058
Jun 23, 2011

Took Organic Chemistry Essentials with him... quite easy. He never really taught--it was more him reading off the powerpoint slides. He's a little anal about the labs, but they're easy and finishing early's the best. Read the book! Didn't bother listening to him in class cause he basically repeats what's already in the book. Easiest chem class ever

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Aug 5, 2011

Wouldnt be my first choice for a chemistry teacher if you have other options. He reads only off power points and is hard to speak with outside of class. I was seeing a tutor weekly to pass the class with a good grade. Thank god for her or I think I would have been retaking it!

3.0
4.0
CHEM1062
Jan 19, 2012

Do not take him if you want to pass this class with an A or B he is not the best lecturer, but he does give practice exams which are very helpful. He is a tough grader.

3.0
2.0
CHEM1061
Apr 19, 2012

He isn't that bad. Tests should't be hard because practice tests he are exactly the same as the actual test. I thought he explained things step by step pretty clearly. If you pay attention in lecture, and try on your lab and homework, you can easily get a B. Yes, he is a hard grader, but not THAT hard. He is hard to talk to out of class though.

2.0
5.0
CHEM1061
May 30, 2012

he doesnot try to help.take points for every easy mistake trust me DO NOT take it with him.

2.0
5.0
CHEM1061
Jun 3, 2012

i have never got C on chemistry in my whole life,but when i took a class with him i got D.he made me hate chem

2.0
2.0
CHEM1062
Aug 14, 2012

To whom it may concern: he takes most of his homework and quiz problems directly from problems online. Seriously, google the problem and you'll find the answers! Such a lazy teacher. Tests are 80% similar to practice tests. Not a great teacher, but somewhat easy class.

3.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Dec 18, 2012

Lectures are very important. Not easily approachable outside of class. It's important to know that he plays on words for his tests. They can be very difficult. You have to study. Period.

4.0
1.0
CHEM1062
Dec 20, 2012

Read the book, do the practive exam and use study guide, A is not very hard to get in this class. He is very nice instructor.

2.0
4.0
CHEM1061
May 15, 2013

Do not take it with him. The class made me hate Chem. He isn't very helpful and there isn't much of a point to go to lecture. Life depends on the textbook.

1.0
5.0
CHEM1061
May 16, 2013

he is not helpful, hard on exams. eventhough i wish doesn't change anything but i wish if i didn't take this class with him because it made me hate chem

3.0
2.0
CHEM1062
Oct 29, 2013

Test are really hard, don't have enough time to finish them. He does give practice exams which are helpful. Even though the test are hard gives make up exams after which makes it a easy A class also lets you do learnsmart for extra credit, many opputinities to get points for a A but my overall understanding of the material is lacking.

2.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Nov 6, 2013

Very hard to learn from. He reads straight off the power points with no insight of his own. Very rude and not helpful when I asked him for help. I had to get a tutor for this class.

4.0
5.0
CHEM1061
Nov 21, 2013

He is a very nice teacher, but his teaching style did not work for me. He based many things off from slides and tests are very hard. I was disappointed that I had to drop out of his class. He does give the class a chance to correct their test before he gives out your final grade.

1.0
5.0
1020
Dec 15, 2013

Terrible........terrible. If I could have given zeros I would have. Reads pretty much word for word off of his 7 year old powerpoint. Doesn't engage the class. Will cover about 50 powerpoint slides in 40 minutes. Homework is easy if you read the book. Most of the tests/quizes will only confuse you. HIGHLY recommend a different professor.

5.0
1.0
CHEM1020
Jan 2, 2014

though he reads off his powerpoint, he is very helpful. when you have questions or missed a class, he's flexible. if he's not available he will have you take the exam. THANKS SO MUCH MR. BARKER.

3.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Jan 14, 2014

Mr. Barker knows his stuff. Highly recommend reading the chapter before attending class. He is not very clear during lecture. He reads directly from his power points. He does a lot of examples on the board which are helpful. His tests are based off of the study guides and homework.

4.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Jan 14, 2014

Overall pretty good. Puts practice exams online with key (even for the midterm and final). The lab time it says is exaggerated, I (along with most students) spent no more than an hour and 15 minutes a week in the lab. Quiz topics are given ahead of time. Lectures are all off a power point, so not bad if you miss class.

5.0
1.0
CHEM1020
Jan 20, 2014

I enjoyed his class. Doesnt take attendance. He knows his material. He's helpful when you have questions. All his tests are based on materials covered through lectures. You should also read your chapters along the way. He'll give you pactice tests before the big day.

2.0
5.0
CHEM1061
Mar 17, 2014

Hard to understand what he is trying to teach. Had to use YouTube for a more explanation from other chemistry teachers. Tests are harder than the practice exams. Thought I was going to do great, but failing the exams because of no time to finish them. You have maybe 45 minutes to take an exam that should allow you 2 hours. do not take this class.

4.0
2.0
CHEM1061
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Apr 4, 2014

H was a really good teacher. Anyone complaining about the tests probably didnt study as much as they should have. You shouldnt need extra time to finish tests if you study the material,pay attention to lectures, and ask questions when something is unclear. Havent read through the chapters and it hasnt hurt me at all. If you put in the effort-easy a

3.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Grade: C-
May 14, 2014

He tries hard to teach and knows what he's talking about but when he tries to simplify, he makes it a lot more confusing. It's hard to pay attention to lecture because he doesn't interact with the class at all except answering questions. Tests are mediocre hard but he gives you a lot to study from. I do not recommend taking this class from him.

4.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Grade: B
May 19, 2014

Tough class - required a lot of time and effort for me to pull a good grade. Tests are hard, even with hours of study time and challenging to finish on time. I thought the book was confusing but he simplified the concepts in lectures. Class attendance is mandatory if you want to do well. Easy to approach and helpful outside class. Recommend.

3.0
5.0
1061
Jan 9, 2015

I took this course last spring. This instructor is the hardest and least helpful at Normandale. Its like he is talking to board when giving lectures. The practice exams are hardly any close to the real exams. He tries hard to teach but doesnt know what he is doing... The only way to pass is to read the entire book on your own.

5.0
3.0
B
Grade: B+
Jan 29, 2015

I was very surprised to see some negative ratings for Mr. Barker. I took 1020 with him and thought the class was very helpful. Yes, you do need to show up to class but you will really learn your stuff! He is a very good teacher and really prepares you to succeed. I feel like I really got my pennies worth with this class! Highly recommend!!

5.0
2.0
CHEMISTRY
Grade: B
May 7, 2015

This is MAN. This guy is a put on. He gives you extra credit like its its water. One exam I took. I got a 69100. so since the class did not do good, he gave us 10 points automatically. Which put me up to 79100. And thats not all he did. he also gave us a 15 extra credit problem that he was similar to one he explained.

5.0
1.0
CHEM1061
May 15, 2015

This is the best CHEM 1061 professor at Normandale. He gives you so much opportunity for extra credit. Over the course of the semester there was more than 50 points that you can get. In this class a point is a point, which helps a lot. I got an A and did the extra credit. I used the extra credit as a cushion for the final and it worked. Take him!!!

5.0
3.0
1061
May 30, 2015

whoever is complaining about this professor is simply lazy or did not put much time. science classes need a lot of hard work and commitment. this professor is the best chemistry teacher you will ever meet in your entire life, he is organized, clear and most importantly very helpful, he is a very kind man too. will definitely take him again.

5.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A
Nov 10, 2015

This guy is very good, explains content very throughly so many times, it gets annoying. If you ask for help, he is glad to help! Though his lectures tend to get boring, they are extremely helpful if you listen in on it. If you understand the material, just do the homework in class and you won't need to take it home! Easy class if you just pay att.

5.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A+
Dec 3, 2015

Awesome. Go to class and listen (this should be obvious) but he clearly explains everything you need to learn. Then go home and read the book on what he just lectured. Also practice problems in the book and if you need help go to his office hours. He will explain things more and give a clear understanding. I wish he taught more classes

5.0
1.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2015

Mr. Barker's class is my favorite. He gets right to the point and doesn't waste my time with unnecessary information or entertaining stupid questions. On the other hand, he is energetic, and good at answering questions when they are on topic and thoughtful. There is homework and quizzes, but they are short, and they help a lot with tests.

2.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Grade: C+
Apr 28, 2016

I feel like the material presented in the class wasn't necessarily challenging but it was hard to understand because he is awful at expressing concepts and rather redundant about little things in his lectures. He was very disrespectful, I feel like he was grading me on things other than how well I understood chemistry.

5.0
1.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A+
May 7, 2016

Why so many negative reviews?? I LOVED this prof. His practice exams were SO helpful and made getting an A on exams a breeze because they were so similar! :) Not to mention his extra credit opportunities too, hes awesome. 100% recommend without reservations.

3.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Grade: Incomplete
May 14, 2016

Chem 1061 is a hard course to teach to a class of 50 nonengaging students in 50 minutes. It's really possible to pass this class with an A if you try. Show up to class, do all of your assignments (write them down in a planner, because there will be a lot of assignments), and ask for help and you will do fine. You really have to take the initative.

5.0
1.0
CHEM1061
Grade: A
May 14, 2016

Very helpful and have tons of office hours. He gives you study guides and anything not listed on it, will not be on the test, also a practice exam. If you can't make it to your lab section, he'll let you do the lab with another section, just have to let him know. Study only the study guide, you'll at least get a C or higher on the test

5.0
1.0
CHEM1061
Grade: A+
May 16, 2016

Mr. Barker is by far the best Chemistry professor at Normandale. There are practice test that are somewhat like the actual test. There is both online and written homework. He gives extra credit which help if you do bad on a test. He has a lot of office hours and the in the chemistry tutoring room. Overall, a great professor.

4.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Grade: B
Aug 26, 2016
Would take again

I took accelerated chem 1020 with Mr. Barker. This is a TOUGH class, a chapter per day plus lab. Mr Barker really made it manageable. His lectures moved fast but were thorough and he made the subject interesting. If you have a good lab partner, show up every day to class and do the practice tests, you will do fine.

Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
CHEM10611062
Grade: A+
Nov 4, 2016
Would take again

Mr. Barker is an amazing instructor. He is very respectful, answers any questions, helps with problem solving. Has a great sense of humor and respected among A+ hard working students. I would definitely recommend to take him if you LOVE CHEMISTRY.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Caring
4.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A
Nov 18, 2016
Would take again

Easy to understand and down to earth professor. Was late quite a few times, but gets through all material needed.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
CHEM1062
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2016
Would take again

I love him! You have to have a good attention span because he covers as much material as possible! Never wastes a second on silence! If you can't follow, I suggest a cup of coffee before class. He is very clear if you just listen! Also if you ask coherent questions, you will get coherent answers! Understand he's old but really wants you to learn!

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
Caring
1.0
3.0
CHEM2061
Grade: B
Jun 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Mr. Barker is absolutely terrible. He started class by saying "They don't let me teach this class very often, hope I remember how!". He specifically shows examples in class, puts the SAME ones on the test, and grades you incorrectly for doing the problem how HE showed. I'm specifically not taking o chem 2 because he's the prof again. Terrible.

5.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Grade: B
Jun 29, 2017
Would take again

Mr. Barker made chemistry fun and easy to learn. He has a wonderful personality and is willing to take time to help you on things you don't understand. I wish he was teaching organic chemistry!

2.0
5.0
CHEM1061
Grade: A
Jul 29, 2017
Wouldn't take again

What to expect: Always late and unprepared for lab, expects in depth knowledge and application after teaching concept one time, words questions in confusing manner on exams, and is incredibly harsh grader (I was docked points for not showing adding and subtracting on labwork). My advice: do all the extra credit. He's approachable and nice enough.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Sep 15, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I wouldn't recommend this professor to anybody. He gets in bad moods, and takes point off exams for not putting it in the correct place. So you loose points even if you know the material that was expected of you. So if you like nit picky, rude people then I would recommend him, but if you like pleasant people try and get a different professor

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A
Sep 15, 2017
Would take again

these negative review people are so picky, this professor was THE BEST chemistry professor I have ever had. You'll get an A on the tests as long as you review the whole study guide and do the practice exams which are quite similar to the real exam.

EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A
Sep 15, 2017
Would take again

Great professor who made chemistry easier to understand. Would recommend to anyone!

5.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Grade: B
Sep 15, 2017
Would take again

Prof. Barker has an awesome personality and does his best to make things fair. BEST CHEMISTRY PROFESSOR. He's late sometimes but it's not a big deal and I don't mind it, just pay attention to the lectures and take notes.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
3.0
3.0
CHEM1020
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 5, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He is okay! Nice guy and knows what he is talking about. He does go quickly. Chem is not my strong suit and this class is not making it any easier. pay attention and DO THE HOMEWORK and you should be fine. the due dates on the homework varies, so make sure you are up to date

2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Grade: B
May 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Phil is an average guy that is an average professor. He can be funny at times like when he makes jokes and wears Hawaiian shirts. His lectures are not engaging whatsoever, most of the time i just work on the sapling homework during lecture. I taught most of the concepts to myself because he is not very good at answering questions.

Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
CHEM1020
Grade: B
May 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Philip Barker makes this class the most boring thing in the world. He spends an extremely long time on simple concepts and rushes through the hard material. Get ready to read your textbook because listening to him will not help you pass this class. He also tries being fun but just ends up making the whole class feel awkward.

Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
CHEM1020
Grade: A
May 9, 2018
Would take again

Professor Barker is a great professor. His explanations are very easy to follow. Very clear on what to know for the exams. His jokes can be pretty funny. He takes time to go over previous concepts to make sure students understand. He has a lot of students, so he is kind of busy. However, very caring and clear grading criteria. Mad Respect!!

Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Grade: B+
Aug 17, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I took this class in the summer. I was 7 points from an A for my final grade, and he wouldn't give me an extra assignment even after 10 mins of him posting grades. I showed up to class everyday and was on time. He is not a very lenient Professor. Would not take him again because his lectures were confusing and the exams were quite difficult.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
CHEM1061
Grade: A
Oct 12, 2018
Would take again

Mr. Barker is a great professor. He really knows his Chemistry and does not waste time in lectures. He is very helpful when you ask questions and makes doing labs easy. However, he is a tough grader, so make sure you have all your answers to the right sig figs! Exams are exactly like his practice exams. Show up and you will get an A!

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Respected
1.0
5.0
CHEM1061
Nov 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This teacher is one of the worst teachers i have ever had. He doesnt explaine anything thoroughly. He just talks about his slides and thats it. DONT TAKE THIS PROFESOR

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Nov 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He is a really boring teacher that does not explain things very well. He is an extremely tough grader and does not let anything go. The exams are very difficult if you don't enjoy chemistry.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
CHEM1061
Grade: B+
Dec 4, 2018
Would take again

He really straight to the point type of guy. He's really nice and helpful when you get to know him.

Tough Grader
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
CHEM1061
Grade: A-
Dec 17, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Very tough grader and extra credit is not free. He uses sapling but posts extra credit on connect. His tests are long and often time students were unable to finish on time. Averages for tests were sometimes failing, but he curved it slightly.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
CHEM1061
Grade: B+
Jan 16, 2019
Wouldn't take again

class was boring, and he is extremely strict on grading, the class average was always 70ish % or below

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
CHEM1061
Grade: B+
Mar 25, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Barker is strict and a very hard grader. Expect to study hard and pay attention in class because he randomly calls on people. I didn't like him because he didn't round up for my final grade. I was 7 points away from an A.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
CHEM2061
Dec 19, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Doesn't really give any examples just talks and reads off the slides which was hard when learning the mechanisms because you basically have to teach yourself everything.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
CHEM2061
Grade: B
Feb 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Orgo1 is already hard & all he does is reads off slides very fast. Labs are long, usually takes up the entire 4 hours but he explains the labs fairly well. Practice exams are very similar to the exam, so I give him props for that. However, he rarely did example problems in class and only read off his slides, which would've been helpful for rxns.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
CHEM2061
Apr 19, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Most lectures involve reading from the slides and not many in-class examples were demonstrated. Tough grader when it comes to assignments (must show all work and do it accurately! otherwise will lose points). Sample exams and potential test topics are provided but make sure you spend a lot of time outside lecture STUDYING!

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
CHEM2062
Grade: B
May 11, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Harshest grader on homework I've ever met. Just read off slides during lectures and never really did any example problems... so expect a lot of self-teaching. Provided sample exams that were similar to the actual exam. Chapters felt rushed.

Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
CHEM2058
Grade: B
Jul 20, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He grades everything so harshly even though he would make mistakes in every example. He was rude in lecture calling out those who made mistakes. His homework is long and just reads off the slides. You will have to teach yourself a lot of the mechanisms and concepts. If you have to take this class take with another teacher. Avoid at all costs!

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
CHEM2061
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 7, 2020
Wouldn't take again

This professor doesn't teach. He reads off powerpoints and rushes through chapters, expecting you to be 100% competent and understand everything. Because God forbid if you try to ask questions without him degrading you abs being passive aggressive/condescending. Exam every two weeks. He is fair sometimes, somewhat lenient and nice. AVOID IF YOU CAN

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Tough grader
2.0
3.0
CHEM2061
Nov 18, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Reads almost verbatim out of the textbook and puts them on power point slides. Impossible to take notes during class. Labs are the worst part. Every time lab has been held, everyone in class has gone longer than anticipated (4+ hours). Exams are relatively easy online given your notes are as detailed as possible.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
CHEM1020
Grade: C
Jan 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This class broke me. I am a pseo student and i didn't take high school chemistry so that might have made it more difficult. But this class asks a lot of you. A lot of studying. A lot of math. A lot of homework. A lot of notes and lectures. Also, Barkers lectures were very boring, like VERY boring. Yeah, i could not survive taking this class again.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
4.0
CHEM2061
Grade: B
Dec 27, 2022
Would take again

Barker is a hard professor, most of my class was either passing with a "C" or just around there. Took weeks of begging for us to get some better study sessions, we started a discord so people could get things answered in a timely fashion. He is terrible responding to emails, try to not skip lab or lecture. If you skip watch the videos later.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
CHEM2061
Grade: B
Dec 4, 2023

TOUGH CLASS. DO NOT take with another science course. No EC offered. Picky on exams about little things. Rush through lectures toward end of sem. Read off Publisher PPT slides and little additional info. HW program is VERY picky. Exams every 2 wks on 2-3chpts. DO NOT FALL BEHIND! Got mid-Cs on exams, completed HW to 100%, partic. in wkly disc.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
2.0
1020
Grade: B
Dec 18, 2023
Would take again

I took this class Spring 2022 for PSEO. I recommend looking up videos on how to do certain topics on YT, if you get stuck (Organic Chemistry Teacher and Wayne Breslyn were the most helpful personally). Have physical copies of the slides and to follow along as best as possible on lectures + utilizing study guides. The lectures can get dry.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
1050
Grade: A
Jul 26, 2024
Would take again

Such an engaged and hard-working professor. The class is a lot of work but the professor is incredible and has wonderful ways of teaching. One of my favorite teachers ever. Also, incredibly polite and helpful.

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
CHEM1020
Grade: B+
Nov 2, 2024
Would take again

I WOULD TAKE HIM AGAIN!!!

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Caring
3.0
2.0
1050
Grade: B
Nov 20, 2024
Would take again

Students give him flack for being disorganized, not tech savvy, but he is very knowledgeable in chemistry and super nice and patient. Chemistry isn't easy! I can tell he's passionate about what he does- he really tries even though he isnt tech savvy at all he still gets a good rating from me. He has good mnemonic devices to remember things too.

Hilarious
Caring
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
CHEM2062
Grade: A+
Apr 23, 2025
Would take again

I took Dr.Barker for Ochem 1- 2, and I enjoyed the classes. The HW website is excellent, and the textbook is amazing. He gives practice exams for you to study, and they are extremely helpful. He is always willing to answer questions and is gracious with corrections on exams. He is very clear on expectations for grading. Definitely would take again.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

33%

Textbook Required

36%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 42 grades
Most common grades:
B (15)
A (12)
B+ (6)
Grade Distribution
A(17)B(15)C(3)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(7)
Based on 47 reported grades
B: 15
A: 12
B+: 6
A+: 5
Common Tags
LECTURE HEAVY (11)
Tough Grader (8)
Lecture heavy (8)
Tough grader (8)
Test heavy (7)
EXTRA CREDIT (6)
Clear grading criteria (5)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (5)
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Stable

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