4.0

Ron McClamrock

Philosophy - University at Albany (SUNY Albany)

4.0
Quality
3.4
Difficulty
63%
Would Retake
118
Reviews
4.0
Quality
3.4
Difficulty
4.0
Helpful
4.0
Clarity

63%

Would Retake

118

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

52

4

39

3

17

2

7

1

3

What Students Say

super hard, but super good class

APHI111 - 4.0 rating

Ron is by far one of the best professors I have had here at UA

APHI111 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

91%

Textbook Required

44%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 41 grades
Most common grades:
A- (10)
A (9)
B (8)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(10)C(4)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(14)
Based on 48 reported grades
A-: 10
A: 9
B: 8
Not sure yet: 5
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (24)
Lecture heavy (14)
LECTURE HEAVY (9)
TEST HEAVY (8)
Participation matters (8)
Amazing lectures (8)
Get ready to read (7)
Amazing lectures (7)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.42 avg change
Dec
Nov
Mar
May
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

111

5.0

(1)

415515

5.0

(1)

PHI

5.0

(1)

PHYL

5.0

(1)

PHY211

5.0

(1)
+22 more courses
Difficulty by Course

C-

5.0

APHI315

5.0

415515

4.0

APHI111L

4.0

NUMEROUS

4.0

Reviews (118)
3.0
5.0
PHI111
Dec 17, 2002

No Comments

5.0
5.0
PHI111
Dec 22, 2002

Really interesting, thought-provoking course

4.0
3.0
PHI111
Feb 4, 2003

he was a pretty good teacher and he told funny stories.

4.0
3.0
PHI115
Feb 4, 2003

No Comments

4.0
2.0
PHI111L
Mar 19, 2003

fairly interesting guy and I'll forgive him for rambling since it was a phi class. Don't skip class though his quizes will hurt your grade, you'll still probably pass though because its an easy course.

5.0
2.0
111
May 8, 2003

Good guy, keeps yoru attention, don't take if you miss class alot

5.0
4.0
PHI111
Nov 11, 2003

great class, funny stories

4.0
2.0
PHI211
Jan 1, 2004

made me decide to minor in philosophy.....great course

5.0
3.0
PHI
Apr 30, 2004

I didn't do so well in this class but I definitely enjoyed it as Ron keeps your interest throughout and definitely dont miss class because there are pop quizzes all the time

5.0
1.0
PHYL
Sep 23, 2004

Good teaacher, very fare.

4.0
4.0
MINDWORLD
Oct 14, 2004

Very fair grader, you always know what to expect. Engaging lecturer, never boring. He's so loud that if anyone falls asleep in class, he wakes them up. However, many of his examples only make the material more confusing than it already is.

4.0
4.0
APHI111L
Grade: A-
Nov 3, 2004

Ron is a good teacher, except his wording is so technical and indirect...but I guess that's expected in a philosophy class. I'm not particularly interested in the subject, however, office hours are extremely helpful...you'll find he gives you answers to some questions on the upcoming tests.

4.0
4.0
MINDWORLD
Grade: A+
Nov 3, 2004

Ron is the funniest and one of the coolest professors that I've had. He is really nice, and tries hard to get us to internalize and understand the material. However, the class is very difficult--you've got to be on top of the material at ALL TIMES, or you will struggle a lot--it's tough.

5.0
2.0
PHY211
Nov 16, 2004

Probably the koolest professor I've had. He kicks ass. He's funny and entertaining. Attendance is a must for the Pop quizzes that have scary clowns. Notes available online. once,he couldn't make class, so he tape recorded a lecture and had his TA play it to the class. It was kool and kinda creepy!!!

3.0
5.0
MINDWORLD
Nov 30, 2004

Hard class for a 100 level. Seems to get off on his extremely hard tests. Is a little conceded.

4.0
3.0
MINDANDWORLD
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2004

his vocabulary makes the concepts kinda hard to understand, but it's do-able..the review sheets tell u xactly what to study and he puts all the notes online..study and def go to office hours n its fine

5.0
2.0
MINDANDWORLD
Dec 16, 2004

awesome guy, real chill. i thought the class was interesting and he is so loud its hard to drift off. dont buy the course packet, his tests are all based on lecture. i didnt get the packet based on a friends advice and am getting an A in the class

5.0
2.0
MINDWORLD
Jan 7, 2005

I simply took this class cuz i had nothing else to take, but i grew to luv it. It was an amazing class! don't buy the packet wast of $, go to his office hours he's a big help, and so is dave the TA! I found it not easy but an A is not that hard to get if u do ur work!!

4.0
2.0
APHI111
Jan 27, 2005

Very nice guy

3.0
3.0
MINDWORLD
Feb 1, 2005

He's funny and loud, and gives some really good and interesting lectures that I still can remember very clearly- but, he doesn't have class discussions. Not having discussions in a philosophy class is like not having labs in a science class.

5.0
3.0
MINDWORLD
Apr 12, 2005

I hate philosophy but this man made it more than tolerable.Lectures are all outlined on powerpoint, making studying for tests a breeze, just put in the time and effort. Going to class helps in the longrun, but isn't necessary all the time. dont buy the packet of photocopies...i didn't open it once.

5.0
4.0
415515
May 19, 2005

great professor. knows his stuff. doesn't dumb down the class. is available when you need him to be. interesting material.

4.0
4.0
MINDANDWORLD
Jun 7, 2005

Dont sleep through this class, you will be lost. I was lost, but it was a fun experiance anyway, if you have to take a philosophy class take it with McClamrock, he is an interesting character, an if you pay attention in class an go, you will do well. Careful of pop-quizes they really do pop up often, and kill your grade if you miss them.

2.0
2.0
INTROPHILOSOPH
Sep 3, 2005

After reading other reviews of this guy, I'm thinking that maybe he chilled out over the years. When I had him in 1997, he was a complete tool. And his class sucked.

5.0
3.0
MINDAMPWORLD
Sep 29, 2005

He was real good.. didn't get bored during the class.... its easy to fall behind.. but if you keep up the calss should be no problem

5.0
4.0
NUMEROUS
Jan 16, 2006

Prof McClamrock is, without question, one of the best professors I have ever had. He is deeply knowledgeable about the subject(s) he teaches and adept at distilling complex and abstract concepts in such a way so that they become accessible.

4.0
4.0
MINDANDWORLD
May 8, 2006

This man made me minor in philosophy. AWESOME

5.0
2.0
PHIL111
May 30, 2006

I loved this class. His lectures are organized, fun, and easy to follow. The course readings are interesting to learn more but are not necessary to do well. His grading policy (where he drops some grades) leaves plenty of room to improve even if you have a few hard days/topics. It was a great gen. ed. course. I would take this course again.

4.0
3.0
APHI111
Oct 10, 2006

Class is a big lecture, uses powerpoint (so easy to take notes) and posts them online. The only problem I have is that there is no class discussion, which is a huge help in Philosophy courses. He loves what he does - gives frequent pop quizzes to take attendance.

4.0
3.0
APHI111
Dec 30, 2006

Go to the reviews they give you all the answers to the actual test

4.0
4.0
PHI112
Jan 8, 2007

Tough class for a freshman. Intimidating at first, but this guy loves his job. Go to review sessions. Attendance is mandatory (pop quizzes) Studied 3 hours before each test and got a B+ for the semester.

3.0
3.0
APHI111
Jan 18, 2007

Challenging but good class. Attendance is mandatory because the pop quizzes can definitely affect your grade. Tests are hard IF you don't attend review sessions (a ton of answers are given at them).

5.0
3.0
APHI111
Jan 19, 2007

Good class for philosophy majors...easy to take notes, there all on powerpoint. Tests are super easy if you use the review sheet and go to revision sessions. Great guy as well as a great teacher.

4.0
2.0
APHI111
Jun 19, 2007

get the tests from someone who took it last semester. the tests are basically the same. go to the review sessions. go to class because he takes attendance with pop quizzes that count towards your grade. if you do all this you can just go to class and enjoy the material without worrying about the tests

5.0
2.0
APHI111
Dec 18, 2007

McClamrock is the best. Loud, passionate about philosophy, and wants you to succeed and learn. The class is easy but not very easy. Take the overhead notes off the class website, go to the review sessions before the test and read over the notes. That's all it takes for an A. Attendance is semi-mandatory because he gives pop-quizes. Have fun!

2.0
5.0
APHI111
Dec 21, 2007

One of the stupidest most worthless classes I ever took. Ron talks about complete nonsense ever lecture and is convinced that we are all living in the Matrix and our brains are all in jars on a shelf somewhere. Tests are close to impossible and his TA incorrectly graded almost every Test and quiz I took. Steer clear of this nightmare!

4.0
4.0
APHI111
Jan 19, 2008

This class is a challenge. Go to class because pop quiz's and polls count for 20% of your grade. Tests are really specific and don't expect to just float by, you need to know your stuff. Help is always available.

5.0
2.0
PHI110
Jan 24, 2008

I loved how he used South Park and Buffy the Vampire Slayer references in his logic equations. He made the subject much more user friendly. Although attendance is not mandatory, he told us right up front that attendance is majorly important, especially the class after a test was given.

5.0
3.0
PHI111
Jan 31, 2008

Good teacher really knows his stuff, course seems confusing at first but give it a chance and a more interesting topic will come up.

5.0
3.0
PHI111
Mar 30, 2008

Interesting class even if you don't have interest in the subject. Very straightforward and there is a good review sheet. Make sure you participate-it's a good chunk of your grade. Exams are easy if you study. Recommended.

5.0
3.0
APHI111
Apr 10, 2008

Great teacher, very engaging and really knows his stuff. He's passionate about what he teaches and has quite a personality. Take this class if you're into philosophy, it's quite something. You really need to understand the material to do well on the exams: just go to class every day and go to the review sessions, you'll do fine.

3.0
3.0
APHI111
May 20, 2008

Ron speaks very loudly and will probably confuse you at times. the tests are easy if you come to class and take notes. ALSO GO TO THE REVIEW SESSIONS!! he gives out some questions and answers that will be on the test. there are no textbooks and you dont have to read the stories he posts online.

4.0
3.0
APHI111Y
Oct 17, 2008

He was very engaging in the subject, however I didn't find the subject area was taught very clearly.

5.0
1.0
APHI111Y
Dec 23, 2008

This was one of the better gen ed classes I've taken. The material is pretty interesting and Ron does a good job of presenting it. There is virtually no work outside of class, except for reviewing your notes. Nothing on the exams is ever a surprise and I would definitely recommend the review sessions as they are worthwhile. Overall, a good class.

5.0
2.0
PHI218
Apr 20, 2009

Excellent professor. He focuses on in-class learning; outside reading is supplementary. He is interested and extremely well-versed in his subject. Your thinking about science will be clearer and more powerful after taking his "Understanding Science" course.

5.0
3.0
APHI218
Aug 31, 2009

Very good teacher willing to do his best to help any student understand the material

4.0
1.0
PHI111
Nov 2, 2009

nice prof! he will post audio on the webpage~~easy to get an A

4.0
4.0
PHI111
Nov 9, 2009

Great guy, very intense and he knows what he's doing. Its an iClicker class but attendance is extremely helpful. Its philosophy so its gonna be tough but Ron and his TA do a great job. Make sure to go to the review sessions his TA Ed does, just going and listening makes all the material make sense

4.0
3.0
APHI111
Nov 13, 2009

He is a very nice man and I do believe he wants his students to do well. I didnt know what this class was when I signed up for it but I feel it is one of my harder classes. The tests are all based on the overheads pretty much, but ALOT of memorization for the tests

4.0
4.0
PHI111
Mar 23, 2010

Hes very loud and his tests require studying but hes a great guy. Memorize things for the tests. Take good notes.

5.0
3.0
APHI111
Apr 15, 2010

He composes very interesting lectures, some that may be a bit confusing though. His tests require studying... not necessarily an easy A. Also, he gives clicker quizzes so make sure you attend class and pay attention.

5.0
2.0
TPHI111
Oct 28, 2010

clicker quizzes daily. Memorize slides entirely. He doesnt ask straight forward questions. Requires memorization. Not extremely hard but some studying necessary. At least 3 hours for each of his 4 tests. (drops lowest grade-get good grades and get out of final)

5.0
3.0
PHIL340
Jan 18, 2011

Very interesting topics, great lectures. Pretty straightforward overall, but the material requires review and at least a little studying. He's very tech-happy so you get audio of lectures if you're taking an LC class and the slides are posted on his website. All readings are in pdf. Makes everything really accessible and interesting. Great prof.

4.0
4.0
PHI111
Apr 17, 2012

Awesome, awesome professor. Knows the material upside-down and backwards, material is difficult but he teaches and explains it well. Loved this class.

4.0
4.0
PHI111
May 6, 2012

the guy definitely cares about his material and explains it as best anyone could. it is a philosophy class so i personally am not very interested in all the fantasy made up stuff that is philosophy.everything is extremely detailed but very manageable with the study guide he gives. with a decent amount of studying and going to class its not terrible

5.0
4.0
PHI111
Jun 11, 2012

Extremely good teacher. His class is well organized and he is a great communicator. The material is fairly difficult, but he makes every effort to help you understand it. Take advantage of the audio from the classes that he posts. It's extremely helpful. iClicker class with optional attendance, but it helps your grade a ton.

4.0
4.0
APHI111
Oct 8, 2012

Wow, this is a HARD class - and I'm doing well!! You NEED to go over and study the notes before each exam, or you'll fail (like half the class always does on the first exam); awesome professor though. Uses the iclicker every day. Material and readings can get very confusing. Don't take for an elective if you think it's an easy 'A' - it's NOT!!!

5.0
3.0
PHI111
Nov 17, 2012

Very interesting class if you like philosophy. Attendance was not mandatory but he did give a few iclicker quizzes and polls. You could use your notes on quizzes. 5 tests, he takes off the lowest grade. Also he usually curves the test grades slightly. Offers review sessions before class and has a good TA.Tests are very fair, easy if you study.

5.0
4.0
APHI218
Dec 24, 2013

Great professor but difficult class, at least the way he teaches it. He is very clear and his quizzes and test are difficult but you should be fine with adequate preparation. There was a TA to help with out of class hours.

5.0
3.0
PHI111
May 2, 2014

Passionate, well versed and very helpful professor. If you attend class and take notes that's all you need to do well. He has a great sense of humor and is an all around great guy. If you want to take a class that makes you think critically and is straight forward then this one is a great choice.

4.0
3.0
PHI111
Grade: B
Nov 16, 2014

iclicker needed for class so gta pay attention in order to get the quizzes rite. 5 tests a semester, and material not so interesting

4.0
4.0
APHI115
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 16, 2015

Ron is an amazing lecturer, and knows SO much about philosophy! The class itself though is HARD. Sometimes the lectures drag on but for the most part it's at least a little bit interesting. The tests are very hard, and you must study and go to office hours if you don't understand something. Trust me, working hard in this class will pay off.

5.0
3.0
APHI111
Dec 8, 2015

One of the best classes I've had. If you come to class every day, and pay attention you won't get lost. TA's are also really helpful

3.0
5.0
APHI111
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 10, 2016

Very hard class if you want an easy A do not take this as a gen ed. Not to mention the TA was very bad.

2.0
4.0
APHI111
Nov 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Very hard class. Although a passing grade is a 40/100, the tests are hard and tricky. TA's are no help. Attend every class and make sure you have your iclicker!

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
PHI111
Grade: B
Nov 17, 2016
Would take again

The material is hard to grasp. His notes are very general so you need to come to class and pay attention. If you doze off or don't come, you won't understand anything. He uses the clicker everyday but the answers are from previous notes. The tests are always curved and the readings aren't mandatory.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
PHI111
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2016
Would take again

There will be pop quizzes with the iClickers every single day. They are usually quite easy and based on notes and theyre open book. For tests though be VERY specific. I found I got the best grades when I simply memorized the notes and regurgitated them on the test. His topics are fairly interesting and he is quite energetic about what he's teaching

Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
3.0
4.0
APHI111
Dec 19, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Not a class to mess around with. Make sure you pay attention this is NOT an easy A.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Jan 12, 2017
Would take again

This class is really easy and the professor is really good at explaining the lectures. He only gives 5 exams and drops the lowest. Iclicker points are worth 20% of your grade so skipping class isn't a good idea. The exams are short answer questions and multiple choice questions. They aren't that hard, just make sure you read and memorize.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
2.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: B+
Feb 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

he rambles on during class and most of the time almost put me to sleep. even if you study and know the material front and back, its still near impossible to get an A on the exams. I had the exams for the class and i still didnt get better than a B+

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
4.0
5.0
APHI111
May 30, 2017
Would take again

super hard, but super good class. ta is cute

4.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 21, 2017
Would take again

Ron is awesome! He's very engaging and intelligent. There are multiple iClicker quizzes every day, he drops the lowest 5. 5 tests and he drops the lowest one. Tests are all short answer and are pretty challenging if you don't really study. No textbook, and the readings he gives are usually not tested. Overall, he's a great teacher.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
4.0
5.0
APHI111
Nov 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Good teacher but not very engaging. The content is difficult, but he's very good about answering questions and helping you understand. Very tough grader and will often drop points for very minor things, which can be very frustrating. Wouldn't recommend this class, but would recommend the professor if you're interested in Philosophy.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
PHI111
Grade: A-
Nov 28, 2017
Would take again

Honestly my favorite professor. Super engaged and enthusiastic about what he's teaching. The readings aren't even important so you have to go to class to know what he's teaching. Clicker quizzes everyday. There are also review sessions before each test. If you go to class, it's an easy A.

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
Would take again
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A-
Dec 11, 2017
Would take again

I'm one of those students who's always asking questions. Even if you aren't into philosophy, he seems to make any class interesting. I'm not a philosophy major, but I was still extremely intrigued. The professor is great, always seems interested in the students questions and explains everything slowly and well. Slides are great and straight forward

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

Really great guy! I often went to his office hours and he was more than willing to explain things to you one on one. He definitely breaks down his examples for you step by step. You kind of have to open your mind to understand this class, but it's very interesting and enjoyable. His clicker quizzers are open note, but you have to act fast!

Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
4.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: B
Jan 25, 2018
Would take again

The class is what you get out of it. Pay attention and take notes, it'll be very boring unless your really interested in it. He wants you to understand the material and if you take advantage of office hours you will pass the class. You can't use technology but it is for the best.

Tough Grader
Respected
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
APHI111
Apr 2, 2018
Would take again

Ron is by far one of the best professors I have had here at UA. The class is 5 exams with the lowest being dropped. He understands that the material is not the easiest for the students to grasp, so he is very willing to work with them. Interesting Humanities GenEd. Also, his TA gives review sessions the night before the exams. Go to them :)

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: B
Apr 23, 2018
Wouldn't take again

While lecture was interesting and somewhat balanced in terms of atheists and religion, it was certainly steering students to think to more atheists arguments. Counterarguments against religion did not really make sense sometimes. Tests are impossible. No Laptop or Phone use at all.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
PHI111
Grade: C
May 21, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Wow, what a ridiculously hard/boring class. I found myself writing pages and pages of notes on stuff that was nearly impossible to understand. Super super strict on no screens/cheating. Clicker questions every class. Ron was always happy to help during office hours and was really nice and smart, but this class was so hard for a 100 level.

4.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: Rather not say
Nov 12, 2018
Would take again

Loud (good). Always there to answer questions. The class Im taking is lots of memorizing. Im probably on the verge of failing but he is a pretty good teacher.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
APHI111
Grade: B-
Nov 13, 2018
Wouldn't take again

You need to be very invested in order to pass his class .

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
APHI111
Dec 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Wouldnt recommend this class. 100 level class but work and exams are more like 300-400 level.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Dec 27, 2018
Would take again

Amazing professor in terms of character you can tell he is passionate about his subject. You must be interested and engaged with the topics in order to do well, however.

Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Jan 6, 2019
Would take again

There's five tests. Not hard if you take notes and study. He drops the lowest grade so you end up with 4 tests, each counting 20% of your grade. Very reliant on clickers and that's the other 20%. Everything on the tests are on what he teaches in class so readings aren't mandatory. No homework, just lectures and tests. Very enjoyable class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
PHI111
Grade: C+
Jan 20, 2019
Would take again

Nice professor and TA, taking and a good note and reviewing is important. You should bring your iclicker, it will take a part in your final score. This class has five exams totally. The TA and professor are happy to answer your any question.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Apr 10, 2019
Would take again

Ron is the best philosophy professor, and maybe just the best professor in general at UAlbany. He organizes his class structures well, keeps class engaging, and cares about answering questions. For APHI 111 you don't need to do the readings, just go to every class and pay attention and take notes on WHAT HE SAYS, NOT JUST WHATS ON THE BOARD.

Inspirational
Amazing lectures
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: B-
May 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

good prof, knows what hes talking about and sometimes makes subtle jokes. 5 tests but drops the lowest one, not cumulative. uses clickers for quizzes every class, super easy bc its open notes. however, its a LOT of work. a bunch of notes and you need to study for hours if you want to pass the tests. good thing is he curves all of them.

Respected
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
APHI111
Oct 5, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Gen ed class but he teaches like he's teaching philosophy majors. Multiple clicker quizzes per class. Dropped this class like a sack of potatoes.

5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Oct 17, 2019
Would take again

This guy is awesome oh my god. He's my favorite teacher I've had so far. I'm going to be taking another class just so he can be my teacher again. Lots of in class clicker quizzes that he makes based on the notes you just took. The tests are a breeze if you read your notes over the night before the test and GO TO HIS STUDY THING THE NIGHT BEFORE!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
4.0
APHI111
Oct 28, 2019
Would take again

One of the best classes I've ever taken. He is very passionate about what he's teaching, and it made me actually want to go out of my way and learn about more about philosophy. Clicker quizzes every class, but open note. Study for tests as you learn and follow the study guide and you'll be okay, as long as you stay on top of the studying.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
Beware of pop quizzes
3.0
4.0
PHI111
Grade: A-
Dec 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Loud man, letters the whole class. Attendance is taken by clicker points, he gives mini quizzes and polls in class with the clickers but an easy way to maintain your grade with the points. Theres 5 tests all non cumulative. The material is hard to grasp and little challenging. He says there is readings but you dont have to do them

Lecture heavy
4.0
5.0
C-
Dec 22, 2019
Would take again

Hes pretty nice and understanding. Just dont use your phone in class.

Inspirational
Amazing lectures
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
3.0
PHI110
Grade: C+
May 1, 2020
Would take again

always found a way to keep the lectures entertaining and keep the class engage. Great professor would take his class again

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: A-
May 3, 2020
Would take again

Difficult concepts but was very repetitive which helped A LOT. However, pop quizzes were extremely hard compared to exams. Grading system is confusing but you end up getting the hang of it. Professor is very obviously an atheist himself which made the second half of the course notably biased but still interesting. Decently easy exams.

Participation matters
Beware of pop quizzes
Caring
3.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: B+
May 20, 2020
Would take again

NO TEXTBOOK AND VERY LITTLE TO READ SO GO TO CLASS!! He even says that if you miss lecture, it will be hard to understand the exams. Plus side is, the readings he posts are not that long or boring to read, but missing a week or two of classes will destroy your exam grade. Very fair grader, made 20% iClicker, then 80% tests (5 tests, drops lowest)

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
3.0
5.0
APHI111
Sep 22, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Hardest class ever, if you're not interested in philosophy at all whatsoever do not take it !!!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Beware of pop quizzes
4.0
2.0
APHI111
Grade: A+
Dec 6, 2021
Would take again

Loud guy! Sure jolts you awake for lecture time, haha. Definitely more of the science-y side of philosophy, not political or social (whether God exists, whether the mind the brain, etc.). iClicker quizzes every class. GO TO EXAM REVIEW for freebies. You don't really have to fully understand the topics to ace the exams just memorize key phrases.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
APHI111
Grade: D+
Dec 8, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This is only a good class if youre into Philosophy or a Philosophy major, otherwise pick a different class to complete your gen ed requirement. My friends and I were literally fighting for our lives to pass. And yes, go to class, because every class he uses clickers for quiz credit and attendance. Need to pass 2/5 exams to pass & its hard.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: A-
Jan 11, 2022
Would take again

This course is very lecture-heavy so you have to pay attention. There are probably easier courses for a gen-ed credit, but there's no homework except for optional readings so your grade is based on iClicker points and tests. He drops the lowest test grade and 7 lowest iClicker grades. Go to review sessions before tests!!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
APHI315
Grade: B
May 2, 2022

He assigns readings that even he says are extremely difficult to read and I found I didn't get anything out of them past Russell. However, his slides in class don't offer any help and are extremely confusing with many spelling mistakes. He also brings up religion and politics where they aren't appropriate and provide no benefit to learning.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 27, 2022
Would take again

Professor McClamrock is awesome, you can tell he really loves what he does. The class is a little boring sometimes unless you are really into philosophy but he makes it fun. The material is really interesting and makes it think. He does clicker quizzes as attendance but is super fair with test and quiz grades.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
APHI111
Nov 14, 2022
Would take again

In terms of understanding information, the lecture notes he has are kinda hard to grasp. Lecture heavy so dont miss class otherwise youll be lost. Fair grading, 5 test (non-cumulative) and drops the lowest. No hw but IClicker quizzes on class lessons. Honestly just make sure to take down notes and memorize them for class. No surprises on exams.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A-
Nov 20, 2022
Would take again

Professor Ron is an awesome professor! He gives 5 tests and drops the lowest one and gives clicker quizzes in class and drops the lowest 7 clicker grades. The material can be difficult so make sure you pay attention, write notes, and don't skip class. Also go to the review sessions before the tests and go to his office hours!

Inspirational
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
3.0
5.0
APHI111
Grade: C-
Dec 29, 2022

Took this class my freshman year since I needed the credit for a gen-ed. I would never take this class again. His test are every 2 weeks which isn't bad but they are IMPOSSIBLE to pass. Attendance isn't mandatory but he uses the clickers daily as quiz questions and they count so you need to be there and get them right. Good luck

Tough grader
Participation matters
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Jan 19, 2023
Would take again

be prepared for pop quizzes. as long as you study and pay attention, its an easy pass. Paying attention in lecture is crucial bc the stuff he says are typically on the test

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Beware of pop quizzes
3.0
3.0
APHI111
Jun 19, 2023

I cant say much about the professor himself as he was out most of the semester due to health issues. As for the class, most difficult class ever. Only graded on a couple tests. Tests consist of long and short response, as well as 20 ish multiple choice. Hard material to learn. Must go to class, iclickers used.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 8, 2023

This class was very stressful. The professor himself doesn't make it that way, it is just very information heavy. Tests require not knowing definitions but examples primarily. However, he is willing to help if you are struggling if you see him during office hours. Philosophy is very confusing, so if you take this class try not to make it an 8am.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: B
Dec 1, 2023
Would take again

Ron was my favorite professor by far. He speaks very loudly in class and is very clear with the concepts. You will need an Iclicker for 20% of your grade. there are 5 tests along the semester and he drops the lowest one. he also drops the lowest 7 Clicker grades. GO TO THE REVIEW. the TA will hand out answers and it makes a huge difference.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
APHI115
Grade: A-
Dec 4, 2023
Would take again

Prof. McClamrock's lectures are probably the best lectures I've had the pleasure to sit through. His lectures genuinely made me self reflect on my own values and beliefs. He is a harsh grader, but he cares about his students and is genuinely very nice. He takes students' feedback very seriously. Available outside of class often, would recommend.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: A-
Dec 4, 2023
Would take again

Would totally recommend! The way he describes topics makes it so if you pay attention to lecture, the concepts click in your head! The course material is also great, it helped me rethink my own beliefs. Prof cares deeply about his students and their feedback, and is super funny and kind. Definitely tough grader, attendance matters a lot.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
5.0
APHI111
Grade: A
Nov 23, 2024
Would take again

No homework, he is extremely lecture heavy so missing class will set you back. He has 5 big exams and curves every one, drops the lowest exam. Must have a remote Iclicker and he has 3 quizzes & 2-3 polls every day that affects your Clicker grade and ultimately affects your grade, so you must show up to class and take notes (No tech allowed)

Amazing lectures
Beware of pop quizzes
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: B+
Mar 18, 2025
Would take again

Probably the best professor ive had at UA yet. While the content of this course is relatively difficult, he is very good at explaining the content in a way that keeps you engaged and hopefully makes you understand it. In addition, McClamrock and his TA are always available to answer any and all questions you may have. No electronics in this class!

Amazing lectures
Respected
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: A-
May 9, 2025
Would take again

Prof McClamrock is an amazing professor. His class is tech-free, and he uses clickers for attendance/participation, but if you're okay with that, then you'll love his class. His class is lecture-heavy, but he's an awesome speaker and makes the topics very clear. Drops the lowest exam & 7 lowest clicker grades, so you're given some wiggle room.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
MINDANDWORLD
Grade: B
Nov 13, 2025

I would not recommend taking this philosophy course with this professor if you have other options. He is an extremely poor teacher and does not prepare students for the heavy exams or the complex vocabulary and material we are expected to memorize. Lectures feel unorganized and do little to actually help us understand the readings or key concepts.

Beware of pop quizzes
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
APHI111
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 18, 2025

You have to pay very close attention to the lectures and it's very boring. Attendance is mandatory with an iClicker that you have to buy, and there's pop quizzes. It's fake hard to study for the exams, I had to use ChatGPT to help me study lmao. Don't take this class if you don't like philosophy or have no prior knowledge abt it. Hope this helps.

Participation matters
5.0
1.0
APHI111
Grade: A+
Nov 28, 2025
Would take again

Great lectures, obviously loves what he is doing/teaching, funny, and makes the class easy. Don't go on your phone and focus a little bit and its an easy A. Great guy overall and highly recommend him for a gen ed or if you're interested in philosophy.

Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
APHI111
Grade: B+
Dec 16, 2025

Miss a lecture, and you'll pay the cost, but info is easy to learn and retain, professor is passionate as well.

Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

91%

Textbook Required

44%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

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Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 41 grades
Most common grades:
A- (10)
A (9)
B (8)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(10)C(4)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(14)
Based on 48 reported grades
A-: 10
A: 9
B: 8
Not sure yet: 5
Common Tags
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Lecture heavy (14)
LECTURE HEAVY (9)
TEST HEAVY (8)
Participation matters (8)
Amazing lectures (8)
Get ready to read (7)
Amazing lectures (7)
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