3.8

Roy McCord

Science - Irvine Valley College

3.8
Quality
2.8
Difficulty
33%
Would Retake
133
Reviews
3.8
Quality
2.8
Difficulty
3.9
Helpful
3.7
Clarity

33%

Would Retake

133

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

66

4

29

3

14

2

12

1

12

What Students Say

McCord does not care about his students

ASTR20 - 1.0 rating

Luckily he is retiring so you won't have to take him

ASTRO20 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

88%

Textbook Required

61%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 26 grades
Most common grades:
A (9)
B (4)
C+ (3)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(4)C(3)D(1)F(3)A-/B+(3)
Based on 28 reported grades
A: 9
B: 4
C+: 3
F: 3
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Tough Grader (6)
LECTURE HEAVY (3)
Hilarious (2)
Respected (2)
TEST HEAVY (2)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (2)
Participation matters (2)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.06 avg change
Jun
Oct
Nov
Mar
May
Aug
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ASTRO20HONORS

5.0

(1)

ASTROH20

5.0

(1)

ASTROGEN

5.0

(1)

ASTRO02

5.0

(1)

ASTR

5.0

(1)
+13 more courses
Difficulty by Course

AST

5.0

ASTRO10

5.0

ASTRON20

4.5

ASTRO1

3.3

AST1

3.0

Reviews (133)
5.0
1.0
ASTR20
May 29, 2003

Awesome teacher! He's really nice and knows his stuff. His tests are super super easy cuz he provides a study guide. If you know everything on the study guide then you will definitely get an A!

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Nov 10, 2003

He's a good teacher, but it'd be better if he'd shut up about politics and just teach. (Arnold Schwartseneger personaly destorying the Ozone layer with his hummer is not only just stupid whining, but has nothing to do with Astronomy!)

5.0
5.0
ASTR20
Aug 8, 2004

possibly the smartest prof here, mccord's class is pretty dang hard. however, he is one of the colest teachers ever. i liked his dry sense of humor... i took pass no pass, i aimed for a d and got a c. thtas how i do it.

5.0
4.0
AST1
Aug 28, 2004

I was dreading taking astronomy, but McCord made his a palatable course to say the least. I got an A, tank you!

4.0
5.0
AST
Sep 28, 2004

Wow, he made me sweat! Teacher is not easy but if you hang in there you might be suprized! He kept me on my toes. No Joke, but I did learn alot!

2.0
3.0
ASTRONOMY20
Nov 8, 2004

He focuses the course to the wrong direction, so you will lose interest in the subject. Take this course with Prof. Tan, trust me. She is much better.

3.0
4.0
AST20
Nov 9, 2004

He goes over the material too fast! can't keep up with him - his test are hard eventhough they are open book.

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Nov 10, 2004

I dont know why everyone is giving him a low rating. He was easy. What more can you ask for? He gives you questions like "What is the order of the planets starting from the planet closest to the sun?" on the test. He also gives you a study guide before each test which is stright forward.

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Nov 10, 2004

He also takes out problems where the majority of people got it wrong and let you keep the points if you got it right. He uses HW as free points on the test. If you do your HW its a letter grade boost. easy 80% B to a 90% A. He would even answers any questions you have before the test or final.

4.0
4.0
ASTRON20
Nov 18, 2004

I really like the class..... but i don't really understand the importance of the mid term project?? The tests are really hard, but overall i enjoy the class. He is also a funny guy!

5.0
1.0
ASTR20
Dec 2, 2004

He a good professor if you can tell the difference between a joke and a fact. His tests are easy and he keeps math at a minimum. If you do not do well in this class you don't do the homework, don't crack the book till the open book test, or have a difficult time with english.

3.0
3.0
ASTRONOMY20
Dec 2, 2004

good teacher, well structured class,but abuses his power to influence his political views. too many comments about his dissaproval toward America's government. politics do not apply to astronomy, he should keep it to himself.

2.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Dec 9, 2004

GOD!! THIS CLASS WAS SO HARD!! I WANTED STAB MYSELF IN THE EYE WITH MY PENCIL EVERYDAY, HE HAS A VERY ODD SENSE OF HUMOR, AND HE IS SO DORKY.

1.0
5.0
ASTRO20
Jan 27, 2005

He's a nice guy & he knows his stuff, but VERY unclear. His lectures are tough to follow. If you are not science minded you will be LOST.

3.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Feb 9, 2005

A lot of work, homwork, term paper and tests.... I like Math but he keep the math minmum.. sad..

5.0
1.0
ASTRONOMY20
May 19, 2005

Prof McCord, was the best professor I have had in college. He was the perfect professor, liked getting to know his students and made the classroom fun. I highly recomend taking his class. Easy B, put some effort in and its an A

5.0
3.0
ASTR20
Jun 9, 2005

If you study ( it's all memorization), then the A comes easy. He's a reasonably helpful teacher, and tries to make the subject interesting. He has a dorky sense of humor.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Aug 27, 2005

I took his Honors Class and passed with flying colors. Everything was pretty easy. He give you study guide before every test. Do you homework, read the material, complete study guide, and attend every class and you will pass. Also he curves the test and let you take 1 sheet of notes into class to take the test with. Take him for easy science!

5.0
2.0
ASTRONOMY20
Grade: A
Sep 17, 2005

He is one of my favorite teachers at ivc. great guy, gets to know his students and actually cares and wants all his students to do well and understand the information. if you have any questions about anything, he is willing to help and he is very understanding. if you go to class (25% of your gradeis attendance) and do your hw, you'll be fine. also, most of his tests he lets you use a cheat sheet. TAKE HIM!!!! :)

4.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Sep 18, 2005

Easy class if your looking for a physical science requirement. The best part is, if your not a good test taker, 25% of your grade is attendance/homework, and another 25% of your grade is a 'term paper'. it's not as scary as it sounds, plus the sheet of notes for each test helps out too.

4.0
3.0
ASTRONOMY
Oct 13, 2005

very dorky, hard to pay attention at times. Very helpful but unclear on assignments. Make sure you do homework otherwise you'll fail the tests.

1.0
5.0
ASTRON20
Grade: C+
Dec 7, 2005

Not recommended, He is very hard.

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20HONORS
Dec 16, 2005

THIS MAN IS A genius. MCCORD is now my favorite teacher of all time. he is hilarious, as well as smart. it bothers me so much that people left comments says something like "he tries to push his liberal agenda." he is only stating the truth when he says that nasa gets 0.0001% funding that the iraq war does. sorry it doesnt fit the repub. ag

5.0
3.0
ASTR20
Jan 9, 2006

This guy is amazing. He has experience in the field, so he knows what he's talking about. His lectures are simple Power Point presentations that make note-taking easy. He will always make sure you are prepared for tests, and he is a very fair grader. He also has a great sense of humor and is responsible for many many inside jokes ;) Go Roy!

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Jan 19, 2006

He is a great teacher, and one of the best I have ever had. I highly recomend taking him!!

2.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Sep 5, 2006

His lectures don't even remotely relate to the activities that you do in class. he has almost succeeded in making me as disinterested as possible. I like his general personality, but I have to wonder how people like this manage to get teaching jobs. If you like astronomy, don't take this guy...there's a good chance he'll ruin it for you.

4.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Oct 30, 2006

No Comments

5.0
3.0
ASTROH20
Nov 15, 2006

LOVE THIS GUY!! Awsome teacher. If you need a science class TAKE THIS ONE. Even if you are not interested in Astronomy you'll enjoy it. Sure at times you might think of killing the class, but in the long run you'll appreaciate the experience and all the work put into the class. Trust me you will not regret it! GO HONORS ASTRONOMY!!! with ROY MCCORD

5.0
2.0
AST20
Nov 28, 2006

Dude this guy is sooo tight. Knows his****. Plus, four tests, which he allows a one-sided sheet of full written notes. There's also Mid Term, which is kind of a drag easy as hell though. He's the man and you should take him for sure. Good attendence always helps

3.0
3.0
AST20
Dec 4, 2006

He's crazy and awesome. The pop quizzes are open note/book/mouth but he won't give you the correct answers afterwards. Cheat sheets for each test. Field trip to an observatory. You won't ever get out early. He takes roll at the end of EVERY class. Test days suck because he makes you wait around until everyone's done and then come back for lecture.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO1
Dec 17, 2006

Professor McCord is great. He is one of the clearest, kindest, most understanding, organized, and generous teachers I have EVER had in my life. At first, when you read the syllabus you might panic, but he is so understanding and nice that you would be amazed. I loved his class, and miss it.

5.0
3.0
ASTR20
Dec 19, 2006

McCord is one of the best teachers I have ever had. He makes a subject that could be very dry into really interesting stuff. Even if you hate science, he will keep you interested in class. Take advantage of the cheat sheet for the tests as many of the test questions are pretty detailed.

4.0
2.0
AST1
Jan 4, 2007

Passionate about Astronomy. Class is fun and informative. His lectures are structured a little strange but not difficult to get a good grade in his class. One full page of hand written notes for every test and he drops the lowest test.

5.0
1.0
AST20
Jan 6, 2007

He is great! As long as you show up do the homework and do average on the tests you will be fine. make sure you do all of the chapter homeworks they help you out big time on the tests. midterm was easy. he is a really nice guy and is always willing to help you out. a teacher that definitly wants you to do well!

5.0
5.0
ASTRO1
Feb 21, 2007

I love this professor! He is extremely passionate about astronomy and makes the class very interesting. He has an awesome sense of humor ,he is a very smart person... and for some reason reminds me of john nash. I enjoy his class very much and I wish IVC offered more astronomy courses with him.

5.0
1.0
AST20
Jun 8, 2007

Thought this was going to be boring. Just another GE. But McCord seriously changed my perception on Astronomy. Pleasure to have had him as a teacher. Extremely helpful, funny (though not at first).

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Jun 29, 2007

Professor McCord is fun and really cool teacher. His class is fairly easy and the topics he cover are very intersting! Like most people have mentioned before, he allows us to create cheat sheet for all the tests including midterm and final~ There is a required independent project and a term paper but he helped me with my project, very cool teacher~

4.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Sep 11, 2007

He reminds me of Josn Nash too! I thought I was the only one who saw it. He's a bit eccentric like he is but he is passionate about Astronomy

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Oct 16, 2007

He is the best teacher I have ever had. I would highly recommend him to everyone. You have got to take this class!!!!

4.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Oct 16, 2007

love this guy:) he's really smart and tries really hard to put difficult concepts into understandable terms. sometimes talks over your head but he won't test you on it. really approachable tho and has a great sense of humor

5.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Dec 6, 2007

He is great...seems hard in the beginning, but just attend class everyday, for attendance credit, Print the homework assignments and bring the class, the test comes from the Homework assignments, write small and copy the questions to your cheat sheet for the test. Awesome, easy A. He is the best Astronomy teacher ever.

5.0
1.0
ASTR20
Dec 19, 2007

I thought he was tough but end up I got a good grade in the class. Just follow his instruction on the term paper which are very very easy and do his hw ON TIME. Only 3 hw have to be turn in for hte whole semester and 1 final term paper plus the regular test which you can bring a whole sheet with your note on it. EASY A

4.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Jan 10, 2008

He reminds me so much of John Nash from "A Beautfiful Mind" it's crazy! No homework justs four tests and a cummulative final. But you always get a full page of cheat-sheet and he drops one test. There is an easy term paper where you watch movies and follow directions to get an easy A. There's a cool field trip to Anza observatory too.

5.0
3.0
AST20
Jan 13, 2008

amazing professor :) I enjoyed this class alot! If you do the homeworks (which aren't required to be turned in) you'll pass the tests no problem. Attendance isn't mandatory but a part of your grade :)

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Jan 31, 2008

He has a brilliant mind and will help you if needed. Just print out the lecture notes and homework, bring to class, he will help answer all ?'s. Four exams, one term paper. Just be on time and stay caught up. I would recommend teacher to anyone interested.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Apr 1, 2008

McCord is a brilliant man who deserves all of the credit we can give him. His class is reallllyyyy easy! just follow instructions! I aced it!

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
May 3, 2008

Professor McCord is one of the most phenomenal professor I have encountered. He is incredible knowledge about his subject and is definitely happy to pass that on. If you want a class which you will learn a lot from and will blow you away take this class with Prof. McCord!!

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
May 22, 2008

Go Professor Roy!!!! If you people need a science class to complete your general education, Astronomy 20 with Professor Roy McCord is the class to take. His lecutre notes are amazing. Trust me, after the first day of class you'll be rocking your grades out to either a B or an A all the doo-dah day semester long.

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Jul 5, 2008

I really enjoyed his class. He tries to make every aspect interesting, relating it to us. Allows a page of notes for tests and on questions that the class as whole doesn't do well on, he throws out, since to him thats means that he didn't teach it well enough. HW is laid out very clearly. I highly recommend his class.

4.0
3.0
ASTN20
Sep 19, 2008

professor mccord is an awesome teacher although my friend does not agree i think he is a great teacher and has a great personality. if you like the stars youll love roy. see you in class next week!!!!

5.0
2.0
ASTROGEN
Jan 2, 2009

what can i say about Roy McCord! he is a great teacher. he has a great sense of humor and he is very helpful. the first day of class he says its not hard to get a B. and he was very right. it was not hard at all. everyone take this class!!! you will love it as much as i did!!

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Jan 3, 2009

Astronomy owns!! so does Roy

4.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Jul 21, 2009

I had him for honors astronomy 20 and i'm glad I won the petition race! He's verily good at teaching while incorporating pertinent jokes into the matter - which keeps the tedious of classtime away. He allows reference sheets on one page for tests which helps out greatly if you need it. His jovial attitude is a blast since he's very helpful!

2.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Aug 23, 2009

Omg. He is so incredibly boring!!! I was really excited for this class because I wanted to learn about Astronomy and because he got good ratings. Astronomy is SO boring and, he's not that great of a professor. I nearly fell asleep EVERY class. Definitely an easy A, just excruciatingly BORING.

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Mar 1, 2010

Extremely good teacher. Tests are based off of homework. One page of notes allowed for test. If you're going to take astronomy, take McCord!

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Apr 13, 2010

This professor is BRILLIANT! He is one of the few professors at IVC who I really admire! His class is not boring at all and he has a great sense of humor. Take the astro honors class with him!!!

4.0
4.0
ASTR20
Jun 29, 2010

Tests are extremely hard! Yes, he lets you bring a page of notes, but even then I never got above a B-. I think he majorly curved everything. Lectures are interesting and easy to understand, but when I got to the test, it was a world apart. He's overall nice and helpful, but be prepared to study hard.

4.0
5.0
ASTRO10
Jul 19, 2010

Prof. McCord is nice, funny, and intelligent. I wouldn't take him again. If you want to know how smart he is and how dumb you are, take this class. I really wanted to learn about astronomy and didn't get from the class what I wanted. I suffered in this class and you will too. Don't miss any classes, attendence is essential. you get graded on it.

2.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Sep 22, 2010

He is boring... he shows power point in class and talk, talk, talk.. his voice is just flat and if you sit in back you can't hear him very well.. test is all multiple choice 49-50 numbers. he's not taking asking the questions from the homeworks he gave (only some questions in the HW came up.) Def. boring lecture.. well if you like astronomy you mig

2.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Sep 30, 2010

I LOVE Astronomy and he has killed my love for it. He doesn't answer questions, he just tells you to 'google' the answers on the study guide. Test questions are about a year something was made. He emails you homework and other instructions either the day before or that same day. Not descriptive and refuses to repeat. DO NOT TAKE HIM!

2.0
5.0
ASTRO20
Oct 16, 2010

You end up on google more than reading the textbook. Questions on the study guide are sometimes impossible to find, confusing, repeated, and sometimes don't even make sense whatsoever. I thought this class would be an interesting class and was looking forward to it. Now i just completely regret it.

1.0
5.0
ASTRO20
Nov 19, 2010

One of the worst teachers I have ever encountered. Unorganized,uninformative, unclear,and very uninteresting. I loved Astronomy(note: the past tense). He disregards the fact that he is a horrible teacher; therefore, curves all the tests. Any teacher that tells you to google an answer for the class material is most definitely questionable.ARROGANT

1.0
5.0
ASTRO20
Dec 15, 2010

DO NOT TAKE HIM!

5.0
2.0
ASTRO02
Dec 24, 2010

as a laid back learner who likes to be sucked in to an interesting lecture rather then merely read the book it was perfect for me. just come to class, read and listen to instructions, easy enough b. he is really a geniouus too, he like has this practical side to him that is so relatable.

5.0
1.0
ASTR20
Dec 26, 2010

Very nice teacher. He really knows his stuff. Recieved an A. Make sure you do your work and study but overall easy.

4.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Dec 27, 2010

UPSIDE = 1 page handwritten notes on every exam, on the final front and back. Hw's are not required to be turned in but are exactly what the questions are on the exam. He is more than willing to help explain things during office hours. DOWNSIDE = required field trip and lots of studying. BTW, lecture tutorial workbook only in 1st test.

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Jan 11, 2011

Great class, very easy (no math in the non-honors). Allows a page of notes handwritten on the test. Do your homework, make the study-sheet, show up (attendance is graded) and put a half decent effort into the project and you'll get an A. Also a fun teacher, in my opinion. (and dont be afraid to go to his office hours, he was very helpful)

1.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Apr 7, 2011

Classic example of a retired old man teaching for extra money. Best teachers are the ones who teach because they love teaching and watching students grow. Old trying to be funny. Unclear, disorganized, and has stale jokes. When the professor tells you to google it instead of teaching it = fail. Problem= he believes he's a good teacher.

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Apr 27, 2011

I took the honors section, and it was a great class. Astronomy should be a fun and interesting class and with Prof. McCord, it was. Unlike other IVC profs, McCord has office hours, and encourages you to use them. He genuinely wants his students to succeed, and it shows.

3.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Jun 20, 2011

Really nice guy, but teaching methods were a little hard to understand. For honors, make sure to do the homework and check your answers (they are what make up the test), and put in your best effort into the research notebook. Attendance is also a huge part of your final grade, don't miss a class!

4.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Jun 21, 2011

I had a fun time in his class and was interested in what he had to say. He allows one sheet of paper with answers for each test, so I suggest writing tiny if you want to fit in all the chapters. Also there is field trip required at Anza Observatory and you should go. Long drive but it was great seeing all those stars popping out at night.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Jul 11, 2011

The guy lays bare the information in front of you. He sets you up to ask the right questions. That being said, you do need to study and take notes, I didn't do that and the tests showed. It's worth noting, all those low ratings are from the same person.

1.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Sep 20, 2011

I think that he is one of the worst teachers that I have ever encountered. To me, he is uninformative, his lectures are boring, tells us to do lecture tutorials but does not go over the problems with us... etc. I mean, how the heck will I know if I'm doing it right or wrong? Do not take him! :(

5.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Oct 23, 2011

So funny and tell su exactly what u nee to know and the students make the test which is always openn note

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Nov 20, 2011

This guy is not only hilarious, but WE make the test and HE gives extra credit and everything is open book. Best teacher I've ever had in my LIFE! :)

4.0
2.0
ASTR20
Dec 22, 2011

Buy the recommended research notebook! He allows you to use anything that is written in that notebook for tests. I found the subject fascinating, but it can be a bit boring to some people. He makes the lectures interesting and is fairly funny. He does take roll but gives points for attending.

5.0
3.0
ASTR20
Jan 24, 2012

i dont know what people are doing giving this guy are hard time on ratemyp its seems like people just put all negatives because they failed. i just took his class he was one of the most intelligent teachers i have had. people dont understand he has all types of students as a community college prof and he cant fit every1s model of ideal

4.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Jan 27, 2012

Awesome professor, really cares about his students and is always willing to help.

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Mar 6, 2012

2nd best ivc teacher

5.0
1.0
ASTRO1
May 18, 2012

Great Professor! Loved this class. He allows you to use a scientific notebook to copy powerpoint slides and use on all exams and the final! Attendance is graded, theres a field trip and final project.

5.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Oct 10, 2012

I honestly do not know how I managed to get an A in this course. All I did was copy his power point lectures word for word within the required black notebook and used it on the tests, which were open note. I slept daily in his class and attended because he gave points for attendance. Sometimes Id dream about being a meteorite destroying dinosaurs

4.0
1.0
ASTR20
Jan 22, 2013

EASIEST CLASS EVER! I managed to pull a B when I pretty much got Cs and Ds on the tests. He lets you use a black scientific notebook for the tests and final. Don't even bother buying the book either. All the questions on the tests and final are based on his lectures and homework.

5.0
2.0
ASTR
Mar 21, 2013

field trip was dope. I like teachers who are willing to get involved with students and break teh academic rigourmortis.

4.0
2.0
ASTRO20
May 21, 2013

Not sure why I'm writing this review when he's retiring in a year or two. Great teacher, very clear and funny. His term project was the hardest thing ive ever done, so don't slack on that. His tests are easy but his field trip was boring, but i met someone awesome so it was worth it. Plus kudos to him for doing a field trip.

5.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Oct 27, 2013

An excellent professor who will help you along the way, although from my own experience of those I observed around me struggling, his coursework is only for the stout of heart and strong of educational desire. He will look out for you if you are engaging and hard working.

4.0
2.0
ASTR20
Jan 5, 2014

Mccord's class is pretty boring as everyday is mostly just powerpoint lectures that you need to copy down. His tests are also pretty difficult, but he lets you use your notes and also curves the tests pretty heavily which helps out alot. Otherwise, he is a really nice guy and the class is not that difficult. Just make sure to attend everyday.

5.0
1.0
ASTRO20
Jan 10, 2014

Best IVC teacher in my opinion. Makes the class fun as much as possible, it is lecture off of slides but he also shows you cool things in class to get a real life visual. He allows you to use a scientific notebook on all of his tests and the final, you can use as many notebooks as you want, so there is no excuse on getting a bad grade.

5.0
5.0
ASTRONOMY20
Jan 26, 2014

This class was difficult, tests were confusing, project was complex and the notes were hard to understand but overall this professor was great. He was extremely caring, helpful and available. Would tell you how what to study and how to prepare for the exams. Just make sure you go to class

2.0
5.0
ASTRO20
Feb 18, 2014

very hard teacher. his lectures are too fast and he does not explain them very well. very boring dont take unless you like astronomy.

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
May 21, 2014

Best Professor Ever this course is hard, bu the teacher is really helpful. Tests are open notes. Lectures are on slides. He tries to make the class as fun as possible.

5.0
3.0
ASTR20
Grade: A
May 22, 2014

Roy is an amazing professor. Roy not only teaches astronomy but teaches you life lessons along the way. Really helpful. 4 tests, and 1 cumulative final. tests are based on lectures, COPY EVERYTHING DOWN. open notes test. Like I said, Roy is an amazing professor, he understands that students have lives outside of school. Down to earth guy

5.0
2.0
ASTR20
Grade: A
Jul 11, 2014

Very cool teacher. He gives very interesting lectures and he is very engaging. Points are based on attendance, tests and 2 projects. Tests are open note so copy EVERYTHING down including diagrams and his rambling. The projects are easy points so get them done early because they take awhile to do. He is a great teacher and a very cool guy!

4.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Grade: B
Nov 30, 2014

I love this class! That doesn't mean it is easy, astronomy is a very complicated subject. Prof. McCord has office hours for a reason tho, if you don't understand something during class just ask him after and he will explain it thoroughly all over again. He has so much more to say than what is on PowerPoint and I feel that really shows his skills.

3.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Dec 4, 2014

This was a hard class and I rarely went to class so I deserved my C, but he is a great teacher. He's really witty and kind to his students. The term project helped me pass this class. All tests are open book but the questions are definitely tricky. If you're not into science (like me) this class can be hard to sit through, but he's great company.

3.0
4.0
ASTRO1
Grade: Incomplete
Jan 21, 2015

I hate to say this because he's such a great guy but I learned nothing in that class. Maybe the subject wasn't for me but I did talk to a lot of other students in my class and even the top students got C's on the second exam. Disappointed in the class. I would highly recommend taking Astro at OCC over taking it with McCord.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Jan 31, 2015

Easy and enjoyable class. Roy is a good professor. Come to class, take notes, use the notes on the tests, do the project (which is easy) and use your notes on the final. It's that simple. I'm terrible at math (there was a decent amount of math on the tests) and I still pulled Bs on tests. Project was easy. A B is attainable with little effort.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Mar 10, 2015

Freakishly intelligent and down-to-earth dude. One of the best professors at IVC for sure. But don't get blindsided by this class--it is extremely tough. There's math and complicated concepts involved. If your heart isn't in Astronomy, you're gonna struggle.

3.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Apr 14, 2015

He is a really nice teacher, but lectures are very boring and long. He doesn't speak up that well so you can't understand much of what he is saying. He goes so fast with his presentation that you can't write most of it down. Then when you go on his blackboard to get the lectures, they're very vague and confusing. Curves a lot and open book tests

3.0
4.0
ASTRO20
May 21, 2015

Great teacher, show up to class, participate, ask for help when needed, come prepared, and be organized. The material is kinda overwhelming but his tests are open book so that helps.

1.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Jun 1, 2015

He does not teach at all. Expects you to read with no help at all. DO NOT TAKE HIM. Although it is open book for tests, we dont know what to write in it because he does not teach. I passed the class with a B but it was stressful.

5.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Grade: A-
Jun 3, 2015

Top IVC experience. I think he might be retiring soon so take this class ASAP! It wasn't easy but he really motivated me to not be afraid of math. All you need to do to pass: Sit in the front and attend office hours if (when) you get lost. If you want an A you have to work pretty hard.

3.0
3.0
ASTR25
Grade: A
Jun 7, 2015

Allows you to use your notes on all tests! He takes roll every class and grades on "participation" which is really just attendance. He is a really nice guy, and understanding that most people are not going to be astronomers. He assigned a term project that was 25% of the final grade & it had very little to do with astronomy, so that was a bummer

4.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Grade: C+
Jun 17, 2015

The best part of this is he offers open note tests and anything is fair game in that notebook. There's only 4 tests. His term project is a pain, but if you follow his format correctly you will do fine on it. He's a fairly decent teacher, nice guy too. This class isn't easy, but it's not hard either.

4.0
4.0
ASTRO20
Grade: B
Jun 22, 2015

Prof. McCord allows his students to use notes on the tests and also devotes a lot of time to helping his students better understand the material during his office hours which I found to be very helpful. In my opinion, he is one of the best Prof. at IVC, which is shown in his teaching. Note: you do not need the book, just read the PowerPoint's.

2.0
4.0
ASTR20
Grade: F
Jun 25, 2015

Most of the other students failed the class. If you dont take perfect notes this class will be difficult.

5.0
3.0
ASTR1
Grade: A+
Jul 3, 2015

Professor McCord is a wonderful person and teacher. He's kind and helpful and very smart. I'm not a big science person but he's a great professor to take. Would definitely recommend.

4.0
3.0
ASTR20
Grade: A
Jul 14, 2015

He really knows his stuff! I found that I learned a lot and was interested in his lectures. He treats his students with respect and teaches a few life lessons along the way. You can use your notebook on the test, so write everything down. Tests are fairly difficult, but I didn't really study for them. I enjoyed the class and recommend it.

5.0
3.0
ASTRO20
Grade: B+
Jul 30, 2015

Prof. McCord is a great teacher. He will help you if you are having trouble understanding the lectures and or material. I really enjoyed taking his class. The only thing I would suggest to other students is to make sure you take realllllly good notes during lectures and make sure you use the black notebook. Highlight important info etc.

4.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Grade: A+
Nov 23, 2015

Took Astronomy as a last-minute addition but genuinely surprised at how much I liked it. Tests are open book but make sure to use the black notebook because that's the only thing he'll let you use during the test. Write down everything during lectures and stay organized so you know where to look instead of flipping everywhere to find an answer.

3.0
3.0
ASTR1
Dec 9, 2015

Your grade comes from tests, final exam, term project, and attendance. Each of the 4 is worth 25% of your grade. The tests/final are open-notebook. The term project is aggravating and irrelevant. The tests are a horror to look at; extremely unorganized with several errors. Slides go fast. He won't clarify what you miss. Annoying, boring, but easy.

5.0
1.0
ASTR20
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2015

Interesting class. Great Professor. He loves astronomy and you can tell he enjoys teaching it. Kind of an older dude who throws in some low-key jokes here and there that are pretty funny. He understands what its like to be a student and makes his class fit accordingly. He will tell you what you need for an A and thats it. Do it. Love him.

4.0
3.0
ASTR20
Grade: A
Jan 8, 2016

He's a wonderful teacher who is very aware of the people, school and what he is teaching. Study a few days before tests. There are pop quizzes every now and then, PLEASE KEEP THOSE POP QUIZZES. And learn to REALLY study.

5.0
1.0
ASTR20
Grade: B
Feb 9, 2016

Roy has an interesting perspective on life and this subject. I signed up because the time fit and I knew nothing about astrony, but really enjoyed. Astronomy could have been really painful, but Roy helped keep me curious enough to enjoy it. Ended up with a B after making a push in the second half of the semester.

2.0
4.0
ASTR20
Grade: Not sure yet
May 11, 2016

Don't. Just don't. It makes me sad I'm leaving a negative review on such a great guy but the class was honestly a let down. The lectures were fast and all over the place. He goes on rants about things that aren't class related. Come test time I never felt prepared from class material even after reading the book and taking SUPER thorough notes. :(

4.0
3.0
ASTRO20
May 11, 2016

As a person he's nice. As a professor, eh. He goes through his lectures pretty quickly, but he puts up the powerpoint online, (you get an advantage if you go to class and listen to lectures, because he'll show some slides that aren't online). Class is mandatory to understand the pp. open note for quizzes and test, be organized in your notes.

4.0
2.0
AST20
May 14, 2016

loved this class! show up and take decent notes in your notebook and you'll do fine. very clear on instructions and expects you to follow them exactly. highly recommend this class to everyone.

5.0
1.0
ASTR20
Grade: A+
May 20, 2016

Astronomy class can't get easier than this class. Final has questions pulled directly from the chapters exams. Just put in the right amount of the effort and you will get that A.

5.0
1.0
AST20
Grade: A
May 24, 2016

Attendance is 25 percent of the grade- go if you want an easy A. OPEN NOTE-BOOK! PROJECTS is just only follow directions-easy A. Tests? Drops lowest grade out of 4. Study guides are basically the test. Final is the previous tests mashed into a 50 question test. He even curves the tests if a lot of people get the same questions wrong.

3.0
3.0
AST20
Jun 20, 2016
Wouldn't take again

I took this class during the spring of 2016, this professor is very unenthusiastic and at times can make you fall asleep. However, this class is not hard; it's a drag. All you need is a specific astronomy note book from the student store and take good notes (literally) and you'll be fine.

5.0
3.0
AST20
Jun 24, 2016
Would take again

My favorite professor so far. Astronomy class was very amazing thanks to him, 10/10.

5.0
1.0
AST20
Oct 25, 2016
Would take again

Highly recommend McCord for an easy science credit. Very funny and easygoing and understands his students aren't going to become astronomers so any math is optional. You can use notebook on all tests including final, which are heavily based on the lectures so take good notes. homework is not required either and I haven't opened the textbook once

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
AST20
Nov 8, 2016
Would take again

He is one of few professors I can stay fully focused the whole time during lecture. Seemingly casual and hilarious, but professional. If you really listen during class, you will understand the concept instead of merely memorize. Stuff you want to memorize can be written on notebook, which you can bring in for exam. Respect.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
5.0
2.0
AST20
Mar 15, 2017
Would take again

He actually cares about whether you understand the material or not. He explains everything thoroughly and will even use experiments to really show how everything works and that it's factual, so that you aren't just taking his word for it. The tests are easy peasy, so long as you take good notes. All if his tests and quizzes are open notes!

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
ASTR20
Grade: B
May 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Oh Roy... where do I start? This class was so boring I couldn't help but sleep. His tests are so different from the lecture material. He sounds so unenthusiastic and just drags the lectures on for too long. If you really have to take this class, go ahead but if you really have a choice, don't take astronomy in the first place.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ASTRO20
Grade: C+
May 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This class is a joke. McCord is one of those professors who loves to make his students feel dumb. DO NOT bother asking him any questions, he will only make you feel dumb. He always curses in class and his course is such a waste of time. You do not learn anything. I don't even think he knows what he is lecturing about.

Tough Grader
1.0
5.0
ASTR20
Grade: F
May 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

McCord does not care about his students. His lectures were pointless. His tests were each 50 Questions. 4 Tests, 1 Final, 1 Group project, 1 Field trip, and you had to buy his scientific notebook from the bookstore. All open note tests, which are pointless. You could have written every single word in the text book and STILL manage to fail each test

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
3.0
AST20
Grade: A-
May 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He was an alright teacher. He was very nice and fun in the class; however, he is not very clear on answering questions and will tell you to look at the notes. His power points were not very clear. You DO need to study for the tests or you won't pass. Overall, he was a decent teacher at best.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
ASTR20
Grade: F
May 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Do not bother with this course.

1.0
4.0
ASTRO20
May 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Luckily he is retiring so you won't have to take him.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
AST20
Grade: D+
May 30, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This class is somewhat difficult. You have to work for the grade and it is not an easy A. He is very unorganized and very unclear about class expectations. If given the opportunity to take astronomy with a different professor then do so! Class is very challenging because of confusing directions

Tough Grader
1.0
5.0
AST20
May 30, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Don't reccomend

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
AST20
May 30, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Very unprofessional in his lectures. Used a lot of words to "fill in" his powerpoints. Very unclear with expectations

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
ASTRO20
Grade: A
Aug 22, 2017
Would take again

Mr. McCord was a good professor, took him as my first college course while still in high school. He lets you use your notes on the test and the test is solely on the power point. He says you need to read the textbook but I never did and got an A. He frequently did live demonstrations of things like physical laws which brought life to the class.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

88%

Textbook Required

61%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 26 grades
Most common grades:
A (9)
B (4)
C+ (3)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(4)C(3)D(1)F(3)A-/B+(3)
Based on 28 reported grades
A: 9
B: 4
C+: 3
F: 3
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Tough Grader (6)
LECTURE HEAVY (3)
Hilarious (2)
Respected (2)
TEST HEAVY (2)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (2)
Participation matters (2)
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