2.8
Quality3.6
Difficulty22%
Would Retake170
Reviews22%
Would Retake
170
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
53
4
19
3
13
2
10
1
75
What Students Say
“beware is all I can say since I cant really say what I want to on here”
POLS2301 - 3.0 rating“The tests are timed at 1 hour for 50 questions”
POLS2302 - 1.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
69%
Textbook Required
55%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B-
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Declining
-2.36 avg changeRatings by Course
POLSI2301
5.0
(1)HIST101
5.0
(1)POLYA
5.0
(1)POLS6
5.0
(1)GOV1301
5.0
(2)Difficulty by Course
2301
4.6
POL2301
4.1
POLIS2301
3.8
POLS1301
3.6
POLS1302
3.5
Reviews (170)
Brand new prof. probably knows her stuff but lectures very unclear and hard to follow. she focuses on current events for half the class so you don't get a good lecure. tests come from book, lecture, and current events. you have to blog every week. read the chapters and you might do ok.
Follow along in the book. Mainly vocab. DO your BLOGGING. That has to be the most inconvienent assignment. It is really not that difficult. Stay on top of current events. They will be on the test. Overall I have learned alot and she makes the class interesting.
No Comments
Pretty easy, read the book, do the blog, pay attention to the current events discussion in class. No need to take notes, she repeats whats in the book. Easy A
Here is the deal. She is in her early 30's. She is smart and doesn't put up with the BS. One of my favorite teachers ever. This class was extremely easy, if you do your work and follow her rules. She is not your babysitter and won't tolerate lazy, rude students. Otherwise she is funny and easy to relate to. If you are a slacker, don't take her.
She is an awesome Instructor, test are basically the vocab from the chapters and some current events, make sure you DO the Blog. it is 15% of your grade but if you do all the beginning ones it is a breeze. lectures are easy to follow and she keeps the class intrested. EASY A!
Really wants us to learn about subject. She does this in a way that we are likely to remember better. She does assign blogging.
Amazing teacher, very helpful and extremely interesting. You do need to study and you do need to go to class.
So pretty easy class, I usally made Bs on all the test and then she would always put a small curve on the test to make it an A. Blogging is a GREAT way to help your avg, attendance is part of your grade. Pretty boring subject, besides the current events. All and all good teacher and easy class. I took her for both POLS and would't take anyone els
A great Teacher. She is always willing to help any student out. But beware you have to do this weekly blog for 15% of your grade. Also you really need to participate.
LOVED. THIS. CLASS.
This was a very interesting professor! She doesn't want you to just get a grade, but to really understand the material. She wants the students to keep up with current events and really participate in the class. Took her for both classes. Wouldn't take anyone else!
overall good teacher. i took her for a summer class. wasn't bad at all. multiple choice tests that are mostly vocab. you'll learn though she gives decent lectures
Easy A. Let me break it down for you. Simple test 70%. Attendance/Participation 15%. BLOGGING 15%. 1st two are easy but blogging is different. You are required to do 6 blogs on a assigned state. Do ten blogs and give 50% effort and you'll do fine. The blog is the only time consuming part of this class and it's not intellectually stimulating at all.
Awesome teacher, i'm waking up early just to take her for 2302. Best you can get
Loved Government 1 with her. Just go to class write down everything she talks about and you'll do fine. Blogs aren't that bad at all either. Also she's very down to Earth and is pretty cool to have a conversation with.
LOVEDDD this class! She is an awesome teacher!!! Take her if you can! You must blog in the class, but it is not that bad it only has to be done 6 out of many weeks! She is very helpful and willing to help you in any way!
Very enjoyable class!! Loved this teacher!
Ms. Gubala is a wonderful teacher. She is very helpful. Study your notes, do your blogs, (I would pick the easy ones) and you will do great!
GREAT TEACHER REALLY GETS YOU INTO THE MATERIAL BEING STUDIED. TEST ARE STRAIGHT FROM THE NOTES STUDY THOSE AND MAKE AN A. HATED BLOGGING VERY TIME CONSUMING.
She's awesome, you will get your monies worth. She actually loves her job and she does a wonderful job teaching.
I advise everyone to take her for pols. Her method of teaching is very comprehensive, and her tests are straight from the notes. Her final is optional and although the blogs are time consuming, they aren't hard to do. I passed this class with a B
GREAT TEACHER!! She made the class very interesting, and encouraged participation. Be sure to blog in her class and write all the notes down. Her test come straight from the notes. No need for a book either, just make sure you get the clicker. Would love to take her for the 2302!
Good professor. If you pay attention in class and take good notes, you'll do just fine.
The exams are HEAVY (blue book long). she's a nice lady and a good teacher but she ASKS FOR TOO MUCH! Everything your required to turn in is lengthy & if your not a POl. Science Major you'll be Bored out of your mind but still expected to participate in class discussions. cant say i would recommend her..
obviously, if you don't come to class, pay attention, and study you will fail. Keep in mind that everyone who rates the professor negatively, more than likely failed the class because of their own shortcomings. If you want someone who will just hand out grades, maybe you should look into attending the University of Phoenix, or a community college.
Fun teacher who really cares about her students. Requires blogging but it is not so bad if you do the early blogs. Enjoyed using clickers and loved the video clips used in class. Gives study guide for tests.
She is nice
AWESOME TEACHER. Attendance is mandatory. You DO NOT NEED THE BOOK! Do the blogs, they suck but you just gotta do them. Get the clicker. She's very chill and knows what she is talking about. Tests are straight from her lectures and she lets you choose to take the optional final. She is awesome, and a great asset to Lamar University. :)
Mandatory Attendance, blogs are required but just do them. you're a college student, you're perfectly capable of doing it.. don't be lazy. YOU WILL NOT NEED THE BOOK! DO NOT BUY IT FROM THAT CRIME OF A BOOKSTORE. she gives study guides and she lets you take the optional final. Truly a great teacher and a great asset to Lamar University! :)
One of the best profs at Lamar. The only downside is blogging, but even that isn't so bad. I learned a lot in her class and gained an interest in political science. She's really nice and caring. You really don't need the text book either. If she taught AM GOV 2 I would have taken her again.
Very good professor.
She has a 14 pg syllabus. She is detail-oriented and expects everyone to participate. More than just test, there are several out of class assignments. I recommend taking this in the summer if you can. If you are not a strong writer, find another instructor because one assignment was 8 pgs. I really enjoyed the course tho
Very helpful, the tests are somewhat hard but she gives study guides and her lectures are very helpful. You a required to 5 blogs throughout the semester which are hard but you get to choose which ones you do. Overall I would recommend this class.
Took her for 2301 over the summer. One of the easier classes. She essentially outlines her lecture on the board and elaborates. Just copy what she writes and include any extra info she gives and use flashcards and you'll make an A on every test easily. Also, do the assignments and show some effort on those. No reason not to make an A in her class.
A lot of students complain about the blogs, but it really is not that hard, it just takes time to research the material. Her tests are a bit tricky, but study your notes and there is no reason why you won't make an A.
The easiest class you will ever take! The blogging is not hard..don't listen to anyone else. The tests are not hard either. If you just take notes, the WHOLE test is there. You get points for just using your clicker. Don't take any one else for this class. I'm not a Political Science major and I loved this class.
Take her in summer, you won't have to blog. You don't need the book. She writes down her notes in outline format on the whiteboard. If you copy and memorize them, you'll do good on the tests, which she provides a study guide for.She really knows her stuff and socializes with the class a lot, which makes it a more interesting.
LOVE this woman! Knows her stuff and very entertaining. Her sarcasm keeps me focused. Attendance is mandatory, and you have to complete weekly blogs. Take all the notes she writes on the board and you will pass her tests with no problem. Gives plenty of opportunity for extra credit. Very understanding if there is an issue.
Will not recommend anyone to take her class again, test are way harder than the notes she gives out in class. beware is all I can say since I cant really say what I want to on here
I really enjoyed this class overall. It was way more interesting than I thought it would be. You do have to blog, so what!! You have a week to do them, tests are hard but if you study they are not bad. If you do your work, you can get an A because you can do extra blog posts to help your overall grade.
By far one of the best teachers I've taken at Lamar University.I would highly suggest taking her for any political science class. The blogs are EASY points. I wish she was giving POLS 2302 in Spring 2014. Take notes, read the book, pay attention in class (which requires attending class) do the blogs, and expect a high B or an A. No questions asked.
Super helpful instructor, has alot of work for the class but it makes alot of ways to earn an A. Highly recommend
She is AWESOME! She is always willing to help and gives bonus points quite frequently. Must stay on top of blogs, and reading assignments.
LOVE Ms. Gubala! If you pay attention and write what's on the board, you will do well on the tests. She's an awesome teacher. The blogs can be a bit much, but anything over the requirement is extra credit. She's Awesome!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Take her ! Point Blank Period... She knowledgeable and you can tell she really loves the topic her job but she teaches in a way such that anyone can understand her as well as the topic.. If you are so lucky to fail this class it is because you wanted to fail the class.
She is hilarious. I actually would understand what she was trying to teach. The blogs are the hardest part of the course but you only have to do 5 out of 12.
Wonderful professor. She really made the class interesting and is passionate about government. Blogs are a bit of a pain, but just do a comment and current event if you don't have the time. She's an awesome teacher, I enjoyed her class. No reason you shouldn't get an A if you do the blogs and minimal studying for tests.
Gubala is hilarious and very nice. Great professor overall, but if you're working full time and going to school full time, you might want to reconsider taking her class. The blogs take time to do, and while you only have to do 5 out of 12, that amount is still hard to accomplish on a tight schedule. Never needed the book.
Better be a good note taker listener and researcher because that's this class in a nutshell. She really cares about what she teaches and is not afraid to tell you that.
I enjoyed this class Ms. Gubala is cool. When you study make sure to do the whole review and you will be fine. The only thing that was annoying was the blogs. Other then that if you do what you are suppose to do you will do well. Very straight forward class. You get all the notes you will need make sure to sit upfront.
Ms Sara is one of the harshest professor I've ever had. Definitely not taking her again, exams are tough and her grading is extremely tough. Her requirements for everything is just way too high (Homework and blogging assignments). attendance isn't required but if you're not coming to class and take notes then you're not going to pass
I loved Mrs. Gubala! But for her class you must go, she does class activities vey often and you get the points as long as your there. She also does the class blogs. In order to have an A you must do them, they aren't hard just need time given to them. The tests are pretty clear cut as long as you pay attention in lecture, and reviews for tests.
I took her class and was really afraid of the whole political science thing but she worked with me heavily on everything and was availible to me in a variety of ways. Do the blogs and show up to class to do activities and clicker questions they are your review! Got a B and only because she cared and urged/convinced me to take the final. Love her!
Overall nice teacher, good video presentations. The amount of work this this level of class is too much. She is a very hard grader. I would not advise to take this class if you have other classes as well. To get an A I would say take this class and only one more.
For POLS 2302 online class - 5 total discussion forums, 4 exams and a paper. For an 8 week class, that is not too much work at all. Now, as with any online class, you do have to read, watch the videos and study. If you are not willing to do the work do not take online classes
She's an excellent professor; she explains in a way we can all understand & stimulate an interest in politics. Sure the blogs can be a strenuous amount of effort, college isn't easy lol. If you do more than required blogging, you can earn 6 extra credit pts which is worth a lot in this class. I made 2 C's, an A, & D on tests; managed to get an A.
Prof Gubala knows her stuff and is great teacher; very encouraging as she makes POLS interesting too. Take really good notes, multiple choice test, participate in class, attendence necessary but she does tried to work with you. Do the blogs; 1st 5 and get it over with. Definitely would take her again. Highly recommend.
Makes it extremely difficult to meet her requirements. Weekly blogging is a pain and test are created from the test but you must know the answer best fit the question. Also meaning other answers are potentially correct.
Gubala is awesome! While I think the blogging is really overkill, this class isn't too terrible. There's a iclicker system in the classroom, so it's important that you're there to answer the questions that usually happen at the end of class. She's really chill and just wants you to get your stuff done. Come to class - there's lots of good lectures!
Very hard grader. There are discussions that require two responses each and all three posts (Discussion, Response 1, Response 2) need to be cited and well organized and planned out like a research paper. The tests are timed at 1 hour for 50 questions. Be prepared. When students asked questions in open forum style email, they were quickly hushed.
Don't sleep through any tests and you'll be fine :)
This is one of the worst professors I have had here at lamar. Unclear expectations and feedback on failed assignments. Does not give you testing feedback so you don't know what you missed and what you didn't. Free textbook but it changes constantly so the reading assignments do not match tests.
This class was pretty easy, notes from bell to bell. Takes attendance and showing up late for an in-class assignment will mean you miss out that day. Good class, learned a lot about government, do recommend.
Overall a great professor. Fairly easy for the most part, just study the notes. There are some quizzes but they're super easy. The only thing I didn't really like were the blog posts, they took some time but just make sure you put effort into it because getting a good grade on those can really help your overall grade.
Great professor! She made government fun. Two essays, four test and an optional final. Quiz at the beginning of almost every class. If you're late, you won't get a chance to do it. Copy notes off of the board and study for tests. She gives review but you have to fill it out.
The class is almost entirely lecture and writing notes down off of the board but the topics are usually pretty interesting and thought provoking. Like most college classes if you show up, do the assignments, and study before the test you should get a good grade. Would definitely recommend for Government 1.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE Gubala. But dude GO TO CLASS. I missed class a lot and lost attendance points and got a B. I cried but it happens. No PowerPoints - she writes on the board. For the test, she also includes current news into them, and you need to study. But, she posts a review the class day before the test (i.e. posted Tues. for Thurs. test).
Worst class I've ever taken. She is a tough grader and always returns assignments back late. She writes her notes on the board which you cant even read as she has horrible handwriting. She does not explain herself either on what to do on assignments. No laptop or voice recorder allowed. STAY AWAY FROM HER IF YOU CARE ABOUT YOUR G.P.A.
Majority of grade 4 test, opt. final, & attendance/participation/quizzes (which is worth just as much as test) She gives you a study guide but not helpful therefore study all your notes & read the book. She gives you pop-quizzes as soon as class starts & will take off points if you miss class. Handwritten is hard to read. Does not give extra credit
Gubala is a solid professor. I really enjoyed her lectures and personality. However, I disliked her class. She operates the classroom like we are high school students. She is highly offended when someone takes out a phone or takes a picture of the board. Furthermore, her handwriting is awful and small. If you don't sit in the front, good luck.
I chose this class thinking it was an easy A but it wasn't. There were 2 assignments (not hard at all), 4 exams & an optional final. The exams were out of her notes but I still preferred to read the chapters. I slowly got the hang of it (86, 92, 100 on the exams) but I must say, I spend at least 7-9 hours studying for the test a day before the exam
Arbitrarily applies attendance policy for online courses. Scheduled as a self-paced class, but you might find yourself counted absent and reported to financial aid if you don't do the "optional" material, regardless of your final grade.
Prof. Gubala is great! She is pretty strict on attendance, phone usage, due dates, etc., but she really knows what she's talking about. You'll definitely learn a lot! She uses multi-colored markers during lecture notes to indicate new ideas which really helped me focus. The class itself was fairly simple with a manageable workload!
Ms. Gubala was a wonderful professor! She's very helpful outside of class and will work with you if you let her know what'g going on. There are 4 exams, 2 assignments, and an optional final! The exams can be difficult so it is important to start studying way in advance so you're not cramming it all in last minute, both assignments are super easy!
Gubala's class is not hard if you can study notes. Basically her tests are terminology and concepts. Also the textbook probably would've helped me but I honestly did very well in her class based on the notes she provided during class. Also beware that if you miss a class day, you WILL miss crucial information.
she is one of the terrible professors that you'll ever see in your life she so rude she does not even care about students she doesn't care if your sick or not. i would not recommend taking her class
My exam went blank and I immediately spoke to her bout it but she would not reset it. She says it was in the syllabus but it was not my fault that it blanked.. I got a poor grade on the exam because of that. Heard good things about her but did not experience that. I recommend taking this course in her class or you may encounter issues like I did.
I hate her
Professor Gubala is a stickler for attendance. Skip class and you will NOT pass. The tests come from the notes but the tests are more detailed than the notes. Ms. Gubala does post a fill in the blank review the class day before the test which helps. Book is not required, but highly recommend reading it as test questions come from the book.
She is very rude and I'm truly confused as to why. She argues back and forth with students, in FRONT of other students and she makes smart remarks to students. She does not care if it offends the student(s) either. Ive witnessed it myself. Her handwriting is not legible at all! Therefore, I would not recommend anyone take her course. Seriously!
This online class started the whole national pandemic and we all knew what was going on and with all our classes being moved online, she still added work after work after work. We just took our first test over TWO chapters and our term paper is due in FOUR days over what we've learned this semester... the semester just started, like, what?!
Attendance is mandatory because her lectures are note-based, meaning she allows no pictures or laptops in class. Study guides are uploaded 1-2 days before the exam with 60+ terms and exams are 50 questions. One letter assignment. Shes unbiased and clear she knows the material. It can feel stressful because of the amount of work needed.
Do not take her
So this lady gives out clear syllabus yes. But all the test questions are "critical thinking". Answer choices so similar it comes down to one word difference between right/wrong answer. If your uninterested in history like me this will be a very hard course for you as all the readings are long and boring asf!!
Must read. Lecture heavy and book reading mandatory.
very nice, you do have to read and study for exams
I loved this class. There are a few small assignments that are easy points so do them. There are i clicker points that do help review the topics. the lectures cover all of the necessary material. The textbook is not necessary but it does help review. There are study guides posted the day before the tests that show all of the necessary review topics
This is the worst professor ever! If ur thinking abt taking her, DONT! If shes ur last option, WAIT TIL NEXT SEMESTER! If ur taking her & feel like youll fail or get a bad vibe, DROP IMMED. Coldest teacher I hve ever met. She embarrasses ppl that disagree with her. If ur 1 min late to class or an assign 0. She has no sympathy for real life strug
I took Gubala online. It was not hard at all. I just had an incident where my test closed itself some questions in so I emailed her about it. She told me that she could not reset the test because I was already past number 30 and that that would be my final grade. If it was not for that, I would have made an A. She was pretty lenient about the paper
Honestly the worse professor Ive taken thus far! She is very rude and grades very hard. She gives test over material she has not gone over in class. She is unreasonable when it comes to grades and things you cant control like power outages. She gives extensively long work that is only worth a couple points. Do not take, choose another professor!
Not very helpful, does not give any real type of extra credit. Lets students fail the class even though they actually try to pass. I would avoid taking her at all cost. she does not really care about the students. the way the class is set up is if you fail more than 2 quizzes you most likely WILL NOT pass the class
You won't get by from lectures/attending There were things on the tests that she didn't go over in her lectures Tests get very specific- little details that most people see as insignificant Removes the test materials for a test the day before test day, so no last minute cramming Shows little to no mercy when grading TOUGH class No wiggle room
I consider myself pretty cold hearted but man, this lady made me seem like a sappy Hallmark movie by comparison. Seriously, she does not care at all about any of the struggles faced by her students. If you want to be accused of using a device that reads the answers out loud during a test (no, Im being serious) then this class is for you.
If you have to take this class online please dont. I have heard good things from students who took her in person but I think with going online she stopped trying. She expects so much without regard to our other classes. Also doesnt understand students situations- I had an emergency with work and when I emailed her asking for and hour she said no.
In Texas after our snowstorm, I emailed her asked if our exam had moved and she replied back with attitude and I still didn't even know when the exam was, I failed that same exam. She emails back quickly but isn't helpful in the slightest.
Just another professor who took the opportunity for easy money at an online that class where all they have to do is make you read a book and use a horrible program that does their job for them.
This professor doesn't care about you AT ALL! She is very rude and would rather see you fail than pass the class. I have an exam coming up tomorrow, and she deletes the lectures covering the chapters the day before the exam. Everyone in the class is failing and she's not trying to make a change. She is the WORST professor I've ever met.
I can understand the level of difficulty to earn a good grade if it was exclusive to political science majors. But it's not. As such, the difficulty level is unreasonable. In addition to hours of lectures and tons of reading, you are also given supplemental materials that is required. I've had engineering/math classes that was way easier. Avoid.
Just don't. Find someone else. That's all.
Would not take again. Maybe her in person class is better but this online class is bad.
She is the worst teacher there is. Choose another POLS teacher.
She is the hardest professor I have ever taken considering I'm an engineering student. She is not worth taking. Find a new professor to take.
didn’t care about our grades or us learning not even passing and very rude
Terrible, Terrible , Terrible. Would never take her class again. Do not recommend taking her class choose another professor.
The hardest to deal with professor I had with my time at Lamar. Not an evil person by any means, but her communication was terrible and she had a habit of dishing out zero's on papers to students who would make A's on her tests. Not willing to discuss miscommunications on assignments and doesn't have the best attitude. Take Collins instead.
Professor G requires a lot of assignments to be completed and she has hard deadlines. Her lectures are long but great. They thoroughly explain the material. She's very responsive to emails, on testing areas during proctored exams, and very helpful when emailed questions regarding the term paper. Her class is what an online course should look like.
This is the most accurate review: Extremely hard difficulty for a introductory class even for off topic majors. I have better grades in Calculus 1, 2, and 3, than in her class Online exams are proctored by Honorlock. Just read the reviews and you'll see how bad it is Horrible at in depth replies to emails Exams focus on random minor details >:(
Would not recommend this professor !! Class has lengthy and tedious assignments . Test and quizzes are harshly proctored. All assignments are due at 6 pm ! She absolutely unreasonable and inconsiderate of the lives of college students
The experience i have had with this said individual has been a complete waste of time and energy.
DO NOT TAKE !!!!!!!!!!!! IF YOU HAVE GOALS IN SCHOOL DO NOT TAKE !!!! even if you do not care for school dont take !!!! Even if school is paid for and you are in school for free , DO NOT TAKE !!!!!!!!!!! She is very rude. doesnt care for anything , but pol science. If i can give this lady a -0 rating i would , she is horrible literally. DO NOT !
DO NOT TAKE , it will mess up your gpa. If you are a freshman engineering student take this class later so Co-ops and internships will see a better gpa!
Your grade reflects 3 exams, homework, discussion boards, a letter, and an optional final. The homework is an easy 100, you can do it until you receive the grade you would like. The exams are easy as long as you study. Overall, as long as you care, she cares. She also talks about her dogs a lot which keeps the class interesting.
BRACE YOURSELF! I have never had an professor like her, she is VERY test heavy, quiz heavy, material heavy, everything is x10. When taking an exam you need to stand up and video your WHOLE room, and then take a mirror and show what is on your screen, and god forbid if you read the question allowed. JUST DON'T WITH THIS CLASS!
Buy the textbooks and read it before listening to the lectures. Print the review sheet and answer each question with information from the textbooks (takes 4-6 hours). This class requires you to allocate your time efficiently. Do the work and do it well, do not procrastinate with this class.
DO NOT TAKE, if you care about your GPA, it will DROP. Assignments on blackboard (homework) is due at 6:00 PM unlike other professors who allows you to submit assignments/homework at 11:59 PM!!! --NOTE~ TECHNOLOGY IS NOT ALLOWED! NO PHONES, NO LAPTOPS! (BE PREPARED TO TAKE A LOT OF NOTES. I MEAN A LOT)
VERY lecture heavy, make sure you bring a journal bc there are NO electronic use allowed (iPad, computer, etc) lecture was fun bc other students were actively participating and we discussed real time political issue (roe v wade, train derailments, economy issues, BRICKS). Super fun, 10/10
If you can change professors, DO IT IMMEDIATELY! Extremely impolite and her online class was wildly over the top as far as difficulty. I urge you to not take this course under any circumstances. The syllabus is 42 pages long. The assignments are not clearly defined; good luck getting more than a single worded condescending response. AVOID!!!
DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR!!! Avoid her class at all cost, especially if taken online. No clear guidance, confusing, and not helpful.
This intro class was the hardest class I took this semester, and there was no reason it should have been this difficult, as it was not even an honors class. She only released her study guides a few days prior to the test and her powerpoints/lectures were not posted anywhere (in addition to this you can't take any pictures). DO NOT TAKE!!!!!
Weekly lectures, and busywork that is easy. Very stupid paper, 3 topics from the book and 1 contemporary problem. This doesn't sound bad, but she put a ridiculous amount of rules on it. She seems nice, but her class has been hell.
Great speaker. Distraction-free environment, does not allow phones (for the better, believe me). If you pay attention, you will pass. EVERYTHING can be found on quizlet. HW is annoying but not difficult (thx quizlet). Course structure helped me a lot. If you actually interact with her, you are rewarded in a sense. Tests are easy (legit study guide)
Would advise avoiding this professor if possible. She expects a lot in a short period and has some strict, odd rules. This class has nothing to do with my major yet I needed it for my degree. That being said, I had to spend more time working on stuff for her class than my degree-oriented classes.
DO NOT TAKE THIS TEACHER! I repeat do not take this class with this teacher. The fact there is a 45 page sylabus should tell you not to take this class with this teacher. Way to much work for a class that has nothing to do with my major. You are better off taking it at LIT. Do not waste your time or money on this class.
Literally didn't help when I emailed her, just referred me to the directions/syllabus/assignment, when that was the exact thing that was causing me confusion. Smh bro. Never again. I do hear that she's better in person though, and i had her online for Gov 1.
Tests are a little difficult, and she is strict sometimes. However, her class is relatively easy, and she gives you plenty of warning before assignments are due. Just be prepared for a couple lengthy writing assignments.
This course is challenging, with extensive reading, online lectures, and frequent quizzes/homework. While the instructor isn't lacking in teaching ability, the course itself is demanding. Homework is manageable, but quizzes and tests are proctored, and a term paper is required at the end.
Uses the honor lock system which is a clear violation of privacy and if you do not consent you fail the class. Ridiculous.
This is one of the hardest courses I have ever had to take. I would not recommend this professor to anyone ever. I did not like this class. She did not do a good job of effectively fitting everything into summer in a way that would not be strenuous. Exams were extremely hard. Term paper was very difficult and not explained appropriately. 0/10
This is the hardest class I have taken. I've emailed her a lot of times for help and she just goes by the syllabus. The honor lock is also hard because she makes sure she does everything to a tee her grading is hard, she's no help. I would never take this class again. I would say try a different professor
This class is no walk in the park, but putting in the work can pay off. Utilize the textbook, attend lectures, and try unstuck AI for efficient study prep - it really helped me out.
Be ready to take notes, she does not allow technology and covers a lot of things in each class. Missing more than like one day will put you very behind. The material itself is fine and she is very understanding. Just make sure to pay attention in class
Do not take this professor. This was by far the hardest class I've ever taken. Expect no help, I emailed for help and she replies quick but her responses are useless. The term paper is unclear with contradicting instructions and extremely hard grading. The proctored expectations for tests are absolutely ridiculous. Don't do this to yourself.
terrible bad not good awful very unfun
I took her class online. She's very strict, and you'll initially feel overwhelmed, but you'll adjust. Her test are tough, so study the videos, slides,and don't slack off. She might curve grades, but not guaranteed. The essay is hard. Just stay on top of assignments and study. One positive is she actually teaches the material well, so you'll learn.
Professor Gubala is clear, supportive, and truly passionate about teaching. She's dedicated to her students and follows the syllabus closely. One of the kindest professors at Lamar, as long as you stay committed and study! You have to put in the work.
Overall, V. boring teacher/class and unnecessarily difficult for non major course. - Long lecture - Uninteresting - Felt like HS class when she would demand someone to put phone up - Quizlet heavy for HW - Test are v. material heavy so studying is a must. - A couple writing assignments - An A is possible if you put in work, do all extra credit!
Worst Professor I have ever had. I had nightmares over this class until I dropped it.
She isn't a very good professor. Her tests are very detailed and hard. So much information to read and study for a class that I have to take for credit, not anything I need for my degree. Be prepared to barely pass or not pass at all, she won't care.
so much information to take in. she's a proctor crazy, points deducted for the smallest of details if she sees it. you have to read between two books of us gov and Texas. too much for an intro class so beware when taking this class.
The test and quizzes are window-proctored, no single test has the same questions, no erratic looking around, no talking/humming during test or points deducted, you have to show that you turned your phone off and placed it elsewhere in the room, you have to use a mirror to show your keyboard and monitor, and the list goes on. Assignments every day.
By far the worst class I've ever taken, between the many chapters we must read between two books, assignments almost every day and a paper that you must find sources that isn't on her do not use list “ which is a lot” Tests are proctored and points deducted if not done her way. Go elsewhere, this is way to much of a headache for an intro class.
Awful 10/10 would not recommend
This professor makes her class so needlessly difficult. Picking acceptable sources for your paper is like pulling teeth, she nitpicks everything. There's homework every day to "make it like a real class", but I chose an online class for a reason. Teaches this class like it's life or death when it is a GENERAL EDUCATION requirement. Seriously?
This is truly the worst class/teacher I have ever had. She is nearly impossible to please. There are assignments due everyday. There is a test every week or two. They are incredibly hard and proctored. I would never take again
First thing is her tests are nothing like her study guides. You have about 2 weeks to study for her 50 question tests but she sends out the study guide 4 days before the test. She can be rude if you accidentally do something wrong and takes points off for the smallest details. She is super strict and grades hard. DO NOT TAKE HER!
DO. NOT. TAKE. SARA GUBALA.
Do NOT take her class! She has ridiculous rules and expectations. In her 25 page syllabus she has rules like if you email her asking about extra credit, she will take 5 points off your final grade. I wrote a 4 page paper and she gave me a 0 for using one wrong source. Her exams are also proctored and needlessly difficult. Avoid at all costs!
She has very strict rules/grading but most of the creative projects are convoluted and she doesn't properly explain most assignments. No asking for extra credit, no asking if the topic you're using will be deemed not topic worthy, very strict proctoring, and AVG amount of homework. Never again will I not vet my professor for a nonessential class.
Do not take this class. Nothing is ever good enough for her. She makes assignments due at 6pm, so they are easy to forget about. Her tests are worded in a way that's difficult to understand. It's almost like she doesn't want anyone to pass. She makes a study guide, but only releases it two days before the test, so there is barely time to study
The online version of this course was very time consuming. Everyday you have an assignment due at 10 pm, which can be difficult for students who have work or multiple classwork assignments. You would also have to write a research paper that contains strict rules on what you are allowed to write. So if you take this class have good time management!
Awful experience! The class has a 25 page syllabus and has so many needless requirements. She is very particular about how things must be done and her rubrics are unnecessarily complex and counter intuitive.
Not a good professor. Exams are overly strict—you can lose 15 points just for how you sit. Syllabus is 30+ pages with tons of rules, plus an essay full of restrictions that make it harder than it should be. Exams include tiny, irrelevant details from one sentence in the book or random parts of lecture.
I would avoid taking this course and professor at this school altogether. Too much non-sense. Believe the recent prior reviews. Since it's a general requirement for every major I made the incorrect assumption that this class wouldn't be so bad. I was wrong. Points can be taken for mindless reasons on exams. Paper is graded like a dissertation.
closes all study material 48 hours before the exam. makes all assignments due at 10 pm. syllabus is extremely convoluted and about 30 pages long. not amenable in discussing extensions or extra credit for any reasons. i quote "if an elongated hospital visit hinders your performance in this class, consider dropping the course before the due date"
An awful professor who does not give credit for work if you are missing something. Even if you did everything else. There are way too many papers and instructions that are contradictory; not even the syllabus is clear. It expects a lot but does not provide any help.
Gives tons of work but cares more about rules and guidelines than the content you are learning. She has all her necessary information scattered throughout Blackboard, and points will be deducted if you miss anything. Her lectures are quite nice and give a lot of valuable information, but sadly, her overwhelming tasks make this class a nightmare.
AWFUL CLASS I DO NOT
I just want to say that this is the worst class I have ever taken online. I have written many essays in my entire life in all subjects never have I ever received a ZERO. She gave me a zero because apparently I used this essay from another "Course" mind you this is my first government class because it's just a freshman government class.
horrible don't even have any other words.
Asynchronous learning. Tons and tons of video lectures and very little time to learn what is required of the class. Strict grading guidelines where the smallest mistakes can get you a 0 on any assignment. No second chances to make up work.
Took her my sophomore year for POLS 2301, and I loved her! She does not allow phones, but that honestly helped me focus on what we were learning during the lectures. Attendance is crucial for success in her class. Dr. Gubala is also very caring and has a big heart. Would recommend if you learn better via lectures!
Terrible! I failed a test and later she took additional points off the test i had already failed btw. Due to the fact my ears were covered in a bonnet and i could've quote “been cheating”
She is really strict.
She takes points off for everything and doesn't give you a second chance. She's too extra with every assignment.
Worst Professor ever and unnecessarily strict, don't recommend her at all, and takes points off over small things.
Don't do it to yourself just take this class at LIT, LSCPA or Orange. Responds with sarcastic remarks if you ask questions most unprofessional professor I've taken ever.
A homework assignment every single day. Toughest grader I have ever taken, and she speaks to people like they are below her intellectually. Her lectures are INSANELY LONG. I had a 4.0 before this class. I am so thankful this wasn't major related so I could scrape by with a D and never take it again. It was so stressful. Truly an awful professor.
Who passed this class for fall 25? class average was a 58.1
(Online specifics) Homework assignments were due bidaily, and with someone with a packed schedule daily I couldn't do everything at once. Modules close a day before the test opens, and that includes the lectures. Harsh grader, tests are where your points truly matter. Lost my scholarship because of this. Take anybody else.
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
69%
Textbook Required
55%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B-
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Declining
-2.36 avg changeRatings by Course
POLSI2301
5.0
(1)HIST101
5.0
(1)POLYA
5.0
(1)POLS6
5.0
(1)GOV1301
5.0
(2)Difficulty by Course
2301
4.6
POL2301
4.1
POLIS2301
3.8
POLS1301
3.6
POLS1302
3.5