2.7

Shane Smith

Mathematics - Santa Monica College

2.7
Quality
3.4
Difficulty
48%
Would Retake
133
Reviews
2.7
Quality
3.4
Difficulty
2.8
Helpful
2.6
Clarity

48%

Would Retake

133

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

25

4

24

3

20

2

31

1

33

What Students Say

Fairly generous grading system but excessive homework

MATH07 - 5.0 rating

I don't know there are so many bad reviews out here, he honestly is there to truly help you

MATH07 - 4.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

68%

Textbook Required

50%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 27 grades
Most common grades:
A (9)
B (5)
Not sure yet (5)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(6)C(3)D(3)F(1)A-/B+(3)
Based on 38 reported grades
A: 9
B: 5
Not sure yet: 5
A+: 4
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (16)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (9)
Lots of homework (8)
Graded by few things (8)
Caring (6)
Tough grader (5)
Hilarious (3)
Test heavy (3)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.44 avg change
Oct
Nov
Jan
Apr
Jul
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MATH2503

5.0

(1)

MATH8

4.2

(6)

MATHS7

4.0

(1)

MATH21FINITE

4.0

(1)

MATH8SUMMER

4.0

(1)
+19 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ALG3200

5.0

MATH4344

5.0

MATH120

5.0

MATH54

4.3

MATH

4.0

Reviews (133)
4.0
3.0
MATH7
Aug 6, 2003

hard exams, you need to know how to write up the proofs correctly. overall a good teacher though he likes to go one random, unrelavent math tangents at times...

2.0
2.0
MATH7
Feb 16, 2004

Easy exam if you do read the text-book,do revision EX and all the past paper.Wiling to answer all kinds of questions.However he doesn't have a very clear concept and skillful in some field,sometomes had a wrong calculation.

4.0
3.0
MATHS7
Feb 17, 2004

Took his Winter session, and was very willing to add in his class (man, added around 20 students!). First few exams were quite tough, but he'd dump u with marks in the end. MC's weigh quite a lot, and look out for the proofs.

1.0
5.0
MATH7
Mar 14, 2004

I thought overall Smith was disorganized and heavily prone to errors. He should teach lower level math. Gives tests in sloppy handwriting. Unprofessional. Do not delete, this is the truth!

1.0
3.0
MATH
Mar 30, 2004

Shane is what you would call a m.oron because he doesn't seem to know the material as well to be an educator.him and all of his students seems to be on the same LEVEL.maybe HE should do his homework before coming to class not stop in the middle of lecture

2.0
5.0
MATH
Apr 3, 2004

No Comments

2.0
5.0
MATH7
Apr 4, 2004

HE gives tests in really bad handwriting.I am warning You to see his website for the claas you want to take: http://homepage.smc.edu/smith_shane/ There are MUCH better math teachers!

2.0
4.0
MATH22
May 21, 2004

Very disorganized never knew which chapter we were taking. Lost his book during semester and gave exams that were impossible to solve within the given time. Not recommended. Stressful exams and you have to teach yourself from your book.

2.0
4.0
MATH20
Jun 9, 2004

There are simply better math teachers out there. Though Smith is very knowlegable when it comes to math, he is often unhelpful and rude. He trys to avoid questions. We didn't even get a study guide for the final! Avoid him if possible.

2.0
3.0
MATH22
Jun 10, 2004

Very nice person bt a lousy taecher. Didn't learn a thing from him threw the all semester. Lucky for me, the book was very clear. Not recomonded.

1.0
4.0
MATH2
Jun 20, 2004

Awful class. Pain in the ... Don't take him!!!!

4.0
2.0
MATH22
Jun 22, 2004

The course itself is rather easy. Just study the chapters and it shouldn't be that hard. Tests aren't too difficult in my opinion. Though, Shane does have a bad habit of being tardy himself, and being disorganized.

4.0
5.0
MATH7
Jul 6, 2004

I can say that I consider him my friend, but his class can be extremely difficult for the average calculus novice. He's teaching method is more conceptual than calculative. Despite it all, I was able to learn many ideas that made me stand out in math 8.

1.0
5.0
MATH22
Jul 9, 2004

Did not like him at all. He teaches about a topic for half the class and then says that we do not need it for the test....what the heck is that about? What teacher does that? I just barely got by with a D in the class. NEVER take him!

2.0
4.0
MATH22
Jul 15, 2004

shane is a good teacher to those who know some math, but if u have been away from math for a while stay way from Shaney,he will tear you up. because he assumes you know you know the material. he is not a bad teacher only he if didn't assume anything.

1.0
5.0
MATH2
Aug 18, 2004

If you care about your GPA, don't take him. Final 40% of grade. Ruthless amounts of homework. Extremely disorganized and flighty. Lectures for hours on things that will not be on exam. I urge you to take another prof.

4.0
5.0
MATH20
Sep 5, 2004

nice guy, but not a clear teacher. way too many problems on the test which makes it hard to get a decent grade. majority of class were getting D's and F's on tests. takes a week to return tests and homework.

3.0
3.0
MATH2
Nov 10, 2004

He gave a tons of homework and the class is so boring. He just do the exercise from the book in the entire class.

3.0
4.0
MATH22
Nov 20, 2004

Ok Ok! I know he is really bad. But it's not ALL that bad. I ran into most everyone from my class and we all managed A's & B's. I mean, he grades on a curve. Lots of homework indeed, unresponsive to questions, and expects us to raise our hands & be called on. It is possible to do decent though.

2.0
1.0
MATH22
Nov 23, 2004

he seems to be confused himself at times, but if you can learn by yourself then his class shouldn't be a problem.

1.0
1.0
MATH7
Feb 16, 2005

easy but very unclear and unhelpful

4.0
3.0
MATH84
Feb 17, 2005

Started to take his class.. not a good math person so I had to drop.. he was very helpful though.. I still didn't get it.. he's kinda cute... and weird...

2.0
4.0
MATH2
Mar 23, 2005

Rather unorganized, gives tons of homework, hard tests and does not give many example that will be on the tests. Goes on for hours about useless material and keeps talking about math7 (how you'll need to know this and that). Not worth your time.

1.0
3.0
MATH21
Grade: A
Apr 19, 2005

He was one of the most boring math teacher's i've ever had. he helped me in no way, i did everything by myself and when i asked any questions his response was always "i have no time right now, ask me after class".

4.0
4.0
MATH2
Jun 13, 2005

Good teacher. If you don't want to read, do homework or study, then don't go to college. Get a job at Wal-Mart and leave the space to those who care. Prof Smith was a engaging professor who explained the material. Can you learn Math by just showing up for class 3 hours a week? NO! But do the homework, go to class, and you'll be fine. Trust me.

3.0
5.0
MATH2
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Jun 16, 2005

Literally half the class drops, many students even gave up during the last three weeks. Final is reasonable, but all other tests are hard. Unless your a math nerd, as Smith says himself, your not going to do well in his class. He is a cutie though, so if you want to see a good-looking prof but don't want to learn then he's your guy.

5.0
5.0
MATH2
Jul 2, 2005

you are gonna work in this class, but he is the BEST math teacher i've ever had. he teaches material that will help in upper division math courses. his teaching style has helped me succeed in math 7 & beyond. his tests are not easy, but they are very fair. his grading is also very fair. he's also easy to look at *hottie* & quick wit & humor.

3.0
5.0
MATH2
Jul 10, 2005

Math is hard...even harder when you have to read the entire textbook because a teacher's notes are so difficult to follow. Unless you want to read over 700 mind-straining pages, then this is not your guy.

1.0
4.0
MATH2
Grade: B
Jul 19, 2005

This dude can fill up a chalkboard with mindnumbing proofs in less than 10 minutes. Made a relatively easy class like Precalculus into a mathematical nightmare. I tremble with fear when I reminisce back on this class. He's basically talking to himself during lecture, just spewing out proofs. Very unapproachable.

5.0
3.0
MATH20
Aug 7, 2005

Take him if you want to move on to upper division math classes. He gives in-depth proofs, often off of the top of his head, lot's of homework that you MUST do (and more probably) in order to get an A. Nice, pleasant, but a little befuddled and disorganized but REALLY knows his stuff.

1.0
4.0
MATH21
Oct 9, 2005

His teaching abilities are close to none. He writes pointless crap on the board, and explains the material like we are all math dork wizards like him.

5.0
1.0
MATH2
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Oct 21, 2005

To be honest, he's not a good teacher who explains things in interesting ways but he certainly is a nice person who has the sense of humor.He gives in-depth proofs and explanations which will be very helpful if you are planning on taking math 7 & 8.His tests are fair if you do all your homework and study for at least two hours before u take a test.

1.0
3.0
MATH2
Oct 24, 2005

Was not clear on any of his lectures, I think he didn't prepare for them beforehand. I dreaded going to that class.

5.0
1.0
MATH2
Oct 31, 2005

I like the way he makes a boring math class fun by his great sense of humor!!!!

2.0
3.0
MATH2
Dec 10, 2005

He is a nice guy but his class is very boring. He will pay u a penny if asnwer a question. And his jok is not so funny. A lot of HW, u need to do most of all the odds problems each section. u will die when u doing the HW.

3.0
2.0
MATHEMATICS21
Jan 4, 2006

Be advised, in-class instruction can deviate from required information. This negates the logic behind mandatory attendance.

3.0
1.0
MATH2
Jan 9, 2006

It is easy to get an A in his class, but a lot of homeworks to do

4.0
2.0
MATH21FINITE
Jan 25, 2006

I haven't taken math in 4 years and I suck bad at it. I got a B. Decent amount of HW all due at test,you can skip some problems in each one. Boring lectures, decent at explaining stuff. Tests are curved nicely. What is key is doing the homework and taking notes. You have to practice the problems repeatedly before the test, so u can do them.Ok class

1.0
5.0
MATH22
Jan 30, 2006

this guy can't teach at all most of the kids fail his classes so what does that tell you about teaching skills he needs to go into another line of work

1.0
5.0
MATH22
Feb 16, 2006

he is of poor quality. he do not give any questions for practise during the class. he just keep on writing the theories and some questions on the board, but do not give any questions for practise during the lecture.

1.0
4.0
MATH22
Feb 28, 2006

I did not like this professor. This is the worst professor i have taken in SMC. Avoid taking him if you want to keep your GPA High. He does not know how to teach.

2.0
4.0
MATH22
Apr 29, 2006

Not a good teacher. Very unclear. If you want an A then be ready to spend a lot of time trying to figure out the concepts by yourself. Take someone else if you can.

1.0
5.0
MATH2
May 11, 2006

No Comments

4.0
2.0
MATH8SUMMER
Aug 13, 2006

8 weeks class, pretty easy, can drop an exam out of 4 exams + 40% final. 5-10% curve every exam. just do homework and his old exams you will be fine. P.S. hot blonde chicks will get a B at least.

1.0
5.0
ALG3200
Sep 20, 2006

Unfortunately I signed up for Math 20 at the end of the summer, initially having decided not to take this class in the fall. However upon changing my mind, found there were only two classes available, one of which was Smith's class, which I am in now. I find his sporadic punctuality not only discouraging but rude. He expects more of the students

5.0
1.0
MATH84
Oct 19, 2006

He is very nice, always willing to help. Make sure you raise hands to ask questions. I don't understand why others give him a bad rating. He will stay after class to help you and he is friendly. The class is very easy, the homework a lot.

5.0
2.0
MATH8
Oct 26, 2006

He is very nice and easy if you did all the homework he assigned. You can drop a test and he curves a lot! I don't understand why ppl said he is difficult. Anyway, he is nice to student and helpful. You will enjoy his class. HE IS AWESOME!!!!

2.0
5.0
MATH20
Dec 15, 2006

His exams are very difficult.I really don't like his class.

1.0
3.0
MATH20
Jan 11, 2007

Do NOT take him. It was me and the book the whole semester because listening to him would just create confusion. Had an A going into the final, most people dropped him, and he gave me a B. Not even remotely aware of how bad he is and utterly arrogant and unaffected by students not learning. He does not care. RUN

3.0
3.0
MATH84
Jan 19, 2007

He is kind of confusing...but I was just about to fail and he helped me through it so that's cool. No he's a pretty good teacher, just more of a high school teacher.

1.0
5.0
MATH4344
Jan 20, 2007

awful, ****

3.0
2.0
MATH22
Feb 2, 2007

Super boring class, too much homework. But he is a nice guy and he give you curve for your grade, so it's not too bad.

5.0
3.0
MATH2
Jun 5, 2007

he's a very nice teacher in the sense that he is willing to help students through the course. Plus, he's cute!

4.0
4.0
MATH84
Aug 21, 2007

shane was easy but went thru material fast. the class was fun, and interesting.

2.0
4.0
MATH2
Aug 24, 2007

not so good at teaching.

2.0
2.0
MATH2
Sep 14, 2007

Final is 40%? ludicrous.. But other than this, he's awesome. He curves A LOT, and if you do homework, you'll be fine. If you think you'll be ok w 40% of final, then take him. Otherwise, ....

1.0
5.0
MATH2
Oct 15, 2007

This proffesor is cery HARD!!! I dont recommend unless you love homework and like to teach yourself the course. He just goes on and on as if he was reading the lecture and doent really explain much

1.0
5.0
MATH7
Nov 4, 2007

explanations are not good

1.0
5.0
MATH2
Nov 18, 2007

I passed this class but I am going to be taking it again due to the fact that I didnt learn anything. I will definately be taking a different teacher this time!

1.0
5.0
MATH7
Nov 19, 2007

Shows no examples. Shows extraneous proofs.

1.0
5.0
MATH22
Nov 23, 2007

smith does not teach like other teachers. i think that he thinks his teaching style is unique and therefore better when in fact it confuses the students

2.0
3.0
MATH2
Nov 24, 2007

this guy is not a very good teacher. he shows no examples and uses to much of his time showing proofs and theorems. He does not know how to manage his time wisely. we end up going over 8 sections in one class meeting. you will not learn much in his class. its pretty much easy but i felt out of place.

2.0
3.0
MATH84
Dec 7, 2007

smiths approach of teaching prealgebra will not help further your math skills into advance alegebra or calculus. too many sections are covered at once which prevent learning and applying to homework assignments. he dodges students questions if it is other than his way of teaching.

2.0
5.0
MATH2
Dec 11, 2007

he is always behind and we didn't cover material this semester that we need for calculus. he is always rushing, which makes the material hard to understand. the homework is ridiculous. each homework takes 2-4 hours and you are responsible for 10-20 a month!!

2.0
4.0
MATH2
Dec 14, 2007

4 tests(53%) + final(40%). Drops lowest test grade. Homework(7%). Extra credit(4% max). Attendance not mandatory. Writes many proofs, which doesn't help. Tests are difficult but curves. Willing to help if asked, but don't expect much. Little to no review of tests and final. If you can't learn the material on your own, then don't take him.

1.0
5.0
MATH2
Feb 8, 2008

Very hard teacher. I worked my butt off and got a C. Even though I am a math major.

5.0
4.0
MATH7
Feb 13, 2008

He is a very very good teacher. His techniques could be quite hard to grab at first but when you get used to it, you'll find out that it only helps you greatly. I got an A in his class and I'm grateful for his teaching style.

5.0
1.0
MATH8
Feb 15, 2008

His teaching mothed is very helpful. He gives a lot of Supplements that you can study. Must do the HW. Ask questions which you don't understand. He glad to answer your questions. Then, you will be fine and get a good grade. He also gives alot of extra credits to do. I got an "A". Take him recommend. Don't care the bad comment sine the guy is lazy.

3.0
3.0
MATH7
Jun 6, 2008

His teaching is just ok. Tests aren't hard if you study the old exam. Helpful to ask any questions but he isn't good at teaching math7 class. I think he should teach math2/math20. Don't recommend him because you will get confuse on the subject and not strong enough for higher level math classes.

5.0
1.0
MATH84
Aug 19, 2008

He is really cool! not just as a teacher but as a person too. He has very good teaching skills. Its very easy to pass his class.

4.0
4.0
MATH2
Nov 17, 2008

Mr. Smith is a really nice guy and very easy to talk to. Study for the tests, show up to class, and ask questions..you'll be fineee. You can tell he cares about his students and he can also make pretty funny jokes

3.0
3.0
MATH02
Dec 6, 2008

Not organized. Always returns test late. Goes through easy info but not hard info. Gives students the impression that he doesn't know about some of the topics he is teaching. He does this by skipping through the ones he doesn't know. Takes too long to figure out how to do certain problems that he assigns.

2.0
4.0
MATH07
Feb 24, 2009

He's a nice person, but he doesn't know how to approach and teach the material. Returns things very late, and not organized. Study his old exams posted online, do all the home work. His test, and only his tests, are base off his old exams. Final was very hard, had a A going into the final, ending up with a B. Overall, he cant teach well.

3.0
3.0
MATH84
Dec 21, 2009

first of all, really fun teacher, 4 test in total, he drops the lowest one, test are also multiple choice and gives extra credit on the test and also if you stay for tutoring after class. the bad thing about him, is that sometimes he seems to have troubles solving his own problems and use alot of extra steps that are not that necessary.

4.0
1.0
MATH2449
May 12, 2010

his class is not hard at all. you just have to be in class and pay attention. He lets you turn in homework you didnt do. Sometimes he curves the test. He did that and i went from a C to B on one of my tests. He also has extra credit after class. Also he try to be funny and thats what make the class entertaining!!

4.0
4.0
MATH84
May 24, 2010

I think Mr. Smith is a great teacher. He gives you the hw up front. There's alot of hw but it's helpful. He breaks down math so well. I really understood the material he was teaching. Take notes and never miss a day. He is quick so pay attention. But he's a great math teacher if you WANT to learn.

3.0
4.0
MATH20
Sep 9, 2010

nice guy.. means well. Doesn't explain course material clearly. Actully makes it a lot harder than it has to be. Mumbles a lot.

5.0
1.0
MATH21
Nov 24, 2010

A great teacher and a great guy, which is why I think it's kinda disrespectful that some people walk out halfway through his class, after he takes roll...oh, well. If you do the homework - which is handed in on exam days - you'll most likely get an A.

3.0
1.0
MATH26
Jun 14, 2011

Cool dude. Math is lame no matter what, but he is your best shot at passing. Just show up and do the homework, and you will be fine. He also teaches some Italian during class.

5.0
3.0
MATH2503
Nov 9, 2011

this class is great for people who have doubts in their math skills. he is very helpful often repeating the steps for those who have a hard time understanding and provides extra credit which can help a lot. the bad thingis that he give a little too much homework, but if you do them all it will be fine. he also drops the lowest grade of an exam.

4.0
3.0
MATH20
Dec 9, 2011

Nice teacher. He's pretty funny and tries to add jokes and different things to make class interesting. Subject was hard but he explains it pretty well and different ways so you can decide which way is easier for you. Goes over material pretty quickly. Make sure to really study for exams because tests can be kind of hard.

5.0
2.0
MATH20
Dec 17, 2011

Good teacher. Just make sure you understand the homework you do and you do all of them. Has extra work after class, do them. Overall, just don't be lazy.

5.0
1.0
MATH8
Dec 21, 2011

Really Kewl dude..Helps a lot and hangsout with students in the classroom doing problems and helping them after the class for 3-4 hours. Easy exams. Do HW, you will be fine. got an A.

5.0
2.0
MATH20
Jan 5, 2012

Great professor. Math is a weak point for me, always struggled, and Mr Smith made it a great experience. If you are stuck or dont get it- ask him. He's really helpful. Do all the homework, it helps you practice. Laugh at his jokes and stay after for extra credit. Super nice, helpful, really cares and is a great explainer, IMHO. Highly recommend.

4.0
3.0
MATH20
May 15, 2012

I've never done well in math, but some of his helpful tricks still apply to calculus and he's always there if you need help!

5.0
5.0
MATH20
Dec 17, 2012

He is very friendly to be around, and he is always there to help his students. However he gives AN INSANE AMOUNT OF HOMEWORK, and the lectures sometimes get tedious to try and listen too. His tests are also very difficult unless you study everything well. Overall hes a pretty good teacher, but he has his moments.

4.0
3.0
MATH18
Dec 20, 2012

Overall he is an ok teacher. He teaches the material and makes sure the students understand. He gives WAY too much hw that only counts for 7% of grade. Funny guy, but wasn't quite engaging.

5.0
3.0
MATH20
Mar 24, 2013

Great teacher, I had to retake this class and passed easily with him. Gives alot of homework, but its due every exam. Drops lowest exam and no quizzes. Makes class interesting and a cool guy.

2.0
4.0
MATH32
Apr 27, 2013

He's hilarious but not a good teacher. He just writes notes directly from the textbook and doesn't explain them at all. Don't take this class if you're not good at math. You basically will have to learn the material by yourself.

2.0
4.0
MATH7
Jan 3, 2014

Most if not all the work was done out of the text book. You basically had to learn it yourself, but it was good to come into class to get a general idea of the section, then review it at home. Just make sure to do the homework, which he gives a lot of.

2.0
5.0
MATH2
Grade: C-
May 11, 2014

very laid back and a nice guy.gives 4 tests and a final. Drops 1 test score. Gives a ridiculous amount of HW . If you have a job or other classes it will take up all free time you have. He rushes through the material and doesnt convey it well. Rarely responds to email If you have alotta familarity with PCal you'll be okay. If not youre screwed.

3.0
2.0
MATH2
Grade: A+
Nov 11, 2014

He gives al lot of homework. You have to spend a lot of time to complete it. But his exam is not that hard and all the exam problems are based on Homework. It is not to get an A if you do all the homework

3.0
4.0
MATH2
Feb 9, 2015

Shane's class is definitely not for the math-faint-at-heart and with the laissez-faire approach of his lectures, at least as I had felt, it was made clear who his target audience was. Constant engineering references made me feel like I was in the wrong class and I was dumbstruck every lecture. Rely on self-teaching needless to say.

3.0
4.0
MATH2
Mar 17, 2015

Smith doesn't mess about. He teaches very quickly. However, he is incredibly smart and informative. Most of the class time is dedicated to proofs and definitions. He offers minimal accumulative extra credit. Has 4 tests (lowest score is dropped) and a final and thats the entire grade. Attend class and do homework, and you should get a B minimum.

2.0
4.0
MATH32
May 21, 2015

Dude math 32 is supposed to be the easiest math class, this guy made it confusing. unorganized at all, copies straight out of the book, but still it's math 32 you can pass it, just don't take him if you have other options

4.0
2.0
MATH7
Grade: Incomplete
Nov 18, 2015

I will take him if i were you. Cons: His lectures are long and confusing. 15 minutes break. You have to study the material yourself. Homework is much more difficult than the real test. Attendance is mandatory. Pros: Easy A if you study hard. Gives extra credit on every meeting. He will be there to help you. Definitely want to take him again!

3.0
2.0
MATH02
Grade: A
Dec 8, 2015

Class is pretty simple. 4 tests and the lower score will be dropped and a cumulative final. lots of homework which is submitted on the day of every test. Gives extra credit questions after every class. Study, do the homework, and attend classes to get an A. He rushes through the material but if you ask him for help he will help you.

1.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: Not sure yet
Jan 3, 2016

Too hard to understand anything and he doesn't really tell you anything you need to know waaaaay too much homework literally suffered throughout the class. I seriously would never take this class again. Need the book to do the hw but can use 5th edition from online for free

4.0
2.0
MATH07
Grade: A
Jan 23, 2016

Professor Smith is one of my most favorite professors at SMC. I don't know there are so many bad reviews out here, he honestly is there to truly help you. If you say he's a hard professor, good luck in the future, because this is nothing compared to future math classes you will take at SMC. All in all, Smith is a boss!

1.0
5.0
MATH07
Feb 1, 2016

Don't take this class if you wanna keep a good GPA. Doesn't teach well. just talks like a robot and solves each problem by himself. No practice in class. You need to study everything by yourself again to maybe understand. Wasted my time completely. I learned from the sub we had for a day more than the entire semester with Shane himself! DO NOT TAKE

5.0
2.0
MATH7
Grade: A
Feb 12, 2016

Great professor! Gives lots of extra credit! Always there for you. Some students sign in and leave after the break. He is humorous and helpful. Tests are similar to the tests he gave in the past semesters. Tests are much more easier than homework. Four tests. The lowest grade of the tests is automatically dropped. Highly recommend!!

5.0
2.0
MATH07
Grade: B+
Feb 15, 2016

His notes are from the book, take a pic of important stuff , just pay attention Read the text book for better understanding cus most of the time u just need a simple formula. His a good Prof though,makes alot of minor mistakes, test are so similar to his prev test which he has online, gives alot of Extra credit, Easy A if u do his Hw and prev test

2.0
4.0
MATH54
Grade: C
May 6, 2016

I took his course last some and it was the worst math class I have every taken. I'm generally good at math, but he made things confusing and I'm lucky I passed.

1.0
5.0
MATH07
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 16, 2016

My only W was this class because of how terrible this guy teaches! He just writes on the board, read what he writes out loud and does the problems himself. Worst teaching method, so what the tests are similar to the old ones if he doesn't teach? Too much homework, there are many better teachers. Smart man, Extremely terrible teacher!!!

5.0
3.0
MATH07
Grade: A
Aug 22, 2016
Would take again

Fairly generous grading system but excessive homework. 4 tests and lowest score is dropped. Adds 2 percent extra credit on final grade for doing a problem assigned at the end of each class and even more is offered on tests. I suggest looking at his past tests, finals, and homework on his faculty page when deciding whether to take his class.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
MATH8
Grade: A
Sep 4, 2016
Would take again

I took this class over the Summer and my only regret was not being able to spend more time with Prof. Shane. His lectures are hilarious and comprehensive--his use of graphics and demonstrations really help convey the content. Expect homework, challenging exams, a lot of extra credit and a lot of jokes--when it comes to puns, he's quite the pundit.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Hilarious
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
3.0
MATH7
Grade: B
Dec 1, 2016
Wouldn't take again

The exam was easy but the final was hard. I got all the exam good grades but I did not expect the final to be so hard. And his explanation is not good. He just wrote everything on the board. Be careful to choose this professor.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
4.0
3.0
MATH2
Grade: B
Feb 4, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Smith's lectures are not the worst, not the best. He does an intro to each chapter, proofs and problems what will be on the homework. His tests are easy; mostly multiple choice with some written questions. There are four tests (one is drop able) and a final. Although, there is soooo much homework! Luckily he gives a lot of extra credit

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
MATH07
Jun 4, 2017
Would take again

He stays after class and hosts what he likes to call math parties (aka he assigns extra credit that you can do in groups). His exams became a bit harder after switching to a different book (Stewart) this semester but the old Swokowski exams that he posts online are still good reviewers. Maybe not an easy A but a B should be fairly easy to achieve.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
MATH02
Feb 8, 2018
Would take again

He cares about his students a lot and does whatever he can to help. Good lectures, however he assigns a lot of homework. BUT he gives a lot of extra credit and curves the exams.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Caring
4.0
1.0
MATH02
Grade: A+
Mar 23, 2018
Would take again

professor smith docent teach well in the class and the lectures are no great but his exams are so easy and so similar to the questions that he solves in the class and last year exams. home work is a lot but all other math 2 classes are same. In general its not that hard to get A.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
4.0
MATH20
Grade: A
Aug 30, 2018
Would take again

Do the EXTRA CREDIT and the HW you will get an A

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Hilarious
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
4.0
MATH2
Oct 28, 2018
Would take again

He will do everything to help you pass, he truly cares. Do all the extra credit! there is a TON of hw so dont take him if you dont have time. It is a hard class is general but he gives everyone a chance. He posts old test to help study which is SUPERRRRR HELPFUL. i would take him again

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
MATH07
Grade: A
Jan 4, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I took this class with already having background knowledge of calc 1 and it was a little difficult. His grading policy is ridiculous because multiple choice is worth the same as short answer so if you get one wrong you're already at a B on the test. He does post old test which are extremely helpful. He isn't the worst but he isn't the best. Grind

Lots of homework
Graded by few things
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
3.0
MATH07
Grade: B
Jan 9, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I took AP Calculus in my high school but I got 4 in the sap exam, so I took the Calculus I with this professor. NEVER took again, his multiple choice worth same points with the short answer and if you got one multiple choice wrong, you will get a B. And he always talked with himself during his lecture. Please believe me, DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS!!!!!!

Tough grader
3.0
3.0
MATH8
Jul 7, 2020
Would take again

An okay professor. Unorganized and takes forever responding to emails and grading. But he's a really nice person, wants you to understand and succeed, and gives daily extra credit. Homework is 8%. 4 tests plus cumulative final. His tests have a few multiple choice problems, and there's no partial credit for those.

Test heavy
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
MATH07
Grade: Incomplete
Apr 26, 2021
Would take again

Take this professor only if you are sure you know about calc1 from high school. The prof is not a good explainer very unprepared and always goes on tangents about his life Good thing is: do the homework and 1 or 2 previouses and you are most likely getting an A His exams are fair, but he has mistakes in each and everyone I took corrects them midway

Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
MATH7
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 26, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Grade is based on homework, 4 exams and the final. Drops lowest exam. Exams are fair but have errors. Tons of homework. Gives extra credit. Nice guy but gets really frustrated under pressure. Does not end class on time. Messy & kinda all over the place. You WILL feel lost most of the time. Be prepared to teach yourself. Youtube is your best friend.

Graded by few things
Lots of homework
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
2.0
MATH8
Jun 25, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I took integral calculus in HS over a decade ago, and needed a refresher - unfortunately, Mr Smith didn't spend time presenting the material and instead focused on trying to complete textbook exercises. Often he would make errors and resort to looking up the answer on Slader. Sprinkled in were a couple weird unprovoked tangents about gun rights.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
MATH54
Grade: C+
Nov 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

There's a 50% chance that he was assigned my class when he was underprepared. The exams WILL NOT be accurate. My class had to correct HIM multiple times when a mult. choice question did not include the correct answer. Lectures can go on for what feels like hours, and he will continue teaching well after class ends. Replay classes and teach yourself

Lots of homework
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
MATH54
Grade: D+
Oct 18, 2022

This class is really a joke, you barely understand what's going on in class. He doesn't have any notes prepared or slides to show to the class so people can write them down and he always goes off topic or has to make a joke in class. If you take his class I can guarantee that you will not pass

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
MATH18
Grade: B
Mar 31, 2023

If I didn't take Calculus prior to this class, I would've not been able to complete any assignments. He never even gave us back our final exams. He also gave up on grading. Everyone in the class received a B. Students who did extra credit and got As on every exam received the same grade as those who didn't.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
MATH28
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 9, 2023

There is an outrageous amount of homework assigned, and he adds material up until the last second for the test. He poorly rushed/taught the last chapter the week leading up to the final, which led to mass confusion amongst students on the final as well as it was very difficult. I believe the majority of students were failing going into the final.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MATH07
Grade: A
Aug 22, 2023
Would take again

Highly recommend taking his class. Don't know why there are so many bad reviews here, he's truly caring and wants you to succeed.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
MATH07
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 13, 2023
Would take again

Lectures with this professor are always fun and engaging! He always encourages questions to make sure everyone understood the material. And has a lot of extra credit opportunities!

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
Caring
5.0
3.0
MATH28
Grade: A+
Aug 1, 2024
Would take again

I took his class spring 2024 and was great. He is always there to help students. If you stay for office hours he will be a little more flexible because he will see you are trying. Lectures go fast sometimes but somehow he makes sense. He is always open to receive feedback from students to make his class better. Super friendly, caring and fun

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
1.0
3.0
MATH07
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 10, 2024

DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR!!!!! absolutely should not be teaching at college level. Makes a ton of mistake in lecture student are constantly having to fix his errors and also make mistakes on tests. Has extra credit but it isn't even helpful. Starts teaching stuff and then says that its not on the exam. His explanation(bad) better to teach yourself

Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
MATH07
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 6, 2024

Every class period he just runs through practice problems but DOES NOT ACTUALLY TEACH. You have to teach everything yourself and he is an extremely tough grader. Me and three other friends all had to drop his class and we were studying hours every day. Nice guy but horrible teacher and cannot explain tough concepts for students to save his life.

Tough grader
3.0
4.0
MATH07
Grade: B+
Jan 4, 2025
Would take again

He's a fun guy with jokes that most of the time don't land. His tests are on the easier side because he'll make mistakes on them, so practice old tests if you want a good grade. Half the class will probably drop on the first midterm but if you tough it out, you'll probably get a good grade

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH07
Grade: B-
Apr 22, 2025

Amazing person! Unfortunately, he did not teach. He runs through practice problems and does not go through them before the class, so he makes mistakes, which confuses the class. If you already know math well, you will enjoy his class; if you do not know math well and want to learn, expect to teach yourself. #goodluckhavefun

4.0
3.0
MATH28
Grade: B+
Jul 8, 2025
Would take again

He gives lots of extra credit opportunities which is great! His practice exams match his actual exams for the first 2 exams. If you take the practice exams enough you'll do well on his actual exams.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
1.0
5.0
MATH07
Grade: F
Dec 31, 2025

Was an honors math student at a t20 feeding hs and never struggled in math until now. “Lectures” are solving textbook problems with countless mistakes, tests aren't curved, more than half of students end up failing or dropping, time wasted on tangents and jokes that aren't funny. Straight As this semester besides this class.

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH07
Grade: A+
Dec 31, 2025

Jason Wang is basically the Herbert the Perrvert of SMC, he likes Young Asian Boys. Shane Smith is the Quagmire of SMC, he likes Young Asian Girls

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

68%

Textbook Required

50%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 27 grades
Most common grades:
A (9)
B (5)
Not sure yet (5)
Grade Distribution
A(13)B(6)C(3)D(3)F(1)A-/B+(3)
Based on 38 reported grades
A: 9
B: 5
Not sure yet: 5
A+: 4
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (16)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (9)
Lots of homework (8)
Graded by few things (8)
Caring (6)
Tough grader (5)
Hilarious (3)
Test heavy (3)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.44 avg change
Oct
Nov
Jan
Apr
Jul
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MATH2503

5.0

(1)

MATH8

4.2

(6)

MATHS7

4.0

(1)

MATH21FINITE

4.0

(1)

MATH8SUMMER

4.0

(1)
+19 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ALG3200

5.0

MATH4344

5.0

MATH120

5.0

MATH54

4.3

MATH

4.0

Similar Professors