REALLY good teacher! really funny, great sense of humor, easy to understand

Don't buy the book before the first class meeting.

one of the most intelligent, *together*, professors i've ever had the pleasure to take. an amazing teacher.

Very good teacher. Interesting lectures. I would recomend Astro. 5 for anyone who is interested in astronomy but not a science major.

Easy class. Funny adorable professor. Very nice and friendly. Highly Recommend.

hes ok but pretty borring im my opinion....i always fell asleep...but very informative....

good teacher, but borring...and he thinks he is funny, also has an accent, also dont buy the book you will never even open it....

Very thorough, easy to follow. Notes posted online before tests. Book unnecessary, lectures informative. Easy A!! Cute accent and always talks about beer. Highly recommended!

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Best teacher ever all you have to do is make flash cards from the notes he posts online before the test you dont even have to show for class easy A very funny down to earth teacher his writting assignments are a joke extra credit is kindergarden work

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good teacher

He is very kind, intelligent, interesting, and helpful for your study. His British accent is making him cute.

He is a good teacher, he wants you to pass his class. He have extra credit assignments that are so easy and they will boost your grade. Take him.

DO not buy the book, everything in lecture is all you need for the exam. He curves very far and going to class is usually 10% of your grade. He writes clear notes on the board and gives practice tests befor exams. TAKE THIS CLASS

great teacher! very interesting class, he lit my passion for astronomy. adorable accent, and his random comments amused the heck out of me. i would definitely take the class all over again just for the fun of it.

This is one of the best teachers at SMC. You have to go to class, just listen and take notes. He is very helpful and understands his students. I absolutely love him, I wish every teacher was like him. Study and you will get an A.

Don't buy the book. Study all the lecture notes and you'll be ok. He's pretty chill and kind of funny, in a dorky way.

Simon is awesome. Don't buy the book, just take the notes. He's cool cuz he also puts the lectures for you online. Keeps up with attendance and offers extra credit. Smart man who knows his stuff and responds well to students. Great professor :)

cute accent! funny guy. his notes are very clear. write everything he writes on the board and study that. dont buy the text.

Balm is by far the best astronomy teacher at SMC and I would highly recommend him. He makes astronomy fun. His tests are very easy if you study class notes. Lectures are interesting. Take him!

AMAZING TEACHER!!!! The best teacher at SMC. There's only 3 tests,including the final, and 6 quizzes that are super easy. And the final isn't even cumulatative! Everything on the quizezes and tests are from his notes, so don't buy the book! He even offers extra credit... easy class!!!

Good teacher. Don't buy the book. =)

Professor Balm is wonderful.He knows what he teaches and you can see that he also enjoys it. The lectures are easy to understand because he applies very clear concepts. The quizes help a lot too.Book is not needed it. Take notes and get the summaries. The teacher makes you enjoy the subject!!

If you write down what is on the board then you don't need to buy the book. He Likes to give a pop quiz every couple weeks. Just pay attn to his lectures and you should be fine.

balm is such an incredible human being, so sweet and so funny that even if astronomy isn't your interest, the class will definetly grow on you. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Lectures can be dense sometimes, but his cute mug and sense of humor help you get through it. STUDY ONLINE NOTES FOR TESTS = AN A!!!!

very good professor. very clear and easy lectures and exams. don't buy textbook

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he is so passionate about his subject matter that I was charged to go to school each day!

omg, balm is one of the nicest people i have ever known. astro can be a tricky thing, but if you take him, come to class, and read the online notes, guaranteed an A. HIGHLY HIGHLY recomended. loved his class a lot, and you will too!

INCREDIBLY INSPIRING TEACHER! His passion for the subject matter is entirely contagious and I Love to go to his class. His lecture and online notes are so through that a textbook is unnecessary. He allows ample time for questions and is funny as well as engaging. The best teacher I have ever had

he is the best god bless him

He is the best and cutest astronomy teacher at SMC! He makes the class very interesting and is so passionate and enthusiatic about the subject it's infectious! Take him, ask questions, go to his office hours. He's so helpful, understanding and wants everyone to understand and enjoy astronomy!

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One of my new favorite teachers at SMC, he makes Astro fun, is very open to questions, helps you out if you need it, tests are curved, and he's from london (i mean how cool is that), spent some time down at the south pole, he also knows his Astro, IT IS A CRIME NOT TO TAKE HIS CLASS

First off in responce to the previous post, Simon is not a stupid british guy, he's possibly one of the coolest teachers i have ever met, he is a very smart man, and knowledgable about Astro. The random stories he tells you are just great, grades on a curve, easy B, and if you stay awake easy A

I have learned some geology, chemistry & physics, on top of astronomy! This class is interesting by itself but Balm makes it extraordinary! I took this class after taking his 1B because he ignited my fascination! He is fair, invested in the success of his students, FUNNY AS HELL, prompt, & clear on his expectations. Difficult tests; great class!

Really smart and a funny guy. Straight out of a movie with his English accent, scruffy hair, and plaid shirts. This guy is rad! He makes a difficult class understandable and enjoyable. You know you've got a good professor when you're interested in comign to class every day. Take this guy's class, he'll rock your socks right off.

This guy is awesome! I enjoyed coming to his class, he was such a relief after ms. Allens class. This is the best teacher here at SMC and he is smart as hell. He even took us back to the planetarium on the last day of class, when he could have left early. If you want to learn astro, take this class. If I was gay, I would seriously do him.

You don't need to buy the book. Just print out the notes he has online and take them to class. There are six quizzes, two midterms, and a final. He does take off points for attendance though.

Balm is the cutest nicest guy in the universe. astro 1a is a bit difficult, but if you STUDY THE ONLINE notes, and attend his classes you will do fine. Study class notes AND online notes for tests if you want an A. YOU WILL REGRET IT IF YOU DONT TAKE HIM. a totally great human being!

GREAT class! He's funny, nice, and interesting. He is so passionate about it, and I think the class really sparks an interest in most students. The tests aren't easy A's, but overall there isn't much work to do. Highly recommended- you'll love it!

This teacher is very good...I HATE science with a passion and somehow I managed to pass this class! Take him and I promise you won't be sorry...you don't even need the book!!!

the best teacher i ever had in my life.

very funny! knows his stuff and teaches well. british accent took class to planeterium on campus! very approacable, wants to help

I was excited to take astro5 due to the ratings and the way the class was described (alien life & ufos), and was disappointed. Simon himself is awesome, funny, helpful. You dont have to buy the book, & he gives you the notes- but the tests were very hard, even after hours of studying, and the info taught was biology and chem. not wat i signed up 4.

He's got the perfect rating already, but why not give him more credit? Fun, sweet, funny, Brittish, smart...I might take one more of his classes just for fun, even though I think astronomy is pretty boring. Study for the tests and take good notes. Tests are pretty hard.

funny guy, chill, very helpul, highly recommended

Funny teacher, laid back. has pop quizzes and attendence counts.

Greatest teacher alive! You cannot leave SMC before taking one of his classes. I don't care much 4 the subject but he's got EVERYONE's attention and interested. He is so funny you have no idea! He's so considerate of the fact that the books are ridiculously expensive and he makes things easy for you, all the while you're learning! He's just so frea

Simon is the coolest. I still DONT CARE ABOUT THE UNIVERSE but he really tried to make it intresting at 8am. he realtes the material to current things and people. he is so adorable its hard not to pay attention. I will probally take mopre classes with him. The test are strait forward and he puts all the notes online. TAKE HIM!

Simon defines excellence in teaching: web site contains class notes and detailed grade info, lectures are enthralling, tests are challenging (but he gives the necessary resources), & his experience lends credibility and depth to the material he teaches. He's charming, interesting, funny, brilliant, passionate, well-informed, & adorable to boot.

Simon is hilarious, if you have a chance, take him, class isnt hard, notes online is whats on the tests,he's an awesome teacher and loves beer, what more could you ask for?!

As mentioned below Balm IS the MAN! Ever so nice, sweet, and a total cutie! Don't buy book, show up to class, be respectful and all will be FINE! He's not a push over but will work w/ his students to help them succeed. A MUST take!

The****, Simon is the Man, Goto Class and Youll Be Fine, He Curves Tests(ALOT!), Notes Are Online, Offers Bonus, Dont Have To Buy Book, Goto Class and you Will Do Fine,-Plus He is a Funny British Dude

This was the 2nd class I took w/ Simon & once again I wasnt let down. Hes totally cool, knowledgeable on the subject, into it, & answers all questions. He cracks jokes, some funny, some not, but @ least he tries, & it def keeps u awake. He has a solid resume 2, researched at the south pole 4 a year & taught @ ucla. The brit accent tops it all off!

Simon rocks!! He's easy, notes online, extra credit, no HW, geeky-funny AND a hot accent!! ;) Definetly a great teacher...and he knows his stuff!

made me enjoy going to a boring class

He is a GREAT teacher. Yu should take his class because he makes the class fun because he lves what he talks about. If you want a teacher who knows how to joke around and is EASY, this is your guy!

Take him!.hes one of my favorite teachers at SMC. hes funny and makes class fun. he has a cute british accent. dont buy the book, you dont need it! just take notes. easy A

the man likes beer! he is the cutest man ever. british accent, a great sense of humor, & nice! what more could you ask for?! But seriously, his class wasn't super easy so don't expect to never go to class & pass. But if you take good notes and study just a bit, you'll do fine. Offers tons of e.c, so you have plenty of chances to get that grade up!

So easy. I wrote the final paper on how I would like to take bong rips with extraterestrials... AND GOT AN A!

Simon is the man! Astronomy can be a difficult subject but he makes it interesting and clear. British guy with a huge sense of humour! During 6-week semesters you take 3 scantron tests, 10% for attendance (yes!!) and up to 4% extra credit! Just show up in classes, take good notes and you get A's on exams. He understands students!! Great prof!

A wonderful surprise. He made a rather difficult subject fun and humorous. Great personality, and as a bonus, a cute accent. It helps pass the time. Just make sure someone is willing to answer one of his questions or you run the chance of him calling on "Mickey Mouse." Yes, seriously.

Simon is such a nice and cute man. he puts all the notes online so that you dont have to purchase the book. he is very smart and knowledgable. his exams come straight from lectures and they are very easy. he also curves them a lot. the curve cannot hurt your grade. highly recommended

I've taken Astronomy 1A and 5 with Simon and plan to take his Chemistry class too. His tests are not easy, infact, they are pretty hard. He grades on a curve, which without it, most people would be getting C's in the class. But, he makes the material very enjoyable. He is overflowing with personality. Take his class, but if you want an A, study.

Great class. Simple really. Regardless of his fantastic teaching style, it was a hard class nonetheless. Some may disagree with me; however, I got an "A," only with lots of studying, and extra credit. Do not expect to waltz in the class room, not learn and do well. If one studies, the things (s)he will learn are incredible! Great class!

Dedicated, funny, understanding, and very helpful! He not only sees you as another number, but as a human being and understands that life happens. He is awesome!

I love Simon! I have to say he is w/ out a doubt my fav professor at SMC so far. I am not a big science person and I loved his class so much that I am hoping to take his Astron 5 class next semster. He offers alot of extra credit options and has online practice tests and lecture notes. He is so funny, you have to take a class with him!

Simon is dedicated, caring, reasonable & fair; always respectful to students. If you've never had chem, it is a pretty tough course. If you have, you’ll likely be fine, but it is still work. He was new to Chem 10, so there were a few tiny glitches, but I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HIM. It was an honor to take a course with a professor of his caliber.

Cool teacher that makes the class very fun and tell a lot of personal stories but tends to make exams a little bit harder. Questions are complicated and not straight out. Critical thinking needed. Extra Credit that helps a lot and easy to do.

simon ha! what should I say about simon, first of all he is really cute and his english accent makes him even more sx*$@r. his method of teaching is really clear and helpful. his test were kinda hard b/c it was the first time he was teaching chem but he wa svery understang with our grading, bottom line he is the greatest, we love u simon,

Simon is the dopest professor @ SMC!! I actually learned something, and he is really funny, very helpful, and approachable.

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He's really nice and funny guy. I did enjoy his chem10 class. I also like Chemistry subjects.. but then his humorous lecture and clear concepts with powerpoint material were really helpful. Midterms and quiz are not easy (like B/C) that much but if you work on lab and final exam harder and do your best, you'll get an A.

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I LOVE this guy. He's hot, his accent is hot, and he's really hilarious. Even when he's about to tell a joke and you think it's going to suck he makes it really funny. Astronomy itself is extremely boring and difficult, however. I suggest studying long and hard for the tests.

This guy is amazing! I never was a science person but he made me like science. He's a wonderful person with lots of jokes. Plus he's a great looking fella and his english accent makes the plus. Simon here's another chili pepper for ya. Best of luck take his class - you won't regret it.

Great teacher! Helps you if you ask him a question. If you have never taken a chemistry class before, take it with him because he prepares you for chem 11. He is the most funniest professor I've had at SMC.

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he is really good teacher, he gives us powerpoint instead of notes!! saving our time on taking notes!! and he gives us grade curve!!!!

he was really great throuhout the semester but very disapointing in the final class grade. if you got 88.8% he would still give u a "b" etc...

Simon's infectious enthusiasm fueled by corny jokes mostly involving beer helped to invigorate some rather abstract material; however, if you aren't comfortable with abstractions, this class will be hard. Grading: attendance, 3 exams & 6 quizzes (multiple choice). All powerpoints posted online & Simon encourages students to print them for class.

Balm is adorable. Astro 1A is fun. He's got a fabulously British sense of humor. The subject isn't all that difficult, but it is a lot of information. Going into the Planetarium is really awesome, DON'T MISS THAT CLASS. He has funny little slideshows and everything. Take advantage of his website, it's there for your use! Highly Recommended.

Simon is a fun guy who keeps the class entertaining. No need to buy the book, you watch his powerpoints in class and then you can print them off of his website at home, so no note taking either. It's an easy class for a non science major and the one paper you write is ridiculous (mine was five pages of stoner nonsense and I got 100%).

best teacher at smc! very proud of his chili pepper. simon is hilarious and half of the time lets class out early because he can't stop laughing at his own jokes. very endearing personality, easy to absorb material and very clearly presented, but if you never show up to class or don't take notes, you might not do well. treats students like friends.

Instead of dealing the hard class like Fouts, take this guy for a more fun and calm experience. The class isnt that hard. I got a D with Fouts and a B with Balm cuz of the opportunity he gives us. He curves, gives extra credit, and overall is a great professor. He loves what hes doing, and anyone who says he sucks is a hater. MUST TAKE!

Simon is sooooooooo.....funny & he can't stop from laughing his own joke. book is not necessary, he makes powerpoint and that is increadibly helpful and straight forward. because he curves the tests, and if u get 89.01 it means an "A". there's only one paper and u can handle it solely by ur imagination. Awesome professor! The BEST in SMC!!!!

Best teacher at SMC!!! Not to mention he is hot with a cute Britsh accent. Looked forward to going to every class. You still have to study because his tests are kind of hard but you learn a lot.Take him and you will not regret it.

really good teacher. weekly quizzes but he prepares you well and he gives you powerpoint notes so its not hard at all.

He's greatest!!!!Even through I am ESL student...

Simon is great. Cares about the students. Offers extra credit and curves tests, so there is no excuse to do poorly in his class. If you do, then you're LAZY! Tests are challenging, but manageable with with curve. Quizzes suck, but if you do good everywhere else they won't matter as much. Attendance is checked, so do go to class.

What can one say about Sir Simon Balm....He is probably the best professor at SMC....Simon is smart, very clear,caring and very understandable when it comes to Chemistry....I thought I was doomed going into Chem 10...but I ended up with a B..Anyone takeing Chem 10...Take SIMON!!! Best Prof...Thanks for everything...Cheers mate!

He'll prepare you for Chem 11 because of the depth of his material. Powerpoints are available online, or he'll burn you a copy, so you don't have to take notes. Tests are straightforward. Very funny guy, who enjoys teaching. I'd take him in a heartbeat if he was teaching more advanced chem classes (he's an astronomy prof who teaches chem).

Great professor. Funny, clear, interesting, awesome guy overall. Quiz questions on test. Pay attention and take notes and you'll do fine, the paper was completely creative so no matter what you wrote, you got full credit as long as you adressed each question.

Amazing teacher! Very clear, super organized, great personnality, open-minded and funny. Very inspiring. He is a real gem, a true star!!

If you are not a math or scien major, but want/need to take a science class, take Balm. He is very nice and his lectures are not boring. He also is willing to help you with any questions.. He is funny and very endearing

What an excellent teacher! Simon is awesome. His teaching is very clear and understandable. Chemistry is "no joke" but he tried to be funny in his own goofy way so that the class would seem less dificult. Pay attention, get ready for the quizzes, tests and do all the extra credits offer. And I guarantee you will pass the class with a flying color.

I took Professor Balm for Astronomy 1 & 5. What a great teacher. He really sparked my interest in the sciences all over again. Always willing to indulge students. Fairly easy class if you show up and pay attention, but an EXTREMLY interesting class! I'm trying to take the Chem 10 class he offers next.

I think that Professor Balm is a really good teacher and that everybody who takes his class should pass his class....

Simon is a great lil' brit! His lecures can be boring, but let's face it... CHEM IS BORING! But he tries to make it LESS boring. He is great and he makes science fun to follow along with no matter how horrible the subject is. A great guy and sexy in his own way...

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This guy is awesome. Funniest professor ever. He grades on a scale so if u try hard, it is very easy to get an A. You could get Cs on his tests and still get an A in the class because of his curve. However, his test are very hard. Extra credit makes up for it, however. DEFINATELY recommend. If you are not sure, then TAKE IT!

Nearly 3 years passed, and I still think about Simon. He is extremely active in Astronomy as well as his students academic wellbeing. I would stay after class and ask him the silliest of all questions to which he would answer without a smirk. You already know you want to take his class. You would be missing out if you didn't, trust all of us!

Prof Balm is nice but the class is very hard. There is a lot of studying involved and his tests are not straightforward. He does curve and gives extra credit, but be ready for the tough challenge. there are also six quizzes and time consuming crossword puzzle hw's. If your motivated to spend lots of hrs studying, take him!

You don't need the book b/c he has slides online instead. I think he was great. He was very funny and he's British! You do have to study and he has crosswords as homework. He curves his tests by A LOT! Overall I felt I learned a lot and it was easier than I thought.

This class is awesome and very chill. I took him Summer 07, he doesnt assign any HW except for a paper that was really really really easy. Great class to take for just credits. Im taking him again for Chem

Brilliant, hilarious, and absolutely fascinating! One of the best teachers i ever had at SMC...

amazing teacher. helpful and too the point. DO NOT BUY THE BOOK..if you have a comp. just download the powerpoints. homework is easy and tests while sorta hard can be aced with a little studying. if you didnt do well in his class its your own fault. take him for the good grade,fun class and to learn a little about astronomy..dirty snowballs....

Very nice, super funny, most crush-worthy and cute professor at SMC! Class isn't that easy, especially if you're just taking it to fill an IGETC requirement like me...I have to spend a lot of time studying and going over the powerpoint and the book, but I'm pulling an A so far. Prof. Balm grades on a curve, so that helps. Good sense of humor!

Simon is one of the clearest professors in SMC. Don't buy textbook for his class, he has his own power point text available online for student to print out. Chem 10 is not a hard class, but requires lots of work. Once you get the work done, you are in good shape. I had a 'C' on my final, but still received an "A" as a final course grade.

I've taken Simon for Astro1, Astro5 & now Chem10. He's the best professor I've had throughout my college experience thus far. The Astro classes were a breeze, Chem10 was significantly more work. If you do the work and make an effort to understand what he's teaching, you should be just fine. If you want to really *learn*, the class is a must.

best chem professor! very helpful, makes chemistry fun but still gets you ready for chem 11, teaches what you need to learn from chem 10. he knows his stuff!

He's a GREAT teacher.. take him! And he is soo nice and kind. There are some qiuzzes though we had 7 throught the semester.

He's a GREAT teacher.. take him! And he is soo nice and kind. There are some qiuzzes though we had 7 throught the semester.

Definitely one of the best teachers at SMC. Has notes online so you don't need to buy the bok. And an added bonus is that he is cute with an awesome british accent.You will really regret it if you don't take his class.

My favorite teacher ever. Extremely hard subject for me. Not a push over but the most reasonable and cooperative teacher that I've ever had. Work hard and do all the work and you will get a reasonable grade.

He has a humor to him. One of the most inspring teachers I have ever taken. I enjoyed going to his class. I recommend you take him. He is extremely helpful and will always be there to help out

SIMON! very very cute teacher, tells endless jokes and funny stories. Very laid back. make chem very possible~~

Professor Balm is one of the kindest and most helpful teachers I have ever had. He gladly answers all of your questions and never makes anyone feel dumb for asking them, but still manages to cover a lot of information. His class was also pretty easy, just take good notes and refer to the powerpoints on his website before the tests. TAKE HIM!

Simon is an awesome professor. He is caring and is willing to help his students. Made me laugh in class all the time. Chemistry is so easy now. Thanks Simon you're the BEST!

Simon is a great teacher but the class itself is difficult and not an easy A. He grades off a curve which is nice, but you must still work very hard and do a lot of extra credit to score an A in the course. Take the class only if you are very interested in Life In the Universe.

I got 2 Bs and 2Cs from exams of his class, but i ended up getting an A as the course grade because he offered a lot of extra credit, and he was generous at grading lab reports. His lecture is really helpful and clear. If you dont sleep at his class, you will become so good at chemistry !

When I went into this class, I believed this was going to be about aliens. no way! it was about physics and biology, very confusing material at times. The teacher is great and he always is available to help and grades on a curve which basically helped me get a good grade after flunking some quizzes and turning in extra credit. very hard class.

Simon is CUTE! An absolute cutie pie! I loved his class. I could have gotten a better grade (that was my fault) but it was still by far the best class I've had at SMC. He's laid back and he lets students call him by his first name. I had an interest in Astronomy before but now I am hooked and I can't wait to take his class again.

The below comment about his Chem 12 class is from a group of students that dont want to put the work in. If you get a "C" in this class, your an idiot. Yes it is challenging, but it is Chem 12, not simple chemistry. I say take him. He's brilliant, patient and will work with you if you dont understand a problem.

Best chem 12 teacher ever. Drops lowest test, is not a scrict grader when it comes to labs and really tries his best to be fair. Take him!

Probably one of the most entertaining professors you'll ever have, somehow makes Chemistry, a notoriously boring subject, fun! He's also extremely fair and although his exams are difficult(this is Chem12, after all) he gives you enough opportunities to get a better grade. Anyone who has something negative to say about him needs their head examined

He?s an extremely compassionate person whom I admire to the greatest extent. Take him, great class, filled w/ positive energy. He'll change your perspective on life. In the midst of studying, you?ll laugh & learn. Make sure to pay attention during lectures, be on time, & listen to the wonderful things he has to say, then you?ll have a decent A.

Funny guy, if you take him for chem you'll learn a good amount and he's not boring like some other chem teachers can be. He's relatively easy too, but study for the tests definitely

One of the best professors at SMC... Yes he makes one too many fart jokes occasionally but be happy he has a sense of humor... Treats the students as adults, very laid-back... If you do poorly in this class, it's because you're not interested in astronomy. Simon's very intelligent and a great teacher.

He makes a lot of lewd jokes and admits he can be lewd. Sometimes its funny while other times it kind of gets old. But he is very passionate and knowledgeable about teaching. His tests are pretty tough and you have to study. I got an 88 on the 1st test then got cocky and got 78 on the next. Studying is mandatory.

Simon is a cool Prof. Took him last semester and forgot to leave this. He is cool with his students, class is challenging (tests are hard), material is pretty cool. Laid back personality, fun class. You should take him if you are majoring in science you will learn alot.

BEST chem 12 teacher at SMC. Very generous when grading labs, gives out extra credit, will drop the lowest test score..and did I mention that he curves every test and the final? Great class and easy A.

Best Chem 12 teacher at SMC. Very chill and fair. He wants all of his students to succeed. Drops the lowest test, curves every test, generous lab grader, gives extra credit. Everyone can do well in this class!

He's ok, he knows whats he talkin about in class but he doesnt know that much about the class! he passes the stuff he doesnt know but still he's a good teacher and fair! he could be better if he uses his mind more and stop drinking before class

Awesome professor with limitless knowledge. Really tries to make the class fun, doesn't care what his students do as it is up to them to want to learn. Tests are difficult but not if you study. Overall, a really good professor and class.

He is a great professor and funny too. He tries to make the class fun. He also curves the test and drops the lowest one he also gives extra credit his really a nice guy. you'll enjoy his class. I know that he also teaches Chemistry and I would take it with him.

He is a great professor and funny too. He tries to make the class fun. He also curves the test and drops the lowest one he also gives extra credit his really a nice guy. You'll enjoy his class. He also teaches Chemistry and I would definitely take it with him.

If you dont take him your missing out. He is such a good teacher, sexy british accent and so easy on the eyes ladies! :) However, I hear he has a ridiculously gorgeous girlfriend so too bad for us! Loved his class tho and highly recommend Simon!

Great proffesor, you will love him, helpful and nice. Helps you out in all ways he can, very funny too. Gives extra credit and exams are multiple choice. Be prepared to do your work as in any science class though. Overall he is amazing

Such a great professor. Really nice guy, a must take for the physical science IGETC requirement. Curves test scores, no book needed and attendance is mandatory. Fun class!

Prof. Balm is ceaselessly entertaining but dedicated to ensuring that his class is not watered-down for SMC. Just because there is no textbook required doesn't mean his class is a cakewalk. Be prepared to dedicate time to studying the powerpoints he provides online because his tests (based on the curves) are very difficult for most students. :)

AMAZING INDIVIDUAL he is by far the best teacher I have had in SMC, down to earth, funny and extremely knowledgeable,

One of the funniest teachers I have had. Makes the class fun. Good teacher. No book. if you look over the lectures from class that he posts online to study for the test you will do well on the tests. Take him!

one of the best teachers i have ever had. he really knows what he is talking about and is sooo funny. TAKE HIM

Professor Balm makes Astronomy so interesting! There is a lot of information to remember, but it isn't hard to get an A if you pay attention and have good attendance. Make sure to take notes, he often puts things on the exams that he verbally mentions in class, but aren't on the powerpoints.

tough professor but its chemistry, arguably one of the hardest subjects in college. work hard, read book. the extra credit is vital to getting a good grade.

Average teacher. Extremely hard tests but since people do so bad, he curves the tests. Best to avoid taking chemistry at Santa Monica College because it is diffcult to get good grade with any of the professors.

I can't believe he has a lover! (s)he must be extremely lucky! ...I can only dream. He must reproduce, his genes are too valuable! Anyways, take astro with him and your life will change you'll never think of the universe the same way again. it's a frightening, but enlightening experience. you'll learn and have fun doing so. He is just phenomenal.

Professor Balm is a funny, relaxed, engaging teacher. He is very welcoming, and has a great sense of humor. The material he teaches is not easy, and unfortunately it is all science linked, in a non-science class. Balm does a great job explaining theories in a fun manner that really sticks. Attend class, print the power points, and STUDY. curved.

Wonderful class! This Brit's wit will keep you interested when the material doesn't. A hard class for the summer~ Life in the Universe in 6 weeks?!!? Phew!

I love him..Hes cool but he tests are super hard.He is funny.:)

He's a very good teacher, very funny and he curves everything to make it fair. I only wish he didn't so many Uranus jokes.

Amazing teacher. Very interesting class. Learned so much. Gotta listen to his lectures and read slides to get good grade, which isn't even hard to do. His way of teaching is just very refreshing compared to many dull teachers who read from the book.

This professor rocks! by all means, the most refreshable professor I have ever met in SMC. His teaching methods not only make you study better but easier and much more interesting. Astro5 class in general is great. If you thinking of taking an elective - take Astro5 with him, you will be amazed how much info you'll learn in one semester, guaranteed

Fascinating material. You do not need to be into science fiction to appreciate this course. Attendance is mandatory. Notes are not necessary, since all PowerPoints are online. Keys to success: show up and look over the PowerPoints three or four times before each test. Three tests in total are graded on a curve. A professor of the highest quality.

he is the best best best best teacher in SMC i have dont have enuf gud words to say abt him ! i took him just this semester and he made everything easy . i have to really urgent go somehwere and he still gave me credit for the attendence even though i didnt attent that class. he is wonderful . you will be lucky if u get to enroll in his class !

the BEST astronomy teacher at SMC. if you are going to take astronomy, have him as your teacher. He is beyond hilarious, making each class more then enjoyable. He makes the astronomy so interesting as well. Just study his notes and have good attendance. He is so helpful and nice.

he is an AMAZING teacher. I really wish i tried harder in his class. But even though he didn't see me trying that hard, he helped me pass his class. HE IS SO FUNNY. not one class is boring. if you are going to take astronomy, you HAVE to have him as your teacher. BEST CLASS i have had so far. he is so helpful and he makes it fun

Prof. Balm is one of the greatest teachers around. He made astronomy fun and easy! Science is not my thing but I got an A :) Attendance is mandatory, 3 exams (which he curves VERY GENEROUSLY) and some extra credit. Just show up and make sure you're well prepared for the exams and you'll get an A for sure! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

this is not an easy class but not hard at all. u should listen to his lecture and redo problems in ppt.I am not good at english so I have to record his lecture and listen to it again.that is how I get good grade in his class.by the way he is also very funny,u wont feel any pressure in his class but don't let your guard down because of it or u'll di

WOW...That curve is crazy...Now with that...The test are pretty tough, but he's really nice on the grading...I almost wanna say that an A in this class is impossible without the curve...25/50 is still a C...It's that good.

what is the problem with the curve like the last comment? the test is hard and that is why he base on who has the highest score to grade the other. isn't it fair enough? chem 12 is hard but with balm, if u try your best, u will get what u expect. never think that u can get anything without trying. that's ridiculous.

Such a terrific professor, engaging, passionate, giving, and supportive, truly has his students best interest in mind. The class is challenging, yet incredibly fascinating, in part because of Balm's limitless passion for the subject and for teaching. He really likes his students! The three tests r difficult, study the slides, take good class notes.

this teacher is very good, he is clear, helpful and curves the test like crazy. he is also quite funny. take his class as soon as u can.

CONSIDER YOURSELF VERY VERY LUCKY TO HAVE HIM FOR CHEM 11 AND/OR 12! I have cross-referenced and he is the easiest teacher in all CC's in Southern Cal. Take him with no Hesitation! PPl are willing to pay other students to drop their spots and add him! W/ extra credit an 86% is an A. Drops the lowest exam. Part. n' lab are 20% of ur grade! Easy A!!

Class is pure lecture. The material can sometimes be pretty dull, but the rest of the time it's interesting. His exams are tough, but he curves it so the curve is only helping you. He is funny and tries to keep your attention by making jokes. It is a lot of material, so DO study!

You can tell he is passionate about astronomy. He does not believe in expensive textbooks. he give us the powerpoints to print and study from. Cheap and affordable class! Must study and do all extra credit.

Awesome professor!!! The best professor I have EVER had at smc. If you want a charismatic, helpful, original, and hilarious professor teaching you the material then this is your guy. No book just ppt and you do have to study quite a bit. Grade is 3 tests and that is it. By far the best professor I have ever had if you see his class is open take it!

funny and chill teacher, but hard class. it's a lot of material to grasp if you're not familiar with it. no homework, no assignments, attendance is not mandatory but he does give extra credit. limited extra credit. grades depend on 4 tests throughout the semester + e/c. hard questions, study guide nothing like actual exam.

He's such an incredible professor! He's enthusiastic about the subject and so willing to help you when you have questions. Tests are hard but as long as you study the powerpoints, you'll be fine. No homework and textbook ever.

Nice chill guy. Class is kinda dry. Tests are tricky, but the curves are fairly generous so as long you get low Bs you'll end up with As. He's pretty helpful answering your questions through email. I got a 98% in class, but I did study his powerpoints a lot and paid attention during lectures.

Simon is by far the best teacher I've ever had at SMC. I was amazed at how he would keep us interested at 8am every morning. He provided us with power points on the lectures, & the homework we had was practically a study guide for the tests we had. We were also provided a study guide for the final. He curves. Best teacher ever!

Took him for Astronomy. Love this professor, he's so funny and classes are fun with his fun jokes. Exams are somewhat tricky but he will give you powerpoints to print out and study. He will also give you a practice exam to let you study for the real exam! Awesome teacher!

I wondered if it was just me but I found him handsome. I guess I was right according to the ratings. He is really brilliant, extremely helpful and accessible. Delighted to take his class, which was very inspiring. Beware of Term#2. It will be all about DNA/protein bindings. Last time none got even 40/50. But I got an A since he adjusted the curve!

He truly loves the subject and does his best to communicate it through his lessons in a painless and entertaining way. Even people who aren't passionate about astronomy should be able to appreciate this class, and he is a fair and compassionate teacher. If you even like astronomy a little, you'll likely enjoy his class.

He was hilarious and entertaining. Passionate about the subject and inspired us to take interest in it. Encouraged us when it seemed tough. Provided a lot of helpful materials. And did I mention he was hilarious? If only all teachers were like him.

Material can be a bit boring sometimes but sometimes it can be incredibly interesting. He likes to make jokes and he has a British accent! There's no book. Just study a lot and you'll be fine. Great class!!!

As difficult as astronomy can get I recommend it!Take it with Prof.Balm and you'll have a time of your life. My favorite class I ever took, he's really chill and funny too.Makes jokes all the time. He's really helpful if you don't understand something and makes sure that you get the help needed.Test are difficult but the curve helps a lot!TAKE HIM!

Perhaps the best teacher at the SMC. Extremely clear. Extremely funny. Extremely interesting. Totally recommend.

Simon is hilarious, and awesome at teaching chemistry! He really knows his stuff. Just don't be fooled by how funny he is and his curve his tests are still difficult. Just study and do the homework! An A is totally attainable!

this is a guy you wanna drink and have fun with. Great sense of British humor and smart person. I wish people in LA were as comfortable as this guy.

So much fun! He is so nice and laid back, and even nicer during his office hours! No textbook, although I found it helpful the print the pdfs he sends you prior to that lecture in class to add any extra notes on. His tests are hard but curved with the median grade being a C. Pay attention during lecture and study the pdfs and you'll beat the curve

To think that there could be such an amazing teacher at smc is astonishing. Definately recommended if you're trying to learn and have a laugh at the same time. Attend class everyday, take good notes, pay attention to his jokes (they always somehow relate to the lecture), and actually do the homework. Love this man lol

Prof Balm is very knowledgeable. He tries to make his lectures as clear as possible, but it is quite hard to keep up without shutting down my eyes, esp it's an 8:00 class. Some areas of astronomy get interesting, but some are just dull. But nevertheless, i recommend him if you want to take astro

He is without a doubt the BEST chem professor! 4 exams, homework, 2 finals and gives 2 extra credit opportunity. i got a B in the class but could of gotten an A if i finished my homework. TAKE HIM!

He is hilarious! A great professor who knows what he is talking about. Don't get behind on your work and don't forget to remember the dang polyatomic ions. The tests are pretty difficult, but he drops the lowest and offers extra credit. I recommend him to anyone.

Best professor ever! His mellow and love his class. Very helpful and know his knowledge. I highly recommend him

Best professor EVER! He is so nice and genuine. Drops the lowest test score. His tests are hard, but he will help you get through the class. He wants everyone to succeed. Incredible guy. HILARIOUS. Always cracking jokes. TAKE HIM, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!!!! Best science teacher that you will ever have!

I seriously love Prof. Balm he is one of the best professors I've ever had, he is so nice and very helpful. His class is fun to take since he jokes a lot but he doesn't use a book so everything on the exams are based on the powerpoints and the notes that you take. I will take a class with him again for sure.

I initially did not want anything to do with Astronomy, but Balm changed that around. His lectures about the solar system were extremely interesting. Extremely charismatic and funny, shows his love for the subject. Absolutely recommend, clear explanation.Mandatory attendance to grasp material, because no book required.

clear lectures, hard tests, 1 essay paper, hilarious professor with lovely British accent.

He makes the subject of astronomy, an already interesting subject, simply fascinating because he's so good at teaching and is passionate about the subject. It makes for an exciting academic experience to be honest. He's also a British fellow who tells lots of funny stories about his time in England. I highly recommend him.

HE IS THE NICEST PROFESSOR IN SMC. I took this class in summer and got the highest A's on all of his tests. You definitely have to study, but i only studied his slides. You don't even have to pay attention in class to be able to get an A in this class. I was in high school when I took this class. If you are lazy then dont bother taking this class.

Balm is very amicable and funny. The material can be a bit boring at times but he always tries to keep the class entertained with jokes. His tests are hard but are given very generous curves. He also gives a little bump to your grade if you're close enough to the next letter grade. Overall, very friendly and very helpful.

He is amazing. He makes classes fun. I don't really like Chem but might take his class just because he is so awesome. You must show up and pay attention and you can get an A without that much studying.

Took him for Chem 10 and 11, wish he was teaching 12

I took his class in the fall and he is an amazing teacher. His exams are VERY difficult but is determined to have his students learn the hard material. I am now taking his chem 11 class.

Textbook isn't required for his class (100% lecture and note-taking); however, I highly suggest reading the book as well. His class was interesting and somewhat easy. You need to study a lot and do the sample tests he puts on ecompanion. Overall, he's a rather funny and awesome Professor. Interesting subject, though not an easy A.

Hands down THE BEST teacher I've ever had at SMC. His lectures are straightforward and he has a great sense of humor. Really makes learning fun. Astronomy is not an easy subject to learn, but Prof. Balm is very understanding and tries to keep it simple as much as possible. I would recommend his class to anyone.

Very funny. He is a very laid back professor. He asks you to call him simon. The material is a little dry unless you're interested in astronomy. He does makes it as interesting as possible even for non-science majors. Very little homework just take notes and do well on the tests and you should be fine.

One of the best professors at SMC. He's hilarious, he's very laid-back and he has a way of breaking down mathematical concepts to make them less intimidating. His lectures were so entertaining that most people showed up in class every single week. Tests are tough, but if you come to class, take notes and actually study them, you should be fine.

Took three astronomy classes with him... He's very funny, understanding, passionate and entertaining! Barely any homework, no textbook required. Reading Contact by Carl Sagan is highly recommended for Astro 5. Loved taking his classes!

I am astronomically challenged but I loved this class. Professor Balm is very smart, kind and responsive to all questions. He knows how to put things into perspective, so you don't stress out about getting a bad grade on a weekly test! I learned so much and want to learn more because of his enthusiasm. Best class thus far.

Great Professor, clear and funny in his presentations. I took an 8 weeks online class so, lots of work!! Material extremely interesting. No Midterm or final, just a quiz every week and participation in class discussions and other class activities. Extra credit very possible if you can get organized and find the time for it. Recommended!

Simon Balm is my favorite teacher ever, including k-12. He is so funny and makes the most of each class. He writes his own material and makes every student feel important. I cannot express what a positive presence he has. Considered switching my major based on just one of his classes. AMAZING!! BRILLIANT!! COMEDIC GENIUS!!

Take! He's very nice and is an Easy A if you post to the discussions and take his weekly tests! :) He even gives you practice tests every week! He doesn't assign any research papers or nothing like that! He's very good!

balm is highly intelligent but very humble. he tries to make his lectures as intresting as possible. he dumbs down the info but throws a lot at you. 3 tests, 1 paper, drops one if you do extra credit. test are kinda tough but he curves the test based on the c average of the class. Read "contact"! at 5 easy questions are going to be on every test.

This man is the best professor I've ever encountered in my life. I'm making my brother take him next semester when he comes to SMC. I actually looked forward to coming to this class and hearing his lectures. Expect to crack up every class period.

Prof. Simon Balm is brilliant. He goes beyond meeting the needs of his students. He makes sure his lectures are clear, interesting, and informative. All of his lectures left me inquisitive about the origin, so I began researching energy and matter for a better understanding. His lectures really turned me on to science. A science herald! Take him.

I truly enjoyed this class. I took him for Astronomy 1. there is no required textbook. He doesn't assign work out of class and offers extra credit. He posts his lecture powerpoint online which is helpful for studying but attendance is very important. Take good notes on his lectures and pay attention in class. His sense of humor keeps itinteresting

BEST PROFESSOR EVER!!! HE ALSO HAS AN AMAZING SENSE OF HUMOR

GREAT PROFESSOR! HILARIOUS, PASSIONATE AND INSPIRED A LOVE OF ASTRONOMY. TESTS ARE FAIR. ONE OF MY FAVORITE PROFESSORS. HE'S A STAR. :)

Great guy, good sense of humor, recognizes most people taking this class arent science majors and would most likely be somewhere else and made class fun despite the dry subject. still need to study a lot but he curves. also no textbook only his posted powerpoints

Professor balm is a great professor. The class is an easy a if you study and go to his office hours. On top of everything he curves the tests.

Professor Balm has a huge sense of humor in his lectures, gives extra credit, answers his emails within an hour or less or you messaging him. He breaks everything down to make it easy for you to understand. this time last year I dropped 2 science classes and here I am in Professor Balm's class with an A! No textbook necessary. Love astronomy!

Professor Balm is a great teacher and gets involved with helping student; however, his grading system will set you up for failure. The tests are worth 75% and the homework is 25% which is basically nothing. If you fail the tests, there is no chance to get an A or B if you fail two or more test.

He's cool/funny, but needs to line and parse out the material more &give organized study guides, hard material presented fast/scattered. Tests are curved to D's becoming A's, no final. I would rather have a greater understanding of the subject vs a curved test score. Getting an A, but am a science major. Why is attendance 10% when PP is online?

The tests are really hard. I took the course online, which made it harder to do well because there was so much material that I couldn't get myself to study it all completely. If you read all of the material and study it, you should get an A.

He offers extra credit, but its only 1% of your total grade. Test are too hard, even for me and I am a science major with a 3.9 GPA and I had to receive a W on my transcript. We are only graded on 3 weekly discussions. When you see test results, you see that the test questions are vague and could pertain to other information in the notes. Terrible.

Awesome class but many thought it was math and science heavy - it isn't, and there are no prerequisites other than a willingness to learn. 6-week summer session weekly test w/lowest grade dropped, weekly web/news discussion post, weekly question post+response, weekly general discussion post+response. Text not required, prof provides all readings.

Great teacher! This class is very heavy with material. I wrote on average about 4-5 pages of notes a class. However, it is absolutely fascinating. 3 exams, weekly discussions, extra credit (which is about 2%). The exams are not easy (50 questions). You really have to study for them and there is a lot of material to study. He grades on a curve.

His class can be a little dry at times but when its interesting its REALLY interesting. Its a pretty simple setup, you show up and he lectures, take notes, 3 tests graded on a curve, study and you do well. Nothing else to it. If you like space and are interested to know more but don't want to commit to a really hard science class this course is 4u.

Professor Balm is one of the funniest professors ever! Even though the class was online, he really tries his best to keep the lectures interesting. He also does a great job of providing different ways to study the material instead of your standard powerpoint lecture. He is a fair grader and is clear on what he expects from his students.

I really enjoyed Professor Balm's class! light workload, interesting etc. class was mostly him reading the slides & the class taking notes, a lot of information covered but not stressful.. when he let his personality show, he had the best sense of humor ever & had an all-around great energy to him! paper @ the end of semester was fun to write.

Took Astro 2 online for Spring 2017. It was an 8-week course so the material was heavy, however, as long as you make sure to do all the work, you will pass. The tests were hard and some of the slides were outdated, but overall if you study- it was an easy pass. He has a good sense of humor and is fair in grading.

Prof. Balm is wonderful. He's very understanding, very funny, great communicator, and gives pretty good material to study. You can complete the class with an A if you do the Extra Credit & use quizlet. You don't need the book at all. Google is your best friend. I would take him again.

I Took this class online for 8 weeks and this class has become one of my favorite classes at SMC. Overall this class was a breeze Professor Balm is very organized and he has a very clear grading criteria. Everything that you need to know are posted in slides and those slides can be helpful for studying for the quiz's which are 75% of your grade.

Extremely compassionate, funny and caring (when you take the time to talk to him). For a non Astro major I found the material very difficult and lectures super informational, but more suited for students who have taken other Astro classes before hand. However, if you explain what you're having difficulties with, he will do his best to help you.

Great proffesor. Probably the best online class I've ever taken. I learned a lot and was challenged just enough to have to push myself a bit. You will definitely need to study (it is college after all) but its fairly easy to get an A in the class.

Really great class. Very informative. Material was super interesting for me. Professor is really good. There are only 3 tests and bunch of online discussions. You need to work for an A. Tests might be hard for non-science students, but they are based on a curve. Overall, it was a fun class.

This was one of the best online classes I have ever taken. It's very clear what is asked of you. No textbook. Same schedule and due dates every week. You will have to do the work to do well on tests. Lectures are like videos/powerpoints that you'll have to watch or read. Took the 8 week class and spent about 4h-5h a week on the class. Got an A.

Very nice and funny professor. Very little homework, just two weekly assignments that took 10 mins each. Final was not cumulative. Tests are pretty easy if you study. Tells jokes in class and you can tell he likes teaching astronomy.

nice professor! funny, and we had one group project. i took his scholars class in my first semester at smc, we had online in-class tests and honestly if you take notes and study you'll be fine

The lectures can feel overwhelmingly long and heavy but bearable because he is so funny and very easy to listen to. He makes the lectures extremely interesting! A humble professor that enjoys laughing. If that's not enough for you, he curves the tests too!!! Would love to take him again.

This class was my first semester, so I was nervous to take this. He gave us only 2 homework in a week and it was not heavy. Also, the class used PowerPoint so you dont need to take a note. He is kind and fun. I recommend him class!

Professor Balm is one of the most amazing professors I've had thus far. He's really dedicated to his work which inspires students to do as well as they possibly can. He's caring and funny and overall a very sweet man. His class was easy and engaging no matter what you're interested in. He reminds you of assignments which shows that he cares.

Even though his class was designed for "non-STEM" majors, it was surprisingly math-heavy and memorization-heavy. I had to really study for it (Crash Course videos are your best friend), as his exams were quite difficult. Good news is that he's very accessible outside of the classroom, and he's truly caring about his students.

He is so zany and funny!! I took his Astro 5 class because we were to discuss life in other planets. Very E.T.! It was a lot of fun! The images he uses in his projector are amazing! However, the material can be very challenging. It's science, of course! But they are informative. You will get a kick out of his class. Pretty cool overall!

(COVID) I took the scholars class; it was HARD. I really learned so much, though. I can explain worm holes, black holes, event horizon, space/time, and more. This class will change your life and will make you a much more entertaining party guest. He is absolutely hilarious as a lecturer. But if you're looking for something easy, look elsewhere.

Prof. Balm is excellent. I took his online, six-week Astro 1 class this summer and highly recommend it. Amazingly clear with a checklist at the start of each week, and review questions after each (very funny) lecture. Tests were a bit hard but open-note. Quick response times. The one negative is that his lectures haven't been updated in 3 years...

He was a really great and funny professor but his tests were impossible, they tested things that weren't in the notes at all. Thankfully there was a lot of homework so I was still able to get an A. The papers and hw are pretty easy just make sure you follow the rubric exactly and turn it in on time because he was pretty strict about that.

Class material is straightforward. Professor Balm was always fast to respond to my questions. Some of the questions on the weekly quizzes were not covered on the weekly material. As long as you watch the lectures, turn in the assignments and discussions on time, you should be fine! There were no exams at all, not sure if this is typical or not.

Well thought out course on Canvas, good professor. Do the work on time, stay at it, communicate with the class and professor and you will improve each week. Highly recommend taking full semester class unless Science is a natural to you. Half semester class was not easy for me. You will learn allot about the skies. Communication is good for online.

Prof. Balm gives a lot of work and presentation lectures but is consistent with his schedule and grading. There's a lot of material to cover but he is straightforward with his work. He expects the same every week and spreads them out for you to finish. Plan your work ahead; you will not finish last minute. No trick questions on quizzes and no final

This class was taken online over the summer. He is very organized and clear with what he wants. Assignments are relatively easy. Class is basically watching pre-recorded lectures and taking a weekly exam. There is no final. Relatively straightforward with everything, so you don't have to stress out. Would definitely recommend.

Easy class if comfortable with science. Not a lot of math or anything, just need to understand concepts. Summer 6-week session is brutal, but class is well-organized, 6 weekly tests, no midterm or final; 1 post-only discussion, 2 post-and-reply-discussions per week. Most lectures are 5-15 mins but need to watch like 10+ a week; text not required.

I took Professor Balm's Astronomy 3 class for Fall 2021. It was an 8 week course online but I don't regret it! After you get adjusted to the work it'll be very easy to do. I recommend coming up with good time management to finish assignments as there is 3 discussion posts, labs, lab quiz, and a weekly test. Very fast paced but you do learn.

Im not known for being good at anything science related, so I was dreading taking any science class. Prof Balm is amazing. There are lots of assignments, but they are easy and the instructions are always very clear. More than anything he wants you to enjoy astronomy as much as he does!

Easy if you do the work. Don't need science background but any science class helps. Every week = 1 quiz, 1 discussion, 1 question, 1 web post - NO EXAMS! Lowest quiz dropped. Extra credit. Allows late work. Be careful as there's lots of work so EVERY POINT COUNTS for your grade. Taken 4 classes with him wish there were more. Short sessions intense.

Professor Balm is awesome and his lecture videos are actually fun! His class is extremely well organized with clear grading criteria, he tells us what he expects from us during the first week. You will get points deducted even if you turn in your assignment late- no late work for full credit! I learned a lot and really enjoyed taking this class!

Funny guy and a little provocative lol. If youre offended easy dont take. I liked his class. I only wished he would have opened up the entire course instead of doing it week by week. And his questions on tests are worded a bit strangely. Just be cautious.

his class is fun and gives good grades

He makes Astronomy easy to understand.

There's a lot of work if you're taking it as a 6 week course, but not anything you can't handle (about one hour or less of studying a day). The professor organized everything so that you could see when everything was due and created clear weekly checklists for us. No required textbooks/final. All tests are open book. I actually enjoyed this class !

I just finished his 8 week course and it was pretty hard but not impossible. I took the asynchronous course so it was lecture heavy. There are 3 weekly discussion posts and weekly tests. The tests can be pretty difficult but as long as you study, you'll pass. He also gives extra credit so take advantage. Overall a nice professor.

2 to 3 units each week along with weekly discussions and web discoveries.Multiple formats offered for the unit lectures and after each chapter of the unit there is a mini quiz you can take as many times as you want.The weekly tests are timed.extra credit too.He also accomidates students with disabilities.He genuinely wants everyone to do well.

Took his online 8 week course and overall pretty challenging but not impossible. As long as you watch the lectures and study the tests shouldn't be too much of a problem. But you will definitely have to put in work this class is not an easy A. Overall seems like a good professor, his lectures were always interesting.

Super interesting course with very knowledgable professor. It was really great taking a fully online course while receiving physical lab credits; with hands-on labs like building a spectrometer and online sky simulations. You'll get an A just by completing work a day before the due date, he really values promptness!!

Professor Balm's ASTO1 class is challenging but doable. The lectures are engaging, and he genuinely wants students to succeed. Using unstuckstudy AI, ChatGPT, and the free textbook helped me prepare for the weekly tests. Attend class, do the work, and you'll walk away with a solid grade.

i took professor balm's 8 week astronomy class. lots of work, but overall easy and straight foward and the lectures were really interesting. just turn work in all time and study a lot and you'll easily get an A. I'd take his classes again.

I took his 8 week astronomy course. just be prepared for a LOT of studying and note taking. it was relatively easy and his lectures were super interesting, i would take him again honestly. I have nothing but good things to say about this professor :-)

I hate Science so much, but Prof. Balm made this course as simple as could be. I enrolled for the Winter term, so it's 6 straight weeks of homework. Definitely need to dedicate about 8 hours a week, but the test are open note. Because I enrolled online, I feared for the labs, but he left amazing instructions, making them pretty self explanatory.

Everything in this class is well-organized, and it's clear that the professor has a lot of experience. While there is a good amount of homework—as you'd expect from a lab course—the structure makes it very manageable. I was nervous at first, but the expectations are straightforward. If you stay on top of the work, it's a clear path to an easy A!

This prof's lectures are funny and engaging! At first, I was nervous about the workload, but by the second week, I knew it was so manageable. As long as you manage your time well, completing the assignments and receiving an A is a breeze. The quizzes are open-note and not too challenging. Overall, for an 8-week class, it was fairly stress-free.

Prof. Balm was really nice and respectful. The labs were really fun experiences. He's also a really interesting professor. If you are required to take a science class, I would definitely recommend taking prof. Balm

Professor Balm's class was so easy and simple to understand. He makes sure that all of his students fully understand the material. There are both in-class and out of class labs that are required, but these are honestly super fun to do. I definitely would recommend taking Professor Balm for any of the Astronomy classes here at SMC.

I took Astronomy 3 as an accelerated course, so there were frequent assignments. With that being said, there wasn't a single assignment that I struggled with. Each week's assignments are laid out the same way, so you always know what to expect. The instructions and grading criteria couldn't be more clear. The lectures and labs are highly enjoyable.

this professor was so funny throughout his online lectures and the jokes usually caught me offguard which made them funnier. really chill professor and the tests are basically the same as the practice quizzes which you can look back on. great professor!