3.1

Will Spires

History - Santa Rosa Junior College

3.1
Quality
3.5
Difficulty
41%
Would Retake
118
Reviews
3.1
Quality
3.5
Difficulty
3.1
Helpful
3.0
Clarity

41%

Would Retake

118

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

25

4

31

3

18

2

24

1

20

What Students Say

“Aside from is horid habit of smacking his lips in the middle of every sentence, Spires is inept at getting across the information he wants you to know for your assignments, and merely tells recountings of his time 'studying' anthro in the field, and you're left wondering what any of that had to do with the subjects that you were supposed to learn”

ANTHRO2 - 1.0 rating

“Took this as a summer class big mistake”

HIST172 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

70%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 21 grades
Most common grades:
A (6)
B (3)
Not sure yet (3)
Grade Distribution
A(8)B(3)C(4)D(4)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 30 reported grades
A: 6
B: 3
Not sure yet: 3
Rather not say: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (18)
Tough grader (13)
Lecture heavy (9)
Graded by few things (9)
Gives good feedback (4)
Tough Grader (3)
Skip class? You won't pass. (3)
LECTURE HEAVY (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.48 avg change
Jul
Nov
Dec
Apr
May
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

HST

5.0

(1)

ANTHRO321

5.0

(1)

FOLKLANTH

5.0

(1)

ANTHR30

5.0

(1)

HIST182

5.0

(1)
+22 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ANTHR0098

5.0

ANTHR21

4.2

172

4.0

HISTORY172

4.0

HIST17P1

4.0

Reviews (118)
2.0
2.0
HIST172
Nov 7, 2003

Very disorganized in teaching style. Also very biased toward his own interests. Some interesting facts, but EXTREMELY liberal, which bothered some people. Plays random stringed instruments in class.

5.0
3.0
HST
Aug 16, 2004

Spires was boring at first, but you get the hang of his style and he's allright. Liberal, yes. But I would call him a realist. A big fan of "new history." Also, he's quite handy with a violin. I recommend Spires.

3.0
2.0
HIST172
Aug 23, 2004

If taking for summer, I recommend taking by itself. Do not take with anything else. If you do this, you will get an automatic A. He is very libral, it is kind of annoying, but at the same time, he listens if you speak.

4.0
2.0
HIST171
Dec 10, 2004

Everyone's complaining that he's so liberal. I think a better term is enthusiastic about imparting the darker, more unexplored perspectives on historic events. Will's lectures were very illuminating and total food for thought. I recommend Will to anyone with an open mind and a strong stomach :)

5.0
2.0
ANTHRO21
Dec 14, 2004

Spires is a really good teacher. Not my favorite, but not at all worth putting down. If he seems like he teaches History liberally to some students posting here, it is likely because he teaches HISTORY, not he diluted B.S. they feed you in elementary school. His lectures were usually interesting

3.0
3.0
HISTORY172
Jan 23, 2005

Very liberal. Whatever you do, do not let him catch you reading the textbook in class. He has an almost pathological dislike of this practice and will embarrass you if you do.

4.0
1.0
ANTHRO21
Jan 26, 2005

Vague feeling at first but comes together as semester progresses. Fun and interesting projects and really has a passion for his subject. I found the class fun but way to easy.

4.0
3.0
ANTHRO21
Mar 11, 2005

Funny guy, lots of reading...so try to keep up with the reading. Gives a brief study guide before tests, but still not very detailed. Enjoys teaching, and very much a respectable teacher. If you respect him and show that you're trying, he'll help you out.

4.0
2.0
ANTHRO
Mar 16, 2005

Spires gives a rare glimpse into a what think is a rich past...this is what folklore always seemed to be about for me....I'm older...but I'm learning. Where do we go if there's no WIll SPires? I have a tatoo and love pop culture, but this is the peoples' history...and it feels like a treasure.

5.0
3.0
HISTORY172
Apr 21, 2005

Great teacher, especially if you like history. He is ready to engage with you when you have something to offer. Liberal, but open minded and his class is a joy to take if History is meaningful for you.

2.0
3.0
HISTORY172
May 5, 2005

The class itself was pretty easy. Open book tests. His lectures on the other hand were kindof annoying. History teachers should stick to fact, and not their own opinions. He offended me by many things he said, and I think that his opinion should not be taught.

2.0
1.0
HIST171
May 12, 2005

I could care less about his political views, the man is so boring as a speaker. He says "UH" and "UMM" about 10,000 times every ten minutes. He gets through two points that he wants to make and then puts things on exams that he never talked about. the text book only does so much. DO NOT suggest him.

5.0
4.0
HIST172
Aug 11, 2005

I found Mr. Spires to be an interesting and engaging instructor. If you take his class seriously and participate in discussion of the course material during class you will not only pass the course you will enjoy it.

4.0
2.0
HIST171
Aug 14, 2005

Has great stories but loves to tell ALL of them. He talks a lot but hardly any notes on the board that are relevant. Anything he says could be important so always take notes. Read the test book isn't #1 priority. I hardly touched it. Essays very easy if you mention many specifics: time frame, who, what etc. Slightly interesting class, but neat prof

5.0
3.0
ANTHRO321
Aug 30, 2005

Good Spirt, helpful and clear in his approach, technique. Know's his religions, people and respects people's beliefs.

5.0
2.0
ANTHRO21
Sep 1, 2005

Will Spires is an awesome teacher, this class was a blast and i highly reccomend it

4.0
2.0
HIST171
Oct 9, 2005

Good class, semi interesting. But good guy. Like his talks.

1.0
1.0
HIST172
Oct 17, 2005

No Comments

5.0
3.0
ANTHRO21
Oct 18, 2005

AWSOME, he is so funny and a pleasure to be around, he grades fair and the tests are well planned in advance. I hope everyone at SRJC gets a chance to work with Will!!!

1.0
3.0
HIST171
Nov 27, 2005

This guys if freaking terrible. last class i went to i kept a running talling and he said "umm" 1000 times in the first hour, no joke. he goes over nothing from the test in class and your only hope is to memorize the book. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS FOR THE LOVE OF GOD DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!!

1.0
3.0
HIST21
Dec 12, 2005

He is very unorganized, and unclear. He talks a lot, and you never know what to remember. The final was unreasonable. Just find another teacher.

5.0
1.0
HIST171172
Dec 12, 2005

I really enjoyed Will's class. He's changed his class a lot to be clearer and more organized. He does tell a lot of stories, (but it wastes time so WHO CARES?!), if you do the work you will pass the class. I got 107/100 % in it...couldn't have been too hard. Meet him half way and he'll give you and A, I promise.

5.0
5.0
ANTHRO21
Dec 23, 2005

The epitome of great teachers,he will go into history as a man that lived life to the fullest. Some students don't understand him, he doesn’t expect you to! If you did poorly it is due to your own ignorance, not his.Will is AWESOME, it was my honor to be in his class, don’t listen to the teacher bashers, it’s hard work, this is college.

4.0
4.0
HIST171
May 4, 2006

Interesting guy. Plays the banjo and guitar, knows his subject very well and is very passionate about it. I saw history from a much different viewpoint, that of the minorities like native Americans, blacks, and yes, women. Nice guy.

3.0
4.0
HISTORY171
May 15, 2006

Not an easy class--he expects you to work and be involved in class disscussion. (He will be wait *forever* for someone to give the answer a question!) Takes role every class and expects good attendence. This semester, the first 2 Midterms were way different set-up from the Final-- and in Midterms, you have to write 3 in-class essays (in 1 1/4 hrs)

5.0
3.0
HIST171
May 20, 2006

He is very fun. He expects class participation. He'll wait for answers. Tests are in essay form but the finals will be multiple guess. He gives diff points of view. His view, the book's view, and the other view which books commonly avoid. So you have a choice on what you think is true and not just fed crap. He is a great teacher. Take him!

5.0
2.0
ANTHRO21
May 22, 2006

Will's a very good teacher,but also a great storyteller-watch out or you'll forget to take notes!The only bad thing is,he only gives 2 exams-midterm & final no room for error!Lots of names to remember.He makes class fun playing banjo & fiddle All in all-tough but excellent teacher

4.0
2.0
HIST171
May 23, 2006

this is my second semester w/Will. He's a great teacher & he loves history..his passion makes you interested. his tests are fairly easy (first two were essays & you could have an outline) & i have yet to take his final. he provides good lectures & study guides. i would reccomend him for sure!

4.0
4.0
HIST172
Jun 2, 2006

Spires was uhh.... a really uhh... funny guy. He's a great fiddle player, but his class tends to be pretty boring. Maybe it's just not my subject

5.0
3.0
HISTORY171
Jul 5, 2006

He did everything he could to get me to pass his class, and he is passionate about the material.

4.0
4.0
HIST171
Jul 11, 2006

Mr. Spires is a great guy. However, if you're looking for an easy A, he is not the teacher for you. He is a human library of historical information. Sometimes it seems as though he has so much to say that he loses track of the point he was trying to make. This is a fantastic class if you're a dedicated student who wants to learn.

3.0
4.0
HIST17P1
Oct 30, 2006

Not an easy A. You'll need to read the book and pay attention of course. Tests are essays and he gives you the questions before hand. We read two books outside of class and wrote responses to them. He is a good teacher once you learn to ignore all his "um" 's. I've learned a lot and he doesn't make the work too intimidating.

4.0
4.0
HIST21
May 25, 2007

This class was interesting,I got an A but I worked hard for it. We read the textbook and two other books. We had to write analysis papers on the two books. Attendance is a must because he covers alot of material each class that you will be tested on in two midterms and a final. He is a controlling person and will stop class to confront people.

4.0
5.0
HIST21
Oct 23, 2007

I love him! He is an awesome teacher, but covers a lot of material and goes fast. He is very smart and loves to talk. You have to go to class or you will miss a lot.

5.0
3.0
HIST21
Jan 19, 2008

Will Spires is insipring and loves the subject he teaches...he is extremely smart, but make sure you go to his classes and take notes. He is a great teacher.

1.0
4.0
ANTRH21
May 6, 2008

i do not unerstand how people like his class! i literally hated the class more then any class i have ever taken! he is a horrible teacher! half the time you cant figure out what the heck he is talking about! he talks too fast for taking notes and expects you to know everything and LOVE the topic. DO NOT TAKE THIS TEACHER!

2.0
4.0
HIST17
May 6, 2008

dude... he'll yell at you if you lift your head up out of your notes for a second, thinking that you aren't taking notes when you have like 2 pages worth since you have to write down almost every word that comes out of his mouth. Hard class. Scary teacher. And he talks and moves through the material WAY too fast.

3.0
2.0
ANTHR21
May 19, 2008

Will is a really nice guy. He is willing to compromise with students on his due dates if the class has reasonable reasons to do so. He dry lectures so for me it was easy to day dream during the lecture. Otherwise it's an easy class. Just 3 big papers and 3 tests.

2.0
4.0
HISTHIST
Jul 1, 2008

Spires really does know what he is talking about and is very passionate BUT he is very unorganized. He will give you study guides for tests and then have the test material not match half of what is on the study guide. He also likes to loose test grades so KEEP ALL OF YOUR WORK! or just take a different professor.

2.0
4.0
ANTHR21
Aug 9, 2008

will spires is a great story teller and banjo player. He takes his class very serious, but he seemed on edge at every class. He would snap and yell at people. He was not very helpful. Study guides were not helpful very vague. his dry lectures do nothing for the subject.

1.0
4.0
ANTH21
Oct 11, 2008

No Comments

4.0
5.0
ANTHR0098
Dec 5, 2008

this class took some getting used to. it's a lot of work, but Spires is very well informed and very passionate about his subject matter. for the most part, i enjoyed it.

2.0
5.0
ANTHR21
Jan 15, 2009

Passionate about folklore, yet extremely unhelpful and often yells at students for not maintaining infinite eye contact w/him during class. Hard class, I was doing fine until the final few weeks of class. The field collection final was like 3 finals combined on top of an in class final. I learned a lot in the class, but it's not worth the effort

4.0
3.0
HIST21
Mar 5, 2009

I was interested in this class prior to taking the course. After taking Will Spires I have such a better awareness, understanding and outlook on race, ethnicity and gender in US history. He is very passionate and each class is unique and engaging. I even cried during one of his stories in class. I def. recommend this instructor for history!

4.0
5.0
ANTHR21
Apr 16, 2009

Don't be put off by thin skinned people, Will is always ready to help even if he runs a tight ship. When the chips are down he is on your side 100%. Take this class. You'll never forget it.

5.0
2.0
HIST21
May 26, 2009

Will was an inspiring professor. The man has an amazing memory and recall ability like no one I've ever met before. As long as you pay attention in class, keep an open mind with your papers, and do your work, you're guaranteed a descent grade. I was nervous at first, but ended up getting an A and realizing a new found love for history.

2.0
2.0
HIST21
Jun 22, 2009

I would not recommend him, to be honest. His lectures are boring, he talks too fast, he's incoherent most of the time. I had major issues with him for the final, where I had to go to the head of the history dept. to attempt to sort things out. His class isn't worth the trouble.

5.0
2.0
HIST17
Nov 24, 2009

"I've been there, I'VE SEEN IT! OKAY" He says this a lot. Spires is a good teacher and is somewhat computer literate and uses the internet to communicate with his students. The class consists of 2 mid-terms, scantrons + essays, and a final. Also requires all students to make a historical presentation to the class between that is 7-10 minutes long.

3.0
3.0
ANTH21
Dec 18, 2009

will spires is a very dedicated man and loves his field. on the other hand, his ability to pick up on students interests is zero. he has no social cues and will continue to lecture his students to death. very fuzzy lines of what is expected and expects full attention for every story, proverb and fact that comes out of his mouth.

2.0
2.0
HIST171
Dec 21, 2009

Will Spires is NOT the greatest history teacher. Yes his class is easy, but his lectures are dull. He expects you to read the book, so he covers only what he wants to. Part of his exams are essay questions, and most of the time they are too wordy and are confusing as to what he wants to be written. Take him if you want to be bored

3.0
3.0
HIST172
Jan 12, 2010

I liked this guy, pay attention and take notes and you'll be fine, his Powerpoints show you exactly what to write. Homework is non-existant, the class consists of a term-paper/presentation and a few tests; multiple choice and scantron, which he gives you study guides for and allows a small outline. Take him if you have prior interest in history.

4.0
4.0
HIST21
Apr 13, 2010

MR. Spires is passionate about history and his interest in the subject is apparent in the enthusiasm he shows in his lectures. I enjoyed both of the classes I've taken from him and can only say good things about him. He teaches history from the perspective of real, everyday people, not, as he says, "White guys on horses." A true scholar!

3.0
4.0
ANTRO21
May 24, 2010

Attendance is not taken on a regular basis, but if you want to pass the class show up. He is a great guy, very passonite about folklore. Take notes on everything, including his singing. It's a fun class. Last month of class is the hardest. You have been warned. But I still passed the class. :)

5.0
4.0
FOLKLANTH
Jul 18, 2010

Will Spires is a no nonsense instructor. If you are not serious about learning the material, get out. Otherwise, enjoy his wisdom, wit, and passion for the material he will present to you. He makes you feel the time, the people, the issues. I highly recommend his classes history or folklore. I learned much and enjoyed his style.

2.0
2.0
HIST17
Jul 21, 2010

Prof spires is a very dull speaker. His class, during the summer consists enitirely of 2 hour lectures. He will not tolerate students who do not pay attention, so at least pretend. His tests are all entirely based off the reading and he grades relatively easy although his multiple choice can be tough. He is an obsessor over names so put in as many as you can as often as you can. The class overall was very dry and you end up focusing on counting the "ums" he uses more than the class.

2.0
4.0
HIST17
Jul 23, 2010

He doesn't factor the students are there because they have to be(Required GE). If you aren't a history buff the course is challenging. He is obnoxious in the way her talks, tangents irrelevant to the course. I overheard many students say, he is a horrible instructor. Would never take him again. Worst class of college career and I'm dedicated.

2.0
4.0
HISTWORL
Aug 24, 2010

This guy yelled at me for turning a page in my notebook - no joke. This guy also yelled at a kid for chewing on a pen. This guy also shouts at you for not looking deep into his eyes when he speaks. MAKE, DIRECT, EYE, CONTACT, ALWAYS! Basically he yelled at everyone who was trying to pay attention, and he didn't once catch any of the texters, LAME!

3.0
3.0
ANTHR4101
May 26, 2011

On a personal level, I like the guy. As a professor, however, not so much. It's too bad, he obviously knows a great deal about what he's teaching, but his style is really unclear. I don't regret taking the class but I wouldn't take him again.

2.0
5.0
ANTH21
May 27, 2011

I can tell he likes what he teaches but, he is hard, has dull lectures, asks to much in last part of class, goes to fast with slides to be able to take notes and makes you read far to much out of class (along with the 8 papers he gives). Over all I would never make some one take this class

4.0
5.0
HIST17
Jun 1, 2011

He definitely knows a lot about history. He does go thu his slides a bit quick so i wasnt always able to write everything down. u need to read the textbook. u get one chance for extra credit. No hw, just exams. study guides were somewhat helpful. make sure u know things chronologically. B ontime and dont make it look like ur bored. learned a lot

4.0
3.0
ANTH21
Jun 9, 2011

Great guy, awesome musician, and fun teacher! Offeres a folklore class that was fun but found his grading was a bit tough on his essays.

2.0
4.0
HIST17
Sep 22, 2011

U can tell he is smart and has a lot of good info, he just goes through it very fast. I cannot stand the amount of reading, but understand it is history. A study guide is given B4 exam but would be beter if given B4 each section so i could know what to study throughout class instead of just in the week pror to the exam

2.0
4.0
HIST17
Sep 22, 2011

U can tell he is smart and has a lot of good info, he just goes through it very fast. I cannot stand the amount of reading, but understand it is history. A study guide is given B4 exam but would be beter if given B4 each section so i could know what to study throughout class instead of just in the week pror to the exam

2.0
5.0
HIST17
Oct 24, 2011

Obvious he is knowledgeable about history, however he goes through slides so fast its often hard to take notes, if you dont read the book you're screwed and grades essays quite harshly. try not to look bored or sleepy or like ur using a phone or you'll be asked to leave rather loudly

4.0
5.0
HIST172
Nov 11, 2011

Wow People... He asks a lot of his students because he is a GOOD TEACHER who cares about his classes and wants his students to do well! If you read your textbooks like good little students you will do well in his class (Not new info for most people). He is passionate about teaching and it is very easy to learn from someone who loves what they teach

4.0
2.0
HIST172
Nov 30, 2011

Took his class in the summer, and had a great time. He presents most of the info on powerpoint, and tends to say 'um' often. Gave a list of things to study before tests, and even allowed 20 word outlines for essays. If you read the book (a typical chapter is around 30~40 pgs), you'll have no trouble passing the class.Highly recommended teacher! :)

2.0
4.0
ANTHR62
Jan 19, 2012

almost all the folklore movies we saw in class, he had personal involvement in production or advised for. Spent a good amount of time yelling at people for texting, which was more distracting than the actual texting. His essay prompts were convoluted and he tended to expect something entirely different than what he asked

4.0
5.0
ANTHR21
Apr 17, 2012

I think Will Spires is a cool guy. I like his lectures and the pictures in his slides. His midterms are a bit hard, but if you study and work hard you will be fine. In everyone's comments they say how he yells at people, well I have never seen him yell. If your texting he will ask you 2 stop, but if your texting in class maybe you shouldn't b there

5.0
3.0
ANTHR30
Apr 29, 2012

Spires is my man of experience, intellectualism, and wisdom. He is passionate about his topics and seems like a guy you might have a beer with in a pub. He doesnâ??t sympathize with in class distractions but if your in college and cant stay off your phone in class, you probably shouldnâ??t be there. Get an easy A by having him review your work.

5.0
2.0
HIST182
May 22, 2012

Awesome teacher - passionate. I learned a ton in his class. He is pretty intolerant of immature behaviors which I completely understand as he doesn't ask for too much else from you. Highly recommend.

4.0
1.0
HIST171
Jun 14, 2012

Spires knows what he's talking about and brings in a lot of personal experiences. Even though I got an A on most of the exams and on the oral exam I got knocked down to a D because of attendance. He's a stickler, so SHOW UP and do the reading and participate when possible.

3.0
1.0
FOLKL4101
Aug 10, 2012

Really boring class most of the time. He tells a lot of stories which are interesting. Large part of class is on old time music which I was not expecting and didn't care about. 3 essays and 3 easy tests as long as the reading is done.

5.0
3.0
HIST171
Dec 21, 2012

Knows his history and presents lectures with fervor and uses descriptive examples. Texts were great. Must do all the reading and show some in class initiative. Cares about your understanding the subject matter and succeeding in his class.

3.0
5.0
HIST172
May 27, 2013

Be prepared to read--not skim-- a lot. Very few graded assignments, so you've got to make sure you understand the material thoroughly. But he's passionate about what he teaches and offers himself to help anyone who asks.

5.0
4.0
HIST172
Jun 3, 2013

Will thoroughly enjoys history and explores events not often noted in school texts. The text is one of the best I've had--easy reading. Show up and engage in discussions. Study groups help plenty and take detailed notes. I definitely recommend him, especially if you already love history.

2.0
4.0
HIST172
Jul 15, 2013

Took this as a summer class big mistake! Required 40-50 pages of reading 3 times a week. Class lectures were scattered compared to reading assignments. Quizzes were tough. Lectures don't coordinate with the material being read. Lectures about ppl not in the reading and will quiz you on those. Into historical names so you better have a good memory.

4.0
5.0
HIST172
Aug 3, 2013

If you're taking the summer class: tons of reading. Don't take the class if you're not a good reader. Lectures are 3 hours long with one, sometimes two ten minute breaks. These lectures are very tedious, but listen because he often teaches material not in the book. Take advantage of take home essays! Cannot stress that enough! Also, use flash cards

1.0
3.0
ANTHRO21
Jan 4, 2014

Horrible scattered teacher with a inconsistent grading system. Got As and Bs on all assignments and had near perfect attendance and walked away with a C. Pretentious personality and irrelevant lecturing.

5.0
3.0
HIST171
Mar 27, 2014

Fantastically detailed teacher. Very deep knowledge of every aspect of American history. REALLY felt like I got my monies worth on this one. Unlike some other teachers at SRJC, in his class YOU WILL LEARN SOMETHING. To those complaining that he's too hard, I suggest that you pay better attention. It only gets harder at 4 year college.

1.0
4.0
ANTHRO21
Apr 7, 2014

He is very knowledgeable about this class but his teaching style is confusing and not helpful. The lecture has nothing to do with his test and midterms. No point to going to class but he takes roll every class. Goes off on tangents and getting far behind schedule but expects you to keep up.

3.0
4.0
172
Dec 1, 2014

He's is very knowledgeable in history, but he spent too much time on the civil war (it's not part of the course), doesn't focus on major events, and his lectures often don't have anything to do with the tests. And on his tests he doesn't clearly tell us what we did wrong on the essay portion just that he's 'disappointed'. Also too much reading

5.0
4.0
HIST21
Dec 11, 2014

Mr. Spires is a wealth of knowledge and quite a good story teller in sharing that knowledge with students. He will NOT tolerate slackers, but if you want to learn about history and are not afraid to apply yourself to the task, this teacher will support you in every way he can. ALERT: Leave your cell phone in the car. Show up and be present.

1.0
4.0
HIST172
Jan 4, 2015

Spires is way too old to still be teaching. His lectures constantly jump around on topics. He would begin lecturing on one person in history switch to an event, switch to another person and randomly come back to the beginning person. I found it very difficult to keep my notes organized because of his erratic lecturing style. Study guides exam.

1.0
4.0
ANTHRO2
Grade: C+
Sep 21, 2015

Aside from is horid habit of smacking his lips in the middle of every sentence, Spires is inept at getting across the information he wants you to know for your assignments, and merely tells recountings of his time 'studying' anthro in the field, and you're left wondering what any of that had to do with the subjects that you were supposed to learn.

2.0
4.0
ANTHRO21
Dec 2, 2015

Doesn't specify what he wants. Waited until the week before finals and said to the class, well I hope you are all finishing up your fieldwork assignment. Everyone went huh?! Rambles. Only friendly to you if you are already knowledgable of places or things he likes. Grades fairly but needs to tell students what is due and when.

3.0
4.0
HIST172
Grade: C+
Dec 18, 2015

I took this class over the summer. You have got to work for your grade! There's no slacking, no cell phones, just you giving him your attention. Be prepared to study a lot for his class & make sure you know about almost every person he mentions in his lecture. Although he is very knowledgable in this subject. I loved listening to him talk.

1.0
5.0
HIST21
Grade: D+
Nov 20, 2016
Wouldn't take again

He is extremely harsh. Wrote "ouch" next to a couple of my exam grades. Along with unnecessary, unprofessional, comments. He has you read two 400 page books at once, very very time consuming. His lectures are quite all over the place, difficult to keep notes organized. I am an average B student and I feel put down by this teacher.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
3.0
3.0
HIST21
Grade: B
Dec 1, 2016
Wouldn't take again

He has a health problem, so he sits the entire class, which makes it difficult to stay engaged at times, but this isn't a huge issue. The bigger issue is the amount of reading he expects from you, but I only read half a book and walked away with a solid B, so the class wasn't terribly difficult, SOME effort required. Lots of note taking required.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: D
Dec 6, 2016
Wouldn't take again

This teacher is way to old. I believe he is 75 right now. If he doesnt agree with you politically, he will mark down your essays for that. He doesnt really give you a chance to succeed, and i am a pretty good student. Very unorganized and unprofessional. Very hard to relate to.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: A
Feb 2, 2017
Would take again

In my opinion, this isn't a class for everyone. If you are not an independent learner and expect to have a study guide for every single exams to pass this class is not for you. Will is a good story teller and very knowledgeable teacher, I highly recommend him for any students who major in History.

Respected
Get ready to read
Caring
5.0
4.0
ANTHR21
Grade: A+
May 18, 2017
Would take again

Will Spires is a real gem. He is caring, respectful, and a fabulous teacher & human. He is a fountain of knowledge, his lectures and outside readings are of great importance, relevancy, and extremely interesting. Ranging from magic to remote groups of people in Mexico, the class lectures will not bore you.

Amazing lectures
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: Not sure yet
May 26, 2017
Would take again

Spires is amazing! I didnt need to read the books he assigned word for word because listening to his lectures was like watching a show! So insightful and kind, ande he has deep respect for his students!! He will help you if you ask for it. I wish he taught more classes!

Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
4.0
ANTHRO21
Grade: A
May 30, 2017
Would take again

Plenty to read, stay on top of it. Extremely knowledgeable teacher- lecture heavy but very interesting. Show up to class and participate and you'll do fine.

Participation matters
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Amazing lectures
2.0
5.0
HISTORY172
Grade: C
Jun 5, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Not the friendliest guy.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
SO MANY PAPERS
2.0
5.0
HIST21
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He is very hard to listen to. If you like hearing the word uhhhhh every 2 seconds, you will love this class. I however could not stand the pain which lead me to drop the class after 3 weeks. I didnt care about the W, he was that bad.

5.0
1.0
HIST21
Jun 25, 2018
Would take again

Mr. Spires is such a great teacher. He is very helpful. If you want to review your paper before you turn it in, go to his office and he will give you good feedbacks and will help you a lot. He is very respectful with all his students. I would highly recommend this teacher.....

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
3.0
4.0
HIST21
Feb 27, 2019
Wouldn't take again

He's very passionate about this subject, but it isn't a class for everyone. I find it hard to stay attentive because his lectures are a bit over the place, and this class is very lecture based as opposed to reading. If you can get past his style of lecture and the stuttering, smacking of lips then this class will be a breeze.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
ANTHRO21
Apr 10, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Will Spires spends the majority of his class time with droning lectures. We only had two classes that weren't lectures. He failed me on the midterm because the instructions weren't clear, I'd done what I believed was the work, and he doesn't give clear instructions on homework. If he were the only teacher at the JC I'd drop out entitrely.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: Incomplete
Apr 25, 2019
Wouldn't take again

The teaching style does not appeal to the new upcoming young generation of kids. This teaching style did me wrong.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: A-
May 6, 2019
Would take again

Good, but his teaching methods are a little... very dated. Expect a lecture each class but do not rely on the powerpoint. Rely almost solely on his verbal lecture so pay attention. VERY strict on class behavior. (will kick you out for looking tired, and NO bathroom breaks). His feedback on your papers is pretty helpful though. I learned a lot.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
HIST172
Grade: C
Apr 30, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Don't take this class over summer, feels rushed. All I can say is three hours of boring lectures every class. Almost fell asleep bc all the lights are off and he just keeps talking. Pop quizzes!! You have to be super clear on the tests or he will dock points. He said come see him for help, he said to make flash cards .... no help! Good Luck!

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Lots of homework
4.0
4.0
HIST172
Grade: A
May 24, 2020
Would take again

Took summer class, fell asleep bc he turns the lights off. LISTEN! No info on his slides, he says all of the info. Grades very hard on papers, but if you take the time to study your notes you can pass his class. Rounds 88+ to A. If you're in the back on your laptop, he will ask if you are paying attention a lot. Very long lectures

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HIST171172
Grade: Rather not say
Jul 24, 2020
Wouldn't take again

This professors workload in this course was a nightmare and didn't have a good system. He constantly gave us long worded essays that were either at about 1200-2400 words depending on how many of the prompt does he want answered with limited time. He doesn't give you any homework nor extra credit in this course.

Lots of homework
So many papers
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HISTORY172
Grade: Rather not say
Jul 30, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Not only he's a horrible professor, but his feedback on essays is harsh in a rude way and doesn't give good feedback. When I emailed him about submitting my final prompts in text box and how it got lost, I immediately emailed him about it and his response was incredibly disrespectful and distasteful towards me . I didn't feel respected or helped.

So many papers
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
HIST21
Nov 11, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I really feel like he chose to disconnect from the class completely. He was over a week late to start the term. He assigned only reading & 4 papers on the text that were graded without any feedback while the class averages were slightly above 50%. Do not take if you want to be engaged by a prof who is passionate about their work and students.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: B+
Feb 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

LOTS of reading. And you only have 4 graded assignments, and all of them are essays. Very stressful, but gives very good feedback to help improve your grade.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
HIST172
Grade: A
Feb 18, 2021
Wouldn't take again

If you're taking this class online, please avoid Spires. I barely got anything out of this class. The only things that are graded are papers 1500 - 2000 words in length, and there were no live lectures. He did not interact with the class at all, and I was highly considering dropping, but I stayed to get the credit.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
So many papers
1.0
4.0
HIST21
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jun 7, 2021
Wouldn't take again

There were only 4 graded assignments, all long papers worth 100 points each. There was plenty of time in between due dates to do the reading and writing, but other than that, not much else went right. After having the first paper, one I felt fairly confident in, come back with a C, I knew I was better off dropping than trying to make this work.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
HIST172
Grade: B+
Aug 5, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This class is very challenging (especially online) because you are given little to no feedback on your work, as well as no guidance to the expectations of the midterms and finals until after the fact. Spires is a very hard grader and provides no instruction in his teaching - only gives you the readings and expects you to know what he's asking for.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
ANTH21
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 17, 2022

There is only four assignments for the whole semester and . 3 out of 4 of the assignments are essays ranging from 1,500- 2,000 words. He emails the prompts for the essays 3 days before the due date. Doesn't give much guidance on what we are learning and little to no instructions on midterms and finals. Very stressful

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
4.0
5.0
HISTORY172
Grade: A
Apr 28, 2023
Would take again

For those interested in dedicating plenty of their time to history, Spires is great. He is a hard grader and grades on a few essays (hist17.2). There is plenty of reading, so I recommend this class when you have a light schedule, or take it during the summer. Those uninterested in history and don't care much for the contents, Spires is not the best

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
HIST172
Grade: A
Jun 1, 2023
Would take again

I took this class online in the summer of 2022 and has a good experience. There were 3 big papers to write(2 midterms + final) and he gives you a couple days to complete them. Very consistent schedule and grading, and he gives good feedback on the papers. Make sure to read the content as it is up to you to know what you are writing about.

Get ready to read
Gives good feedback
1.0
5.0
HIST172
Grade: Not sure yet
Jul 4, 2023

As someone who had to take this class to graduate and is not extremely skilled in History I really struggled. His instructions were extremely short and unclear. Our entire class was based off on 3 tests. Additionally, he grades very harshly and has very high expectations after giving very little instruction. SO MUCH READING!!!!!!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
4.0
1.0
HIST172
Grade: A+
Nov 29, 2023
Would take again

Professor took lots of time to review and comment on work. This is a very easy class as long as you read the textbook and the lecture notes.

Get ready to read
Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
4.0
4.0
ANTH21
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2023
Would take again

I took this as an entirely asynchronous class. As such, I don't have much to say on the topic of actual lectures. He posts a lot of reading, and you are expected to do it all. There were 4 graded assignments in this semester, all essays. He grades very generously if you put in a reasonable effort.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
Accessible outside class
4.0
3.0
ANTH21
Grade: B
Apr 14, 2024
Would take again

Very interesting class, though I think he's better online. In person he's a little bit more of a rambler and a very slow talker but this doesn't come across online. There was a big project/paper at the end of the class but I actually found it enjoyable by the time we got there.

Respected
2.0
5.0
ANTH21
Grade: Not sure yet
May 13, 2024

he doesn't have notes to take on his slides it's just pictures while he does all the talking. If you ask a question he will either say I don't know, we already dug that garden, or it's in modules. In modules it's just pages and pages of reading that only has a small piece of what you really need. He says um after every word. Would not takethisclass

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
HIST172
Grade: B+
Dec 22, 2024
Would take again

Professor Spires' HIST172 class is challenging, but unstuck study helped me stay on top of the heavy reading load and prepare effectively for the exams. Engaging in class discussions was crucial to succeed.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

70%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 21 grades
Most common grades:
A (6)
B (3)
Not sure yet (3)
Grade Distribution
A(8)B(3)C(4)D(4)F(0)A-/B+(4)
Based on 30 reported grades
A: 6
B: 3
Not sure yet: 3
Rather not say: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (18)
Tough grader (13)
Lecture heavy (9)
Graded by few things (9)
Gives good feedback (4)
Tough Grader (3)
Skip class? You won't pass. (3)
LECTURE HEAVY (3)
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