Political ideas, institutions, and processes of American government. The role of congress and the president in policy formation and of the supreme court in interpreting the constitution.
4
UnitsOptional
Grading1
PasstimeNone
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeProf Nall doesn't seem to like teaching, and definitely doesn't like students. He's condescending, he's mean, and makes fun of you for asking a question. He won't allow computers in class, even for note taking. He seems angry all the time.
I took POLS12 last year and it was tough! For a lower division prerequisite course, this class was unnecessarily difficult. Lots of reading from two required textbooks (about 1-2 long, multi-sectional chapters) for each class. Lectures are good but he only pulls from the readings for tests which are extremely nit-picky and specific. Wouldn't retake
Two midterms, a final, and quizzes. There are tons of readings to keep up with. The exams are crazy difficult but he curves.
Its one of the hardest classes ive had at ucsb, but I learned a lot and he's a good teacher. very hard class though, tests are really hard, ive managed to get As on them by putting in hours into the textbook and making insane notes for the tests (ahead of time keeping up with readings). might be in some bureaucratic lawyer cult but overall cool.
Took this for a pre-req for
His tests are needlessly difficult, but even with a C average on the tests, I still managed to get an A- because of writing assignments and participation. He's got a bit of an ego and will ridicule students for expressing different opinions from his, but if you have a well formed factual argument, he will show more respect. Cares about his students