Students praised this course for covering an interesting topic and for having an engaging instructor who was described as the “gem of the history department.” Perceived issues with the course included a belief from some students that the course could be improved if students’ grades didn’t depend on a few make-or-break assignments but instead there were more graded exercises. Likewise, suggestions for improvement included a desire by multiple students that the instructor increase the number of graded assignments in the course so students would have additional opportunities to show the knowledge they’ve gained. Prospective students should know that students found the course didn’t require any prior knowledge of history, although students found the course had a lot of reading.

168 The best aspects of this course included the fascinating material discussed and the seminar-style format. Students also appreciated the instructor’s encouragement, sense of humor, and enthusiasm on the subject. Some of the students felt that the readings were pedantic and abstract, and that because 60% of their final grade relied on one essay, they should have been given feedback earlier/as soon as possible. Suggestions included providing students with more indication of his/her progress, lightening the reading load, and utilizing more visual aids during the lecture. Prospective students should be prepared to commit a lot of time to reading and to participate as a large percentage of one’s final grade depends on it.