How to Evaluate a Professor Before Taking Their Class

Choosing the right professor can significantly impact your academic experience and success in college or university-level classes. Here are several strategies you can use to assess a professor's effectiveness and suitability before enrolling in their course.

Seek Feedback from Current and Previous Students

One of the most reliable ways to gauge a professor's performance is to speak with current and past students who have already taken their courses. These direct experiences offer valuable insights into the professor's teaching style and the overall class experience. You might inquired about their grading fairness, ability to explain complex concepts, overall class atmosphere, and the efficacy of the professor in promoting student engagement.

If you measure the professor’s success based on student outcomes, you can also ask about the pass rates, course completion rates, and other metrics provided by the university or college. While subjective, these metrics can give you an idea of the professor's ability to facilitate student success.

Utilize Rate My Professors

Rate My Professors is a popular website that aggregates student reviews of professors across various institutions. These reviews can provide a broader perspective on a professor's teaching style, workload, and overall experience. Be sure to read numerous reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the professor's strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, you can find out if the professor has strong or weak points in different aspects of teaching, such as ease of understanding, ability to answer questions, and class atmosphere.

Understand Teaching Philosophies

While not always readily available, professors at most institutions are required to submit a Teaching Philosophy statement. This document provides insight into their approach to teaching, what they consider most important in their role as an instructor, and their views on student learning and development. For example, a professor with a student-centered philosophy might emphasize creating a supportive learning environment, while another with a subject-focused approach might prioritize the detailed explanation of complex topics. Examining the professor's teaching philosophy can help you determine if their methods align with your learning objectives and preferences.

Be Cautious of Generalized Evaluations

Keep in mind that all professors receive a mix of positive and negative feedback from students. Some professors might have significant backlash from a minority of students, while still receiving praise from the majority. Similarly, a highly respected professor can alienate a few students due to their strict methods or high standards.

Instead of looking for overarching labels like "good" or "bad," focus on specific aspects of the professor's teaching. Ask about:

Clarity in explanations Availability and willingness to answer questions Knowledge of the subject matter Collaborative learning environment

If you are primarily seeking a satisfactory grade rather than the most challenging or engaging learning experience, some aspects of a professor's teaching style may be less important to you. However, if your primary goal is to learn and gain a deep understanding of the subject, these characteristics become crucial.

Conclusion

In summary, thorough evaluation of a professor involves soliciting feedback from various sources, understanding their teaching philosophy, and focusing on specific attributes. By employing these strategies, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your learning goals and enhances your academic journey.