Herman
E. Stark
Evidence of
Teaching Excellence
The following evidence consists of a
representative sample of written and numerical student evaluations. The written
evaluations are typed for your and my convenience. Photocopies of the original
handwritten comments and further information are available upon request.
Included below are four-week, eight-week, and sixteen week courses, as well as
large section (60 students), small section (6 students), day, evening-adult,
summer, and honors courses. ALL student comments for each course listed are
included!
Honors Philosophy, SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE
1). Without the lectures I would be lost in this course.
2). No other class has me telling everyone I know what I learned that day. Dr. Stark stresses the conciseness and brevity of writing, which is very important for every class and was not my strong suit upon entering his class. Dr. Stark is the best teacher I have had at SSC--they are lucky to have him. He teaches well and really makes us think. Everything he states is presented in a clear, logical manner and the class is always interesting and thought provoking.
3). I see him on a different level than any other teacher I've had. He is very intellectual, and it is obvious why he is the one teaching a class like this. I liked his "scenarios" and stories of his childhood. I don't think I could pass the class without going to his lectures. If you were in class and paid attention, the exams are no problem to pass. This class made me think! Thanks for the interesting class! I'll never forget it!
4). Dr. Stark's poems and stories always cut to the heart of the matter. This course has led to an improvement of my soul. Dr. Stark is appreciated and will be missed.
5). Professor Stark's class and teaching style made learning about philosophy a worthwhile experience. I would recommend to everyone I know take this course and experience what a good learning experience is.
6). Dr. Stark provides numerous examples to help express the ideas presented in this course. Most teachers will give an assignment or will write something on a chalkboard. Dr. Stark questions just about everything.
7). To read the material on one's own was sometimes difficult. The instructor was needed and then the reading became clearer. I was mesmerized and could hardly wait til I got to class. The class was fascinating, I would like to take another one with the instructor.
8). Funny personal stories with a lot of underlying meaning. I would never understand the text material without his explaining.
9). I think the exams should be longer and the grading slightly less strict.
10). The course and lectures are not so structured that he is afraid to go off the topic when a student asks a question, which I think is good.
11). This is the only instructor that has been more challenging than my high school teachers.
12). He seems to thrive on teaching and transfers his passion for the subject into his students.
13). This
class is run the way it is seen on movies from "Ivy League" schools.
Logic, SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE
1). This course was somewhat difficult and required large amounts of critical thinking. I learned valuable tools for proving the validity of statements and arguments. More tests or quizzes or grades on homework might be a suggestion, although this was only a summer course.
2). About the course: Fantastically well-taught. (There needs to be more philosophy classes offered). About the instructor: This puny sheet isn't enough. Someday I will write the novel "The Good Dr. Stark".
3). I really enjoyed having Dr. Stark as a professor for these eight weeks. Of the four instructors I have had at South Suburban, he is by far the most intelligent one. I didn't expect such a sharp teacher to be at a community college, but it definitely increases my respect for this school.
4). I enjoyed this course abundantly. The only fault I can find with the course is the testing procedure. Personally I did not like that the tests were only ten questions, but the tests were worth 100 points. Otherwise, I enjoy bothering my family and friends with my new found logic.
5). Dr. Stark, once again you've made philosophy a fun course. I define logic as "thought-provoking." I learned a lot and had fun. Too bad I won't see you next semester. Thank you for teaching me.
6). Good job.
7). You are an extremely talented individual who respects and is respected. Thank you for an interesting semester.
8). The logic course was an excellent way to understand conversation in a different light. But during the course I found that I didn't agree with it. It is true that it will help understand and figure out complex things but it does not appeal to emotion. Most people do not talk in a logical manner, but in an emotional manner. Logic is unsympathetic towards people's emotions. (Is that a fallacy?)
9). This is my second course taught by Dr. Stark and again, I am astonished by the sheer scope of the coursework. I'm also surprised that I actually feel I could use any of the material in "real life". I look forward to other courses offered by Dr. Stark. I find myself trying to come up with reasons I need another philosophy course. The scariest reason I've thought of so far is that maybe I should major in philosophy.
10). Dr. Stark is an excellent teacher. I've never learned so much in a short period of time. He makes time for his students.
11). Basically, the classes I took of yours have been the best classes I have ever had. The type of material being taught is just the type of material I want to learn. At times it is tough, but I believe your teaching ways have made it easy for me to remember the material. I took all the philosophy classes SSC has to offer and they all were great. Thanks for the fun with learning.
12). The only
reason I'm not getting an A is my own lack of studying. The teacher was
wonderful and this class was enjoyable.
Ethics, SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE
1). I enjoyed Dr. Stark's class very much. This is probably the only class I ever took that I looked forward to the lectures.
2). I find it amazing how you can recite poems, stories and clear-cut examples off the top of your head. This class was one of the most interesting I've had. I'm glad I took it.
3). I have learned more about life and rational thinking in this course than any previous college course.
4). Instead of grading sections of the test with a specific letter grade, I would have liked for the test to be graded on a points system. I believe this would have enabled me to get an A out of this class.
5). Excellent class, I only wish I could enroll in additional classes taught by Dr. Stark. I hope at the university level I can encounter a teacher that is equally thought-provoking. Dr. Stark is a teacher who I will always remember for enhancing my ability to think.
6). I really enjoyed this course--it was very interesting and really made me think.
7). There are aspects of this course I enjoyed. It made me put effort into something so simple. Though this was my first class with Dr. Stark, I enjoyed it and want to enroll in the fall.
8). I do not agree with the instructor on how he grades tests. He should grade the substance and not how it is written. If you do not label or put in paragraph form it is marked wrong.
9). This course has been very interesting. It has made me want to come to class. I don't think I've ever had to think so much in a class before. But that's good; now I know my mind isn't going to waste. Dr. Stark is a very good teacher, however, sometimes he seems to be a little arrogant in a way. But he definitely knows what he is talking about.
10). Dr. Stark is an excellent instructor of philosophy and ethics. He cares about his students regarding their learning needs and desires. I can only say that I hope for future students he does not change his style of teaching. He is very interesting to listen to and learn from.
11). Eliminate the Rachels' book, put more emphasis on the War and Existence book, and bring in some Kant. Then this class will be morally good.
12). You are the best teacher I have had so far in any of my college days so far, high school days too. This class is the type of class I've been looking forward to taking. Compared to all the other fools that teach at this college you are the only one who isn't and in my book rank #1 out of anybody in this school, even the ones who have been here since the school opened. Thanks for being such a good teacher!
13). As a student in Dr. Stark's ethics class, I feel that it has definitely been a fantastic learning experience. Dr. Stark's lectures are very interesting and stirring. I find his class has made me more thirsty for knowledge than any other instructor I have had at South Suburban.
14). I've been inspired by this course in the sense of truly reflecting on issues of morality, responsibility, duty, loyalty, etc. The issue of existence and "who I am" is really thought-provoking. I leave this course with thoughts of looking at things differently. Thank you.
15). Main complaint is lack of classes taught. I've seen logic taught on a normal basis and other philosophy classes elsewhere but I am skeptical to take them because I enjoy his style. Show me a teacher with the same if not more knowledge/wisdom and I will show you another student for enrollment. Question 10 should be phrased as "top teacher" instead of "top three".
16). I often found it hard to feel the flow in a class. However this class was superb. I learned a lot about myself I didn't know before.
17). Dr. Stark is the type of instructor that I wish I would have had throughout my entire educational life. He is so understandable. He will not go on to another topic unless he is very sure that everyone understands him. Even though I am going to another college next semester I wish Dr. Stark could go with me. He has been a great influence on my life and the way I view my life. He has made my thought on life so positive. When I think, I think with certainty and reason. Before I would say whatever came to my mind. Thanks Dr. Stark.
18). Extremely thought-provoking class. It is by far the best class I have taken here at SSC. Dr. Stark is also the best instructor I have had for a long time. I wish all my instructors were the same. I plan to take more of Dr. Stark's courses.
19). Dr. Stark has always been respectful, considerate of the students. Dr. Stark is an extremely gifted, most brilliant instructor I have had the opportunity to learn from.
20). I enjoyed this class. This is the 3rd class I've taken here at SSC and this is the best. Dr. Stark is a very intelligent man. He possess knowledge that exceeds philosophy. I love his stories--they brought more to the class.
21). This class has been thought-provoking, well-taught, organized, stimulating and a challenge. I've learned a great deal about myself and my existence here on earth. I enjoy this class and look forward to enrolling in other classes taught by Dr. Stark. He is by far one of the top teachers (probably #1) that I've ever had the pleasure to be taught by.
22). Dr.
Stark is one of the most interesting teachers I've ever had. He brings things
up that are forgotten in today's world. People don't realize how significant
certain poems, events, and books are because everyone is too busy. I would like
to thank him for reminding me of these things.
World Religions, SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE
1). This class was very interesting and thought-provoking. I don't know of anyone who could have taught it better. Thank you.
2). Best class I have ever taken.
3). This class was very intriguing and thought-provoking. This class aided me in explaining to others why I "believe" a certain concept.
4). How about changing question number 10 to "...ranks among the best..."? If there were other teachers of this caliber throughout the different classes across the nation, the nation as a whole would be in better shape.
5). In my
collegiate classes I have learned many "facts" or data, most of which
I do not remember once I have left the class. This class was truly enjoyable,
and to me that is the essence of learning. Enjoyment helps retention of
what I learned. Thank you.
Introduction to Philosophy, SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE
1). You are an excellent teacher and the way you lay out and present your material is not boring like other teachers, it's interesting. I like to think a lot about things that take thought and your teaching style makes me think even more. You're not like any teacher I have ever had, your personal experiences go with the lesson and help immensely. Your manner is exceptionally collegiate, at first I thought of you as a total intellect, but as we got to know you and vice-versa the true person and attitudes came out for the better. The best class/teacher I have ever had and probably will. He teaches with precision and accuracy.
2). He is a very interesting and intelligent man. What more do you need?
3). I don't like the long reading. The part of the course that impressed me the most is that things were questioned that I have questioned for a long time. The instructor should continue to challenge people to think logically.
4). I am very happy with Dr. Stark's teaching of philosophy. I can honestly say that I never, in my educational career, ever had a teacher as dedicated or moving. I love this class and what I have learned will live with me forever. For the most part everything in this course I find fascinating. Most of the concepts I have thought about before but never in such great detail. But I can say that I found Aristotle a bit dull.
5). Most courses are lecture straight from the book. This course has the professor go outside the book. He always brought forth a professional manner in class--this is well-appreciated. On the last day of class the instructor should talk of himself.
6). He goes over important material from previous classes at the beginning of each period, making it easier to remember. This is a class like no other class I've had before. Lectures are very good and useful. There is no problem, if you go to class, in passing. I don't like that he calls on people all the time.
7). Sometimes the instructor can get monotone and this can make me lose my attention. He goes over everything sufficiently and keeps the class interesting. I like his sense of humor.
8). Without him, I would not take another philosophy class. His style nears the edge of perfection. Make the class a year long, so that we could cover more things completely.
9). There isn't anything I don't like about Dr. Stark's teaching, only that at first I was very scared of him. I am so impressed about the way he thinks that I often wonder about his personal life. If he is married what kind of conversation would he have with his wife? Dr. Stark hates television--what does he do--read all the time?!
10). Dr. Stark could make an idiot understand philosophy. This course should be required in the curriculum. I've spoken to him many times after class for greater understanding of the material. Dr. Stark should be teaching at a school where he would be more appreciated: Harvard, Stanford, Cornell.
11). I love the fact that he goes over things one at a time. I took this class before and dropped it because my professor did not challenge me.
12). This course is an experience that I will both treasure and never forget. Although I may not agree with some of the topics discussed, I still find that I have great respect for arguments that the philosophers gave. In this particular class I feel like I'm actually sitting and listening to these long dead philosophers.
13). Occasionally he may want to try to bring his level of thinking down to ours only in order to understand a question that we may ask. This is my favorite class. It was very well taught. I feel that I've actually learned and am able to think more on my own. The material is interesting on its own but I do think that the intelligent witty instructor I had made all the difference.
RESULTS OF STUDENT EVALUATIONS OF COURSE AND INSTRUCTOR
South Suburban College
Course instructor: Dr. Herman E. Stark
Course title: Introduction to Philosophy
Total Responses: 23
1) The lectures are coherent.
a) Yes 95%
b) No
2) The course has required you to learn how to write self-standing essays.
a) Yes 86%
b) No
3) The demands for rational reflection in this course are greater than those in your other collegiate courses.
a) Yes 95%
b) No
4) You are earning an A in this course.
a) Yes 26%
b) No
5) The instructor behaves professionally (civilly).
a) Yes 100%
b) No
6) The instructor uses examples that are intrinsically interesting.
a) Yes 91%
b) No
7) The instructor's in-class teaching is vitally important for mastering the course material and skills.
a) Yes 100%
b) No
8) The instructor instills a respect for discussion centered on the giving and assessing of reasons.
a) Yes 100%
b) No
9) The instructor, in comparison to your other collegiate instructors, is more thought-provoking.
a) Yes 100%
b) No
10) The instructor is the best teacher of your collegiate career.
a) Yes 56%
b) No
Contemporary Moral Issues, NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
1). Herman Stark was probably the most influential teacher that I have had throughout my academic career.
2). I will be taking Mr. Stark's logic course next semester and I cannot wait. I hope it is just as good as this course.
3). I thought Mr. Stark did a marvelous job with this class. It shows when the instructor is actually interested and passionate about what he is teaching and it definitely generates interest in the subjects.
4). I loved this class; too bad it's not my major. Thanks for the semester and making me think.
5). Instructor Stark has a remarkable and humorous way of getting his point across to the students. My thanks to him, I enjoyed the class a lot. P.S. This is irrelevant but Instructor Stark belongs on the cover of G.Q. Is a very snazzy dresser! Smart and philosophical too!
6). I really enjoyed this class. It made me think about what we studied, and it wasn't just a textbook course. I like a challenge and this course was one, so I thought it was great. Thank you for making this class interesting.
7). When I signed up for this class, I was prepared to offend and outrage the mindless majority with my views. Stark, however, made me realize a great deal of things. His explanations, views, and reasons were incredible. I have never been so impressed with an instructor as I have been with Stark. I regret only that I may never get to take a class this stimulating and thought-provoking again. I can honestly say that the professor has changed how I view the world. I am thankful. P.S. I lived for those under-the-breath comments, ripping on things that I have wanted professors to rip on for years.
8). He was a very smart man who knew what he was teaching and talking about.
9). Mr. Stark is an excellent teacher. I liked him because he actually cares about what he is teaching. See ya next semester in logic.
10). Very interesting teacher/man. He made me think carefully.
11). I was really impressed with the manner in which Stark lectured. He explained the material clearly.
12). Overall, I felt Prof. Stark was a good teacher/instructor
13). Great teacher. I like how he relates everyday things to this class.
14). Best instructor I had so far.
15). Great professor. One of the best.
16). Great class. Herman Stark is a philosophical demi-god.
17). My favorite class ever. But I am only a freshman. Teacher was really good.
18). I loved this class! Professor Stark is an excellent teacher that makes the class enjoyable and interesting. He uses relevant examples to explain theories. I would definitely take a class with Professor Stark again. I have just one question--was the parent's decision in the Baby Jane Doe case moral or not?
19). I really enjoyed the course and the
instructor. His method of teaching was very effective--I liked his sincere
interest for the material he covered. The way he referred to his students
during lecture and the way he questioned their views was an excellent touch. He
is young and enthusiastic in his teaching and the way he refers to things most
college students can relate to make him a great teacher. He was a marvelous
teacher.
Introduction to Logic, NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
1). You're a smart man.
2). Excellent instructor. Draws in students well to material.
3). This class has been really interesting. It's the only class I have never missed (since perhaps first grade!).
4). Very good, interesting class. I learned more in this class than any other course throughout my education. Thank you for a great class.
5). Needs to spend more time on basic explanation of subjects, instead of assuming everyone knows as much as he does on the matter.
6). I believe Mr. Stark is an excellent teacher of philosophy and an excellent teacher in general. I only wish he taught more than Logic and Contemporary Moral Issues. I have taken both of those courses when he taught them. I want him for a teacher in another course.
7). I think that you are the greatest teacher that I ever had. Too bad you're not teaching next year because I need to take Logic 350. I have learned the most in this and last semester, so thank you for everything. Good luck on your next job.
8). The professor has great teaching abilities. He presents class material in a very structured manner, making it easier for students to comprehend. I would definitely be inclined to take more classes taught by Professor Stark. P.S. I did not send you the chalk!
9). Proofs constituted a significantly more difficult section of the course material. In my case, although I may have been more prepared, this section virtually took me out of contention for the coveted "A" I was expecting. Perhaps other factors or assignments could be offered to offset the increased difficulty of this one section.
10). Needs to make the subject more interesting by not making it too complicated by complicated words and relating more to the students.
11). I felt Prof. Stark used his combo. of witty humor and intelligence to teach and make his students learn.
12). Prof. Stark is one of the best professors, teachingwise, that I've had in college.
13). Very intelligent and humorous man. I enjoyed
coming to his class.
Historical Introduction to Philosophy, SHELBY STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
1). Very good class. Interesting teacher. Dedicated to education. Willing and able to share knowledge. I enjoyed and learned very much from this class and this teacher.
2). Thank you for the semester.
3). He is an excellent and fair teacher. He has a lot of knowledge of each subject we talked about. He seems to love philosophy; therefore, he makes his students enjoy the class. SSCC has a great teacher in Mr. Stark.
4). I really enjoyed the class. Mr. Stark has a feel for philosophy. I will definitely recommend him to students.
5). Mr. Stark was incredibly enthusiastic over the subject matter. He made a boring class interesting. I would recommend him to anyone taking philosophy. Thanks for a great semester.
6). This class was very enjoyable. I believe I have gained a better understanding of myself through this as well as some major philosophers' literature. Very well taught!
7). Thank you for the semester, for the stimulation.
8). Thanks, because I couldn't have made it
through philosophy without a professor like you. I appreciated the fact that at
the beginning you were nice enough to try to get the class re-enrolled on your
own time. Not many teachers would have done that.
Classical Issues in Philosophy, THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
1). I enjoyed the course and the instructor. One of the best instructors I have encountered in my 4 year college term.
2). The class was taught in a very logical and organized manner and proved to be more interesting than I thought it would be. You're a good teacher, very well informed. You made learning about what some old dead Greek guys had to say better than I thought it would be.
3). I was very pleased with the way Mr. Stark taught the class. I have been at MSU for 4 years and Mr. Stark is one of the best teachers I have had.
4). He is very energetic and enthusiastic about the material. At times, the material was dry, but he made it as interesting as possible. He also made me think. I really enjoyed this course.
5). I enjoyed having an instructor that was more interested in his students learning something than forcing all the material. The course could have more writing required.
6). Professor Stark is passionate about teaching philosophy. He challenged students to think. His knowledge of history, languages and literature gave us additional examples in which to understand the issues we were contemplating. Thank you for a challenging and thought provoking study of philosophy.
7). He is competent in this subject. Stark is very condescending in his manner of speaking. All too often I felt like an idiot--like I wasn't worthy of existing. He needs an attitude adjustment--he is too egotistical. I never felt comfortable in his class. I never felt secure enough to ask questions or be able to respond to questions he posed. His overall attitude was that of extreme superiority.
8). Very interested in course material and made it more fun for students through various examples related to philosophy. A very good teacher!
9). You were very susceptible to others thoughts and ideas and encouraged the class to express what they thought. Spend more time with the Nicomachean Ethics--it was interesting.
10). Teacher was very competent in this course. Course material was too deep.
11). Prof. Stark is a good teacher and very concerned about us learning the material. Sometimes I found him intimidating and condescending, but I don't think he did it intentionally.
12). I was into this class more than any of my others.
13). The course was well planned and put together in a good fashion. You were able to explain things in a way that was easy to understand. Be careful as to comments about other majors in the university, i.e., negative comments about the Communications department.
14). Very well organized and prepared. I feel that the instructor had a personality bias when grading the exams. After an incident involving the instructor I compared an exam to that of another student and found a high degree of grading variation for the same answers. I feel that is very unfair, and that students should be graded on course material, not outside circumstances.
15). This instructor is a "thinker", highly intelligent, and an excellent teacher. The class taught me so much. No criticisms.
16). Very enthusiastic, enjoyed teaching and
interacting with the class. Great teacher.
Logic, THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
1). Knowledgeable, good sense of humor, enthusiastic, love of subject matter, educates students in broad areas not directly related to course. One of the best.
2). Pretty dang tough in the middle of the course but an excellent teacher overall. If I was any good at this, I'd take him every time. At job, grant tenure ASAP.
3). Stark is a good teacher. Keep up the good work. Good Luck!
4). Very enthusiastic, caring about students. Learned names, related very well. Available for personal help. Open to study groups.
5). P v ~P. I agree that the good stuff (fallacies) was at the end.
6). He was concerned about how we did in class and held study sessions outside of class to help make sure we understood. Get rid of the book, very hard to read and understand.
7). Perfect! No improvement is needed.
8). Energetic speaker, relaxed classroom atmosphere. This was one of the most useful courses I have taken since high school. Continue.