[ENAM 0204]
Foundations of English Literature

Rate This Class

Professor: Billings

Value of Course / Overall Score

Not Much (12.5%
Average (25%)
Valuable (62.5%)

Material

Friendly (25%)
Average (25%)
Competitive (50%)

Class Atmosphere

Boring (62.5%)
Average (37.5%)
Fascinating (0%)

Prep Time Needed

1-2hr (0%)
3-5hr (50%)
6-8hr (50%)
9-11hr (0%)
12+ hr (0%)

Grade Weighting

Harder (12.5%)
Average (25%)
Easier (62.5%)

Adequate Assistance

Yes (87.5%)
No (12.5%)

Would Recommend Class

Yes (62.5%)
No (37.5%)

Evaluation Comments for Billings

  1. I thought the previus comments were exagerated. Professor Billings can be capricious, and sometimes his written and oral comments are less than sensitive. I also feel that he is influenced by his opinion of his students, which is impossible to entirely avoid. But he can certainly be very friendly and interesting.
  2. Take a class from Professor Billings before you graduate or you'll regret it.
  3. Although the subject matter for this class was interesting enough the professor gave mediocore explanations and was less interested in teaching and more interested in attending academic conferences to further his career while we the students were left to teach ourselves. A classic case of the blind leading the blind. His remarks on various students papers were condescending and inappropriate. When confronted regarding the validity of his grading methods the professor became indignant and was not accommodating in any manner. It is a travesty that such an individual is allowed to teach at Middlebury when he obviously puts career ahead of the needs of his students.
  4. Pretty boring.
  5. If you get on his good side, the class is super easy. I wrote my final paper the day before and still ended up with an A. I appreciate the fact that Billings doesn't let bullshit go by. I got the sense that he was winging some lectures.
  6. I love Professor Billings. He is an engaging lecturer and really knowledgeable. He may seem intimidating because he doesn't let students bullshit their way through class, but you prepare for the class and speak thoughtfully (rather than just to hear yourself talk) you'll have no problem. He gets a little political about certain department issues but since I agree with most of what he says it doesn't bother me.
  7. It is unfortunate that the previous recommendation (or lack there of) was posted concerning this class because I strongly and adamantly disagree with this person?s view. This is certainly a very unfair and perhaps bitter remark against one of Middlebury?s finest professors. As a senior English major, I must first of all comment that if one ever has the privilege to take a course with Professor Billings, it will be one of the most memorable and academically inspiring courses that he or she will ever encounter. Not only is Professor Billings academically brilliant, but his lectures are captivating, no matter what the subject topic. He is extremely knowledgeable in all areas that he teaches, and discussion sections are always alive in a very relaxed, nurturing environment. Professor Billings is extremely supportive of all of his students, encouraging out of class discussion in his office hours. I would also argue that his fairness in grading is unmatched, and my only assumption would be that the previous post came from a student who was clearly not fully engaged in the class. It is unfortunate that names and contact information are left un-posted on this page, as it makes it quite easy to leave unjustified responses. Therefore, I have added my contact information below and would be more than willing to speak to anyone who is considering taking this course or any other by Professor Billings. -Beth Schmidt ?06 email: [email protected]
  8. I also do not agree with the first comment. Billings is one of my favorite professors. He is friendly, relaxed, and encourages students to push their thinking to a new level. he's engaging and knowledgeable in lectures. also, he's willing to interact with students outside of class and gets to know his students very well. all in all, a great professor, and a great class.

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My Evaluation of Foundations of English Literature by Billings

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