Professor: Poland Course format: Seminar Number of respondents: 20 Total Enrollment: 21 Class Composition: Froshs: 0 Sophs: 0 Jrs: 7 Srs: 14 Concs: 14 Non-Concs: 6 Don't Know: 0

Instructor Average: 1.85 Course Average: 1.66

The goal of Professor Poland's "Controversial Issues in Mental Health Practices" was to identify and discuss current controversies in the field of mental health treatment. Topics ranged from the validity of DSM criteria to the use of medication for ADHD. Most respondents recommended having had at least one course in ethics, as well as a basic knowledge of biology and psychology, although a few felt that no particular background seemed to be necessary.

Students described Professor Poland as extremely knowledgeable, kind and flexible. They were impressed with his thoroughness, although some mentioned that at times he seemed to get carried away with the topic, which lead to lectures that most felt were a bit too long for a seminar. Overall, students felt that Professor Poland did an excellent job at taking their needs into account, which was something they greatly appreciated. Students less comfortable with speaking in class were especially grateful that equal weight was given to posting on the WebCT discussion board.

The course work consisted of a weekly response paper of one to two pages based on the readings, a group presentation and paper, three discussion board exercises and a final 10-12 page paper. Students felt that all the readings were useful, although they felt that the most interesting part of the class were the group presentations.

Survey respondents spent an average of two to five hours per week on work for this class, an amount that matched their expectations. Respondents recommended the class for all interested in the topic, especially those who enjoy participating in heated discussions.

View BE/0150 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.