[{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMjAwNTAx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-05-27 22:09:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"I'm a software dev now. This was the most worthwhile class I took at UW. The lectures and reading are tedious but I apply them in my work every day. It is one of those classes where you get what you put in. Scott isn't even really mean, just don't take it personally and read the syllabus before asking course questions. One of my fav profs for sure.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMDU2NTE0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-05-07 04:56:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Literally just rants half the time. Lectures are pointless and have no substance, literally just him ranting about whatever side tangent comes across his mind. Somehow we got to the topic of Rome on the last day? Class was only useful because of the group project. The lectures were just me and my group members trying not to laugh at him","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMDU1MTgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-05-07 02:54:17 +0000 UTC","comment":" I would only take the class again because its such an easy A.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyNjMzODc3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-04-21 20:24:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"Idc what the other comments say. I reserved a time slot for the practical and accidentally missed it. He still let me take it later that day. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyODAzODcz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-04-09 05:03:10 +0000 UTC","comment":"The course lacks structured teaching, and most of the learning is self-directed. Lectures did not add much value, and it was difficult to gain a clear understanding of core software engineering concepts. I would not recommend this course if you are looking for guided instruction.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyNjY5NTU4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-03-05 15:53:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"I truly wish uw would find someone to take his place. Class was easy but dealing with him was not. He fuels himself by humiliating students. I took this class a year ago and things he said to me still stick with me and ruin my confidence now that I'm in the workforce. I genuinely regret taking this class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyNjQ2MzIz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2026-02-26 04:22:08 +0000 UTC","comment":"This professor is one of the professors. He'll spend lectures ranting than caring about his students learning. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzA2Mjg0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-10-10 19:48:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Zero practical technical teaching. We spent more time discussing his high opinion of himself and his \"other-worldly\" view than software. Between the useless readings and the ridiculously short, useless tutorials, this course is a massive waste of time. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzA2Mjgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-10-10 19:47:55 +0000 UTC","comment":"Attendance is mandatory, and his convoluted policies are traps, not aids. Grading is purely subjective; he will deduct points for simply \"not paying attention,\" reflecting his need for unquestioning deference and control.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzA2Mjc3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-10-10 19:46:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"The in-class \"tutorials\" are a joke—too short to download, debug, or actually learn anything. The frantic pace and lack of wiggle room for technical issues ensure that anyone not instantly perfect is left hopelessly behind. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzA2Mjcy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-10-10 19:45:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"This isn't software engineering; it's a philosophy seminar. He rambles endlessly on personal anecdotes and useless readings, never teaching actual frameworks or tech stacks. I've learned nothing practical and will have to self-teach everything.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMTM4MDQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-05-02 20:47:11 +0000 UTC","comment":"Took 506 in spring 2025 and has been the best CS class I have taken in terms of practically preparing you for industry. Topics are the basis of being a SWE and the group project allows you to get experience dealing with real issues. I've never been once bored in a lecture and is by far the most engaging cs professor I have had.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwOTc2NzU4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-04-18 16:32:24 +0000 UTC","comment":"This class is supposed to simulate a SWE work environment, but the only thing it prepares you for is dealing with a narcissistic man with a short fuse. He acts like an awful boss, not your professor. I'm genuinely concerned on how he is still allowed to teach after all of these bad reviews and many complaints to the department. Do better Madison.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNDk2Nzc5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2025-01-07 02:29:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Awful. Class in itself isn't hard, it's mostly there to teach working in a SWE team. However, Swanson is not likable and very full of himself as a person; which is a shame given that there are interesting ideas in the material. Reading quizzes grading and course logistics are a pain. Took it with 5 other advanced ECE courses and 506 was my busiest.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwMTkwODE2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-12-10 06:00:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Well........","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5NTE0MDUy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-05-23 20:40:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"Trash","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MzgxNjYy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-05-06 20:43:46 +0000 UTC","comment":"I'll be blunt, his class is poorly designed to instruct students through a software engineering career. First, his lectures are mandatory and a waste of time. Second, he doesn't even discuss the readings. Finally, the final is unnecessarily long. There is too much writing involved in the process and so many questions to answer. UNREASONABLE.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDMxODEx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-03-07 14:24:29 +0000 UTC","comment":"- Huge passion for software engineering. Very opinionated on lots of things-makes it all the more engaging\n- Clearly teaches material in meaningful way\n- Utilizes past semesters of feedback to make best possible experience for current students\n- Open to feedback and will give detailed explanations for any questions asked\n- Great sense of humor too!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDI3ODUx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-03-06 05:13:02 +0000 UTC","comment":"hilarious...ly bad ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDI3Njk5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-03-06 04:29:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"Class is poorly organized. \nThere are so many different grading schemes and they are all so complicated and make no sense. \nScott is rude. If you ask him questions (which you will definitely have a lot of), expect a passive aggressive response that does not address your question. \nAVOID AT ALL COSTS FOR YOUR OWN SANITY.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDI3Njc3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-03-06 04:22:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"I've never posted a review before but experiencing Swanson made me feel like it's a human right to warn others. DO NOT I repeat DO NOT take his classes if you want to feel sane. His lectures are filled with the most useless stories that he thinks are funny and he is VERY PASSIVE AGGRESSIVE when you ask questions. HE IS SO MEAN FOR NO REASON.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDE2Nzk0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-03-02 01:10:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"A poorly organized class and professor that fails to effectively teach anything :/","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDE1NTkz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-03-01 17:45:05 +0000 UTC","comment":"no","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4OTkwNzk2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2024-02-21 18:38:00 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hard professor, get ready to read.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4ODA0NzM4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-12-28 18:45:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"You get out what you put in. His lectures and the class are pretty unorganized, but the point of the class is to simulate being a SWE and figuring things out yourself. He won't force you to learn so you can coast if you want, or bc he and the TA's are VERY knowledgeable, you can learn a ton. If you have a bit of independence this class is great","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NzQ3OTI1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-12-19 23:17:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"Worst cs professor in existence. Didn't put grades in at all until a couple days before the final. Easy class though, I just don't think it's worth your sanity. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4Njk1NzU2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-12-15 21:07:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"Worst CS class I've ever taken during four years at UW-Madison.\nEXTREMELY unorganized course structure. TAs were clueless to respond to questions.\nThe contents were extremely easy. \n\nThe trick to earn a score above 100%?\n\nLie about numbers on how many hours of effort you put into the report and you will get an A+.\n\nIf you don't? Good luck!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MzM2MjU5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-11-03 01:40:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"If I could give him a zero I would. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTYxMjI3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-19 18:44:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"The content being taught isn't difficult. I'm not sure if this is a newer course that he is teaching and that's why things seemed disorganized but overall it really isn't a hard class. It definitely could be a lot better but it isn't as bad as the others make it seem. I barely tried and got a B.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTYwNjI3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-19 17:10:19 +0000 UTC","comment":"Horrible. This class has no grading scheme. Up until and including the day of the final, we did not know what our final grade standing was. The TA told me I was doing very well in the class and I still ended up with a B? HOW?? Avoid at all costs. Both the professor and the class are horrible.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTQzNjY0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-17 09:42:10 +0000 UTC","comment":"Life is hard in CS, Scott makes it even harder. I always hated going to his class but I had to. He'll put deadline in morning and expect us to work by evening. His long rants about his own philosophy makes me cry! ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTM5MTUw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-16 21:40:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"if you have scholastic anxiety, maybe not the best class/prof for you. If you want to work in an agile team on a software project, take this class. Scott is very smart, entertaining, and caring. He can be disorganized, but he will only get better as he teaches this class more. Very easy A if you simply show up to class and dont ghost your teammates","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTMyNjM3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-16 02:48:39 +0000 UTC","comment":"Absolute mess. Scott will give a 10hr lecture on Jimmy Page but wont use Canvas.Understand this class is different & he makes it chill. But all 75min lectures could be 20min vids. Grading system is so \"innovative\" that no student knows their grades even a week from final. It will probably get better, but avoid it for at least another 2 years","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3ODYxMTc1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-08 20:27:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"just no. I don't have the ability to speak into existence just how much Scott is the worst professor in the entire world. Avoid at all costs if you value your sanity. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NzkwNzkz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-05-02 17:53:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"I would rather drop out of school than take his class again. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NjQ1NzE5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-04-17 17:08:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"How this man ever received a teaching job, let alone at this college is beyond my comprehension. Most disorganized person I have ever met. Very nice though if you ever have the displeasure of speaking with him though.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NjEwOTA0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-04-11 21:24:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"My experience with Professor Swanson was truly disappointing. This class can be summarized by disorganization, poor communication, and a lack of responsibility. I sincerely hope that this review helps future students avoid taking this class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NTYyMTkw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-03-30 21:54:46 +0000 UTC","comment":"so bad he inspired me to write a review","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDg5MzY2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-03-08 19:54:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"Bad","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDY2Mzk5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-02-28 22:31:52 +0000 UTC","comment":"Do not even consider taking CS 506 with Scott Swanson. It's week 6 and we still haven't started on our semester long projects that this class is meant for. I'm in class right now and he wasted the first 30 minutes making excuses for why he can't organize this class. He still has not proved that he knows anything about software engineering","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDY0NzU2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-02-28 15:48:08 +0000 UTC","comment":"I've had some terrible professors throughout my time at UW-Madison, but Scott is the first to inspire me to write a review here. Extraordinarily and pointedly condescending, and prefers to philosophize in class instead of covering materials. Onus will be entirely on the student to learn any semblance of software development. Avoid at all costs. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDU5NjU2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-02-26 20:48:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Actually the worst professor I've had at UW Madison. Like many others have said, Scott is entitled and condescending, going on completely pointless rants every day. Instead of taking responsibility for his mistakes, he blames students. It is now 2 weeks until spring break and we haven't started our projects (the main purpose of this class). ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDU3MDIw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-02-24 23:25:30 +0000 UTC","comment":"He has to manage 250 students, and organize them into teams (which is tough)\n\nHOWEVER, this does not excuse his\n- disrespectful behavior \n- long, unorganized canvas and piazza posts\n- Inability to follow the required textbooks during lecture and instead lecture on his own \"philosophical material\" \n- blame students for bad polling techniques","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDQ4MTQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-02-21 22:42:47 +0000 UTC","comment":"Scott is great at talking. So much so that he goes on endless rants regarding information that is not relevant to the course. If you can take a different class in place of 506 I would highly recommend. I thought it was funny at first but I am sitting in class right now and starting to get very frustrated with how bad of a teacher he is. \n","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDIwMzE1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-02-09 17:41:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is more like a politician rather than a professor since what all he talks in the class is quite useless and unnecessarily vague. He tries to make the class fun and sometimes throws some nice jokes. However, his profession as a professor is the worst among all the professors I have ever met before.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3Mzc1MzM5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-01-25 01:09:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very easy class, weekly reading quizzes and a big semester long group project, along with some short assignments. Final exam is extremely easy as well because it's all survey type questions about the group project you worked on so no studying/memorization required.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MjkyMzgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2023-01-06 09:30:46 +0000 UTC","comment":"This course is must for students interesting in learning about the software engineering.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MTIzMzYy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-12-14 22:01:46 +0000 UTC","comment":"Scott Swanson is one of the most irritating people I've ever interacted with. He is completely disrespectful to students, their time, and is often pretentious and condescending. He goes on tangents for entire class periods that have nothing to do with course content. Disorganized class. Worst lectures I've ever had. His class ruins my day.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MDY5NzA4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-12-11 01:50:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"The semester is almost over and no one knows how they are going to be graded. Lectures and class structure are a mess he is far from understanding and loves to point fingers at everyone else. A very incoherent structure, that is very stressful and anxiety inducing. Everything is self taught could have just been an online class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2OTY1NDQ4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-12-05 02:27:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"Extremely bad class! Classes have zero knowledge and still, it is mandatory. No structure, no rubrics for most assignments. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2ODc3MTg5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-11-21 23:42:02 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Swanson is extremely chatty and long-winded. He rambles on about random topics and personal beliefs, rarely staying on topic. He's also quite whiny and neurotic, and is the only professor I've had in 4 years of college whose personality has truly bothered me. Going to his class is draining and upsetting. The class is really easy though.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NzMyODUy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-10-25 02:36:48 +0000 UTC","comment":"Expects students to check Piazza in the morning and at night. There really is no class structure. You can go to lecture if you want to listen to him talk about his past and his favorite painting. He will assign homework due in less than 24 hours since he assigned it. Rating at bottom = FAKE. Not a single true statement in there. Avoid this guy","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NzI1NDc4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-10-22 06:57:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"The organization of this class is a mess. There are confusions everywhere. \n1. Lecture: Zero information, random. Talk about his fav painting for 30 min\n2. Syllabus: Until the mid of the semester, he finally publishes the syllabus on canvas\n3. Canvas: Having constant issue creating assignment and keep making mistakes. 5-8 emails+announcement / day","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NzA5NjU3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-10-18 02:32:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"If you have any other options, take them instead. Loves to stroke his own ego and talk about how smart he is, will spend classes berating students for not reading every single Piazza post. Will have due dates of less than 24 hours and then be offended if anyone pushes back. One of the most poorly run classes I have ever taken.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NzA5MzA2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-10-18 01:02:37 +0000 UTC","comment":"Avoid him at all cost. Literally teaching nothing in class. If you are seeking any software engineering experience, go with CS 639 instead. This man, this legend, once said students should check piazza and canvas once they wake up and before going to sleep (how come is that a mandatory thing?","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:38.057732+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2Njg1Njcx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2823898","instructor_name":"Scott Swanson","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2022-10-08 01:26:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"The man, the myth, the legend: Emdad. This man single-handly allowed me to sky rocket my grades, while reducing my anxiety. This man is a saint. He will never yell at you and will hold your hand with even the most basic assignments. Please show him love and respect.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2823898","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1Njc0NDQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-12-29 23:06:06 +0000 UTC","comment":"Well, to be fair it seemed she had some health issue this year. Having good TAs is also part of professor's teaching skill... Despite all negative reviews (which are true), there are some good points like no finals (or.. is that the only good aspect?..)","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1MjMzMTY5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-11-12 22:53:56 +0000 UTC","comment":"I'm not sure what Professor Williams even does. The TAs lead the class, do all of the grading, do the design demos, and literally everything else. She is useless. Don't expect to learn anything from her. CS506 is only good if you want to work on a big project and already know how to develop software. Don't expect this course to teach you anything.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1MTA4NTU2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-10-07 02:27:58 +0000 UTC","comment":"The worst CS class I have ever taken. There is a big project worth 55% of the grade but to get familiar with that there is a spike exercise that takes around 30+ hours to complete. Expected to learn a lot in this course but learnt nothing so far after a whole month. Class is in person but professor only showed up to class 2 times out of 12 classes.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0ODcxNjgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-05-29 04:12:37 +0000 UTC","comment":"pretends to care for her students publically and is very vocal about it but absolutely denies helping when issues are brought up. Has 0 grasp on the material. Her lectures were extremely vague and full of how 'she did it in the industry', never looked at lectures and got an A. Grading is the only good part of her class. TA's carry her load.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NzcxOTI3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-05-12 04:36:27 +0000 UTC","comment":"The worst professor I've encountered during my 4 years of undergrad experiences. The group project takes a great portion of the final grade. TAs were really nice and gave reasonable scores, but the professor's scores and comments made no sense at all. Asked for a regrade, and she assured to give feedback soon, but never did ever since!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0Njg0MzE3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-05-03 02:58:13 +0000 UTC","comment":"This class is useless if you have taken any software internship or work experience. Communication is terrible and the TA's are the only thing holding things together. There are "peer evaluations" to try to help balance team scores, but if you have someone mooching on your team, you are pretty much toast. No final exam is the only plus.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NTk4NDcw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-04-22 05:54:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"SKIP THE COURSE AND DO YOURSELF A FAVOR! The course is very badly planned, there is no actual learning wrt software engineering. App development is the only learning in this course(better take your fav app dev course from Udemy). Important concepts such as design patterns are done in just a single class. The instructor and TAs are not in sync.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NTY0NjQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-04-16 22:56:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"She is just bad at teaching. Her lectures are badly structured, and her lectures slides are very unorganized and not aesthetically pleasing that I always wonder how she is teaching UI/UX designs. Assignment descriptions are never clear that students always ask a bunch of questions for clarifications. Worst class I've ever taken in the CS department","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NDk5NjE5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2021-04-02 01:50:31 +0000 UTC","comment":"All she does is tell that she did this during her work experience and I think she believes saying that statement transfers all her knowledge to us. Doesn't teach anything and asks whatever she feels like in exams. Worst "teacher" ever.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzMTU0MDg3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2020-04-29 04:52:56 +0000 UTC","comment":"Loved her insight from actually having worked as a software developer. Very positive attitude that made the subject matter a little more interesting. Also actually wants students to succeed and is receptive if you have questions. However, this class is definitely hard. Beware of the Spike Project. Great learning experience but a lot of work","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyODMzNjA4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2020-01-14 13:27:20 +0000 UTC","comment":"She cancels office hours without prior notice. 55% is on a group project; it was bad because of my group who didn't work. I contacted her to address the issue and fix my grade but she gave all the group zeros in peer evaluation because she did not want to deal with it; easier for her :) I got AB but definitely deserved A. This should be 4 credits.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyMjI5NTEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-09-15 19:28:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"I took two classes and dropped the course due to the instructor's several "amazing" policies and "excellent" TA squads. Honestly, half of the proposals they selected are questionable. She ask the student's to carefully see the syllabus and even set up a syllabus quiz, however, in the quiz, she used more than three typos to represent her "careful".","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNzI0NDk4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-04-30 23:02:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"Better programmer than prof.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNjk3OTEy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-04-28 16:21:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"Tracy is the worst professor I've had at UW. After 2 of her classes I learned only how subpar her lecture skills are. Often stumbles over her own words and mixes things up, making things difficult to understand. Spends a significant amount of time bragging about her "certificates" and takes any opportunity to talk herself up. Condescending in OH.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNjQ1Nzc2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-04-22 21:20:19 +0000 UTC","comment":"If I had one word to describe tracy it would be ambiguous. The assignments are ambiguous. Her lectures are ambiguous. Even if you try your hardest to go to lecture and understand what is going on, it is still difficult because she does not present the material in a clear way. She also chewed out groups in front of the entire class. It was awkward.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNTM3Njg5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-04-05 15:12:33 +0000 UTC","comment":"The group project is interesting, lots of documentation but I learned a lot doing it. The lectures all feel unplanned like it is just ad lib. I think she knows a lot about the material, but just doesn't prepare nearly enough for lecture. Also the midterm isn't about concepts, it's about writing a note sheet of exact phases she uses on the slides.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNTI3NTYz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-04-04 01:05:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hands down worst CS professor I've had. Pointless lectures. Terrible organization of the course and use of Canvas. Avoid at all costs.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNTExMzEz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-04-01 20:57:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"Tracy does a poor job of conveying information. Usually lecture involves going through upwards of 50 slides (if we get that far), with her just reading whatever is on the slides. The start of the year involves a spike exercise that was supposed to take "7 hours", but it really took most people at least three times that. Overall would not recommend.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNDM4NjUz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2019-03-14 23:50:48 +0000 UTC","comment":"She is taking advantage of the system. She improvises everything she says and preaches about whatever comes to her mind. 40% of the class shows up. It's funny really. If her boss showed up to her class and counted the number of people coming to class Tracy would just make attendance mandatory and then we'd be forced to sit in her money grab class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMwODM2NTQy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2018-12-02 14:30:55 +0000 UTC","comment":"Tracy is a professional project manager, but if she were my project manager I would quit. She has no idea how to manage a class and consistently gives "explanations" but she just makes things confusing and surprises you with dumb points off. If you've ever worked in software before, stay away, because she is an utterly ineffective prof/proj manager","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:15.133817+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMwNjkxMjI1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2126212","instructor_name":"Tracy Lewis-Williams","course_label":"CS506","course_id":"COMPSCI/ECE 506","course_uid":"course_32bc831d31cf0c1254ddaf8d","review_date":"2018-11-08 23:39:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"There is a lot of information on the mid term exam tomorrow. Glad we get a 4 page cheat sheet. Overall, she knows a lot about software engineering and it is a well-organized class. The homeworks are HARD!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2126212","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0}]