The final is VERY hard (even when it was open note for COVID). Lab reports are graded fairly and make sure to pick a great group and put in the effort.
Grade Distribution
15 Reviews
Same as IDEAs I, but this final was much more difficult (focus on analysis).
If you're taking it you probably know it's a b*tch but make sure you have a good group and start your project early! (If you get an electronics one I apologize for your misfortune).
Start your reports ASAP after you do the labs! Dr. Allen randomly assigned groups for the Fall semester, but lets you pick your group for the Spring semester. Whatever group you get, make sure EVERYONE puts in their time to work on the report - if even one person is slacking, you're screwed. Follow the report guidelines closely, otherwise the TAs will take off easy points. Otherwise, enjoy this class - if you get past the reports, which take an awful lot of time, the lab work and techniques you learn are actually quite interesting and fun :)
the second semester is a lot more enjoyable than the first, but it's still challenging. if you're willing to put in a few late nights you should be in good shape. the second semester final was also considerably more challenging than the first semester's.
While the in-lab portions are not as interesting (dry lab mostly) as last semester, the report writing is easier. There are less reports to write and they are due (generally) once every three weeks. Except to spend the same amount of time per report, though. The final project is incredibly time consuming but a nice learning experience so make sure you start early.
Hardest class in biomed but well worth the effort for how many skills you learn.
Choose your group members well (especially a couple with MATLAB and electrical skills). The lab report grading is easier; however, the final is much harder this semester.
I love Tim Allen! This class was really hard (obviously) and required a ton of work. During the final group projects we spent like 30 hours in our advisor's lab each week just performing the experiments - a little ridiculous but we had to get the work done. The final was really hard but if you work hard (and have a good group) you'll get a good grade.
I enjoyed 390 much more than 380 because we got to pick teams and the modules were definitely more engineering based. The material and concepts weren't that challenging but the data analysis took a long time. Make sure you chose a group with a good work ethic.