Econ 106D with Professor Bloedel at UCLA is easily one of the most frustrating and least valuable classes in the economics department. The course content focuses on abstract dynamic decision models and recursive equations that have little to no relevance to real-world economics or any practical career path. Unless you're pursuing a PhD in a niche area of theoretical econ, you will never use what you learn here again.
The real issue, however, is Bloedel’s teaching. Rather than aiming for clarity, he seems more interested in sounding intellectual. Concepts that could be explained simply are buried in layers of obscure math and overcomplicated logic. His lectures leave most students confused, and his responses to questions rarely make things any clearer. It feels more like a performance than an effort to actually teach.
This disconnect shows up clearly in the grades. Exam averages consistently sit in the low 60s, sometimes worse. Overall, 106D is an irrelevant, overly theoretical course made worse by a professor who prioritizes complexity over comprehension. For economics majors, there are far better electives that are actually useful and well taught.

this class was so hard - by far the most difficult econ class i've taken. maybe it just wasn't for me but i struggled so much in the exams and problem sets despite going to lectures, TA sessions and office hours. content is interesting and prof is so nice but you know it's bad when the TAs were telling us "do not panic" right before the final

Professor Bloedel was a great professor, the concepts of the class were interesting and relatively tangible. The problem sets were generally fair and he was accessible for assistance but definitely doesn’t just give answers. Problems sets can be done in a group and there is a final paper that can also be done with up to 3 others. Be warned the final exam is tough.