4.2

Carol Riphenburg

Political Science - College of DuPage

4.2
Quality
2.6
Difficulty
100%
Would Retake
100
Reviews
4.2
Quality
2.6
Difficulty
4.2
Helpful
4.2
Clarity

100%

Would Retake

100

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

61

4

18

3

13

2

5

1

3

What Students Say

This lady speaks in monotone

POLSCI100 - 1.0 rating

No trouble getting an A if you complete the really basic review sheets

POLS100 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

67%

Textbook Required

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

65% confidence
Based on 5 grades
Most common grades:
A (3)
A+ (2)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(0)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(0)
Based on 5 reported grades
A: 3
A+: 2
Common Tags
Participation matters (2)
Clear grading criteria (2)
Gives good feedback (2)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.53 avg change
Dec
Jan
Feb
May
Jan
Nov
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

1100

5.0

(2)

1101

5.0

(1)

POLSCI101

5.0

(1)

PS100100

5.0

(1)

USAPOLITICS

5.0

(1)
+41 more courses
Difficulty by Course

INTRO012

5.0

INTROMWF

5.0

COMPMWF

5.0

INTRO001

5.0

COMP040

5.0

Reviews (100)
1.0
1.0
POLSCI100
Mar 20, 2003

OH MY GOD! The dead has a risen! This lady speaks in monotone! I am Dr. RIPH-EN-BERG! Political Sci. Robot at your service! Tests are a cinch, boring lectures. ZZZ!

5.0
1.0
POLS100
Dec 5, 2003

Knows her stuff. Good presentation. No trouble getting an A if you complete the really basic review sheets.

4.0
1.0
POLISCI
May 30, 2004

She knows alot and is a nice person but her classes are boring. Very easy A though.

5.0
1.0
POLSCI101
Aug 20, 2004

VERY EASY TEACHER, not hard on students. Liked her very much.

5.0
1.0
PS100100
Sep 27, 2004

Dont but the books except for study guide purposes...Summer classes don't need book at all! Enjoyed the 2 easy A's! Only need to attend review class for answers to all the test questions.

4.0
1.0
POLSCIENC
Nov 3, 2004

don't buy book. do not attend class except for review days and test days. easy A

3.0
1.0
POLSCI100
Nov 4, 2004

Oh my god! This teacher...amazingly smart, HORRIBLE PUBLIC SPEAKER!! Seriously. DON'T BUY THE BOOK. She gives you the answers to the study guide the day before. The test IS the study guide in order almost ver batum. Make sure you have friends in her class or you'll get hella bored.

5.0
1.0
USAPOLITICS
Nov 9, 2004

Incredibly easy class, but an extremely boring teacher. Come to class(or don't), and just go to sleep. The review sheet she hands out for tests IS THE TEST! It even comes in the same form. There is no homework, just one paper. Thats it! Easy A.

5.0
1.0
POLSCI
Nov 10, 2004

proof that not all scholars (i was told she is) and intellectuals (im not saying she is either of those or both, thats not for me to decide) are the best of teachers. i dont know what she really taught, hence..she is very very easy.

3.0
2.0
POLS100
Dec 1, 2004

Only need to show up for the review and the tests. The papers arent bad either. But I did fall asleep in class a couple of times.

5.0
1.0
POLISCI100
Feb 2, 2005

No Comments

4.0
1.0
POLSCI100
Feb 17, 2005

Easiest teacher i have ever taken in my life she barely takes attendance and the study guides she hands out for the tests with the anwsers are exactly word for word on the test. i definetly recommend her for an easy A

4.0
1.0
AMEPOLITICSH
Jun 1, 2005

By far the easiest Honors class ever. Had 2 tests, a ch. summary with a book report on and then a noncomprehensive final. She gives all answers to test in exact order. I did not even read my book 4 the report & I got a 100%. I spent 99% of my class time doing other homework and still got A's on both tests, book report and took the easy final today.

4.0
1.0
POL100
Jun 8, 2005

very easy teacher!

4.0
1.0
AMERICANPOLI
Jul 21, 2005

easiest teacher that i ever had. The study guides she hands out are the tests. There in word for word and in order so when you take the exams its a piece of cake. Only bad part is that she is really boring and she shouldnt be a teacher. Kind of feel sorry for her

3.0
1.0
AMERPOL
Nov 7, 2005

This class is so easy b/c the study guidesshe hands out are basically the test. But the class can be very boring because all she does is lecture and put on movies. An easy A though.

5.0
1.0
1101
Dec 7, 2005

Lots of info and great videos.

4.0
1.0
PS1105AMPOL
Dec 29, 2005

Professor Riphenburg is a good professor and teaches a good class. The class is rather boring, but the videos are usually interesting and her tests are really easy because she provides a study guide that is a duplicate of the test and gives the answers during the review session. She makes knowing the material pretty easy. She is Nice as well.

5.0
1.0
POLISCI
Mar 16, 2006

She is easy. Like others said her test is almost a photocopied duplicate of the study guide right down to the order of questions. She is a nice lady though. Easy way to boost gpa and never have to attend class.

3.0
1.0
POLYSCI2220
May 17, 2006

Her classes are extremely easy as everything is takehome. But she is quite boring and shows way too many videos. Not much stuff was taught and it was very basic.

1.0
1.0
AMERICNPOL1101
Jul 21, 2006

LET ME JUST SAY TWO THINKS:......... 1. we met a total of 7 times (summer class) 2. i got a 98%. Are you kidding me?? I HATE POLITICS AND IT WAS THE EASIEST A EVer!!!

4.0
1.0
POLSC1100
Nov 2, 2006

I went to class 6 out of 28 times. Three for tests, two to pick up study guide/answers to the test in order, and one because I felt bad that nobdoy ever came. How she is a college professor I do not know. Class is a joke. You don't need the book. Bring a pillow if you decide to go to class.

1.0
1.0
POLI101
Dec 21, 2006

This class was a joke. The teacher bored everyone to death, and was not very helpful or obective in the delivery of the material.

3.0
1.0
POLIT1100
May 8, 2007

This class is definetly an easy class if you study from the study guide you can get an A on the test. I felt bad that about 7 out of 30 students showed up to class. You really only have to show up for the tests and to get the study guides. Kind of a boring class and not very challenging.

3.0
1.0
POLI2203
May 14, 2007

EASY A++ the study guides were the test questions in exact order, you have to make sure you keep reading it over &over she basically tests you on how well you memorized the study guide.DONT BUY THE BOOK!Book report was EASY i didnt even read the book &got an A+ i dont even think she read them just gave As away.Go 2 class!or she may change her ways!

5.0
1.0
POLSC2203
May 18, 2007

Comparative politics. Do not buy the book. Tests are word for word from the study guide given. Attendance not mandatory. Class is very boring. All you need are the study guides handed out and you've got an A

4.0
1.0
POLS2203
May 29, 2007

Don't bother with the book. Study guide tells all on test. 4 tests, one paper, class participation. Smart woman and knows her subject. I think that people think this class is a blow off and it is, but if you actually go to class she does extra learning like critical thinking which I enjoyed. I wish she would have done more class discussions.

5.0
1.0
POLIT1101
Jul 24, 2007

She is one of the best teacher @ COD, extremely helpful, very easy goin, dont buy the goddamn text book....

2.0
1.0
POLS1100
Aug 29, 2007

as long as you attend class, all you do is watch movies & write a paragraph summary or reaction to it to get attendance points. No homework, reading the book is NOT necessary, she gives you a 'study guide' for the 2 or 3 tests you have that is literally the questions from the test, typed as statements - memorize the sheet, ace the test. boring cla

5.0
4.0
POLS2203
May 23, 2008

Dr. Riphenburg is an interesting and well-prepared teacher. I enjoyed her classes immensely.

5.0
1.0
POLS1100
Nov 15, 2008

dude heres the str8 up truth i went to this class on the first day of school. then i only showed up on the days of the 3 tests and that is it. my grade was over a 100% and every week she gives out extra credit for taking stupid notes on a video. and the tests are EXACT replicas of the study guides. EASY EASY EASY A++

4.0
1.0
POLS1100
Mar 23, 2009

EASIEST CLASS EVER!! The test is the study guide. You never use the book don't bother buying it.

5.0
2.0
POLI1100
May 11, 2009

Very nice teacher! Class is interesting! You learn so much if you GO TO CLASS.

3.0
1.0
PS1101
Jul 16, 2009

you never use the book and you dont have to go to class. she gives you a study guide that has every question and answer and if you need an easy A take this class! make notecards for every test and you will get a 100!

4.0
1.0
INTRO1100
Sep 29, 2009

Nice lady. Topic interests her but she doesn?t take her job to seriously. Never use the book so save your money. Only went to class a hand full of times and got an A. the study guide is word for word in order of what is on the test. Nice lady, easy class.

5.0
1.0
POLIT1101
Dec 10, 2009

She's a terrific poli sci professor!

5.0
1.0
POLIS1100
Apr 30, 2010

Tests are replica of study guides, attendance is NOT mandatory and i don't recommend you go! Very easy A. Gives extra credit too. EASY EASY EASY!!!!!

5.0
1.0
POLS1102
May 13, 2010

Great teacher, fights for middle-eastern rights and speaks Arabic. She has also traveled to many places in the middle east. She has 3 multiple choice exams.

4.0
1.0
INTRO1101
May 19, 2010

If you want easy A take her. Only 3 tests. She gives you the answers before the test. Exactly the same questions, in the same order. And she doesn't take attendance. You can go only for the 3 tests if you want

5.0
1.0
POLYALOT
May 21, 2010

I don't know why anyone wouldn't give Carol a perfect rating. I took Intro and Comparative. I probably went a grand total of 10 times both semesters and didn't miss a point. Study guides= tests, in same order, typed as statements. Side note--in comparative, she gives impossible quizzes and doesn't tell you they are extra credit until the end.

3.0
1.0
POLSC1100
Jan 2, 2011

Im sorry to say that Ive never had a more boring professor. I dont care how easy the class was (doesnt take attend., practically gives you exam answers), its just frustrating to not even want to go to class, even after being interested in the subject. Plus, you can take notes but none of that material is on the exams. I would never recommend her.

5.0
1.0
POLSC1100
May 18, 2011

Easiest class ever! enough said. oh and don't buy book she gives you test answers essentially. Went to class about 6or7 times total. Got an A, didn't learn a thing though.

2.0
1.0
POLSC1100
May 20, 2011

I actually like to learn things from the classes I take. I learned absolutely nothing from this class. And I got an A.

5.0
2.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

A very good professor. Really knows her subject. Although it's not hard to get a good grade, you can really learn a lot from the class. Would recommend taking it.

5.0
4.0
POLS2203
Jun 30, 2011

A professor who really know her subject and cares whether a student understands the material. I would definitely take her again.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Jun 30, 2011

It's important to read the text to get a lot out of this class. While it's not hard to get a good grade, this class will definitely pique your interest and make you want to learn more about Political Science. Take the class.

3.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

The experience Dr. Riphenburg brings about the Middle East really makes this class interesting. If you do the work, you can get a good grade. But you'll definitely want to get something more out of it. I truly enjoyed this course; and I usually don't say this about a Political Science course.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

If you have to take an introductory class about politics, take this one. The professor also knows a lot about the Middle East and speaks Arabic, which makes the class interesting. The professor will also help you with whatever issues you might have.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Jun 30, 2011

I was only interested in European countries until I took this class. The professor has so much knowledge about the Middle East and other countries, it really expanded my horizons. You have to read the book; but if you do the work, you'll get a good grade. Take the class.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

The professor may seem aloof because she knows so much, but really wants her students to learn. If you have an issue, she'll take the time to explain it to you. If you weren't concerned about the politics of other countries or your own, you'll be by the time you finish the course. Great course!

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

A lot of people said that this class would be easy; but it's not if you want to learn something. I would definitely recommend this class; because if you do the work, you'll get a decent grade and it's interesting. You cover so many different topics you won't get bored.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Jun 30, 2011

This class is not boring, if you're interested in the topic. I wanted to learn something and got so much out of it. Some in the class didn't and so they showed only for review days. Dr. Riphenburg has so much experience. I really enjoyed learning from her.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

I took this class because I had to take a gen ed and really didn't care about politics. The class made me understand the importance of learning about the country and world we live in. I definitely recommend this course, even if you don't think you'll like the subject to begin with.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

Hated Political Science before I took this class; but the professor brings in so many current events issues and other topics I liked it better than I thought. Take this class if you want to get interested and learn a lot. The work isn't hard if you keep on top of it.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

At first I wasn't going to buy the book and try to get by with other class work. The textbook is interesting thought. It's not really hard. Dr. Riphenburg exposes you to so many topics in the class; it makes you get interested. I always recommend this professor to others.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jun 30, 2011

A lot of people said that this class would be easy; but you do have to work to get something out of it. Teacher puts a lot of passion into her work, especially her interest in the Middle East and the role of women. Some great topics covered!

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Jul 3, 2011

A professor who inspires. Really got a lot out of this class. Would take another one of her classes.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jul 9, 2011

Best teacher ever. A very intelligent person. Great perspective on Middle East issues and other current events.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jul 18, 2011

Carol is a great professor. She knows her subject well and enjoys sharing her experiences with his students. Her teaching style makes for more pleasant learning environment.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Jul 25, 2011

Great professor. Stimulated me to become interested in politics and peoples around the globe. Take this class and others by her. You won't be disappointed.

3.0
1.0
POLSC1100
Jul 29, 2011

I went to class all but one time and I didnt NEED the book at all. If you memorize the study guide and I mean MEMORIZE it then you'll do terrific on the tests. She is very interested in the topic and not at bad teacher, but she definitely did not hold my attention.

3.0
1.0
POLSC1100
Aug 18, 2011

one of the easiest classes possible. all the exams are straight off the study guide. IN ORDER. attendance isnt mandatory but show up anyway because she does tend to get annoyed by absencies. dont buy the book, u never use it. all the classwork i think is just ec. and its mostly just taking notes off a video which she puts on the board anyway

5.0
4.0
POLS1100
Aug 23, 2011

What you put into this class you will get out of it. Many students thought it was easy but didn't want to do the work anyway. If Political Science doesn't hold their attention, why don't they just get a certificate.

5.0
4.0
POLS2203
Aug 23, 2011

I really enjoyed this class. The professor especially has a passion for Middle East politics and brings that interest into the classroom. Most students in the class didn't want to buy the book. Guess they don't realize they're really cheating themselves.

5.0
5.0
INTRO012
Sep 1, 2011

I learned so much from this class. The professor varies the pace and cares whether students attend. It's a class you want to go to.

5.0
4.0
INTRO1100
Sep 26, 2011

I took this class because it would help towards my major. It was a great way to start.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Oct 10, 2011

Dr. Riphenburg is flexible and gives good feedback. It's necessary to study hard for the tests. She is really into the material and makes class interesting. Also often discusses current events before class. Take her!

5.0
5.0
INTROMWF
Nov 3, 2011

Dr. Riphenburg is a great teacher. She's definitely interested in the subject matter. She expects students to learn and provides the materials to help make them a success.

5.0
5.0
COMPMWF
Nov 3, 2011

In this class it's up to you to do the work. The professor provides a lot of content and very interesting audiovisual materials. Those who complain usually aren't that interested anyway.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Nov 30, 2011

You learn so much about other countries from this class. Professor's knowledge of Middle East is awesome. Great class!

5.0
1.0
POLS1100
Dec 10, 2011

Easiest class ever! I don't know anything about political science nor am I interested at all. Her tests are EXACTLY the same as the study guides - in the same order! We watch movies everyday and copy what she writes on the board - which is extra credit. Attendance is not really mandatory. I never opened the book - don't need it. Take her, easy A.

5.0
5.0
INTRO1100
Dec 14, 2011

Too many students take classes just to get by. However, they are cheating themselves. The professor in this class is really knowledgable. So take this class to get something out of it. What you put into it is what you'll get out of it.

5.0
1.0
POLS1100
Dec 18, 2011

THIS CLASS IS SUPER EASY. ATTENDANCE NOT MANDATORY! HER TESTS ARE EASY, EXACT SAME AS STUDY GUIDE FOR ALL TESTS. THAT IS THE MAJOR GRADE RIGHT THERE. ALL OTHER ASSIGNMENTS ARE JUST EXTRA CREDIT INCASE YOU DO BAD ON THE TESTS WHICH YOU SHOULDN'T. REALLY EASY A. I RECOMMEND BIG TIME IF YOU NEED A INTRO TO POLITICAL SCIENCE WITH PROFESSOR RIPHENBURG

4.0
4.0
INTRO1100
Dec 21, 2011

Just finished this class and really glad I took it. Professor really smart and well organized. Material is awesome once you get into it.

5.0
5.0
INTRO001
Jan 7, 2012

Wonderful professor. Take this class. Very helpful.

4.0
1.0
POLS1100
Jan 16, 2012

Such an easy class!! Do NOT buy the book!! Midterm and final exam are basically your total grade. She gives you study guides, WITH ANSWERS, that are in the same order of the test. She takes attendance just in case you are on the border of a grade. Take her if you need to get an easy A, not if you really want learn something!

5.0
4.0
POLS1100
Mar 23, 2012

Great class. Professor has traveled and studied abroad and offers interesting examples. This is a class in which to learn a lot.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Mar 23, 2012

Tremendous course. Learned so much.

5.0
5.0
INTRO1100
Apr 19, 2012

Dr. Riphenburg is a great teacher. She always does a variety of things in class so it's not boring. Also immediately answers your questions. Wish she taught more classes.

5.0
5.0
INTRO1100
May 23, 2012

Take this course. Dr. Riphenburg presents a "ton" of material in a straight forward way that's easy to understand. She's received many fellowships so is really into her material.

3.0
2.0
PS1100
May 30, 2012

Would I recommend her? If you're looking for the easiest credit of your college career, definitely. If you're looking for a lively and interesting professor from whom you'll actually learn something, definitely not.

5.0
5.0
COMP040
Jun 20, 2012

A professor who seems to care about her teaching. Work hard and you'll get something out of the class. Highly recommend.

5.0
5.0
INTRO040
Jun 20, 2012

A really great professor. Has a lot of experience so really knows her material. I recommend taking this class.

5.0
1.0
POLS2230
Aug 2, 2012

EASIEST CLASS EVER! You don't even need to show up for class...even though I did for every class. If you want an EASY A TAKE THIS CLASS. She gives you study guides on blackboard which are EXACTLY the same as the test. What a lot of people did was just show up on exam days. As far as the book goes...dont waste your money on it.

4.0
5.0
INTRO1100
Jan 6, 2013

Great teacher! She knows the subject very well and is passionate about what she does. She is demanding but she does her best to ensure students understand the materials.. I strongly recommand her.

5.0
5.0
POLS2203
Mar 20, 2013

Awesome professor. Presents many types of materials in classes to keep students interested. Really wants the students to learn something. Take this class!

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Mar 20, 2013

One of the best professors and most knowledgeable at COD. Really cares if the students learn something in the class. Really willing to help if you have a question or issue.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Mar 20, 2013

Great professor! Wants students to get involved and cares if they learn. Thinks political science is fascinating and wants others to think the same.

5.0
5.0
POLS1100
Apr 4, 2013

One of the best teachers I have had, she is very organized and explains everything well. Lectures are long but worth the explanation, shes very helpful and willing. Loved the class:)

2.0
1.0
2203
Apr 8, 2013

I am taking Comparative Politics online, and I finished the whole class in about 5 hours. Easiest A I have ever gotten in my life. Her comments on BB discussions are very vague, but as long as you actually put effort into the answer and don't google it then you'll do fine. Take this class whether you like PoliSci or not, you won't regret it

4.0
1.0
2203
Jul 19, 2013

I enjoyed this class. She is very intelligent and has a deep passion for her subject. However, she is not the best personal speaker. The Middle East is her forte and I wish she would teach a Middle Eastern class. She is dynamic I feel like she belong on MSNBC, she is very traveled. Give her a chance she will blow our mind! I am taking her again!

2.0
1.0
POLS1101
Aug 4, 2013

Easy class, extremely booring. She reads from power points, and showed us movies from the history channel every day.

5.0
2.0
POL2203
Grade: A+
Aug 25, 2013

Easy Teacher. Only three tests all have study guides. I would definitely recommend Her!~

2.0
1.0
POLS
Dec 16, 2013

I've taken a few classes with her and they were all easy. An insane amount of extra credit. Attendance may not be mandatory but, she basically gives you extra credit for attending classes on random days. All tests have study guides with the answers to the tests on them.

5.0
1.0
POLS1100
Jan 27, 2014

If you have the opportunity to take this class with her and you don't, it'll be a huge mistake. Only 3 exams with study guides (with the questions and direct answers on it)sometimes you do in class notes to go with videos but she writes EXACTLY what you need to turn in right on the board. EASIEST A EVER TAKE HER! THIS IS YOUR SIGN!

3.0
1.0
POLS1100
Feb 4, 2014

With all due respect this was the easiest class I've ever taken in my entire life. 3 tests... THAT'S IT! WORD FOR WORD off your study guide. She also has EC opportunities in class if you watch the movies and take notes that she write on the board... I'm sure she is a knowledgeable person on the subject matter but it was very boring...

5.0
1.0
1100
Grade: A+
May 19, 2014

A great teacher, Easy grader too. MUST TAKE

4.0
1.0
POL1100
Grade: A
Jan 18, 2015

Take this class for an easy A. Do not take this class if your interested in politics. Professor Riphenburg is extremely nice and gentle but she doesn't challenge her students to learn and understand politics. 3 tests are identical from the study guides and you earn extra-credit by showing up to class on Fridays and copying her notes off the board.

5.0
4.0
1100
Grade: A
Nov 20, 2022
Would take again

Lectures are interesting, and there are many interactive opportunities. She helped me get interested in the subject matter and was very willing to answer any questions I had.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
4.0
4.0
2203
Grade: A
Nov 20, 2022
Would take again

The professor really knows the material, introduces to you the politics of countries around the world, and adds materials that make the class interesting. Taking this class definitely enlarged my understanding of the world, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone else.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

67%

Textbook Required

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

65% confidence
Based on 5 grades
Most common grades:
A (3)
A+ (2)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(0)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(0)
Based on 5 reported grades
A: 3
A+: 2
Common Tags
Participation matters (2)
Clear grading criteria (2)
Gives good feedback (2)
Rating Trend

Improving

+0.53 avg change
Dec
Jan
Feb
May
Jan
Nov
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

1100

5.0

(2)

1101

5.0

(1)

POLSCI101

5.0

(1)

PS100100

5.0

(1)

USAPOLITICS

5.0

(1)
+41 more courses
Difficulty by Course

INTRO012

5.0

INTROMWF

5.0

COMPMWF

5.0

INTRO001

5.0

COMP040

5.0

Similar Professors