4.4

Christopher Thompson

History - Ball State University

4.4
Quality
3.4
Difficulty
73%
Would Retake
116
Reviews
4.4
Quality
3.4
Difficulty
4.3
Helpful
4.4
Clarity

73%

Would Retake

116

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

77

4

23

3

10

2

4

1

2

What Students Say

Thompson is so passionate and knowledgeable about history

HIST152 - 5.0 rating

Tests are 50% book and 50% lecture, pretty easy overall but you must read

HIST150 - 4.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

49%

Textbook Required

0%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 47 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
B (10)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(19)B(12)C(5)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(11)
Based on 51 reported grades
A: 16
B: 10
A-: 9
C+: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (31)
Skip class? You won't pass. (15)
Test heavy (10)
Lecture heavy (10)
Hilarious (8)
Amazing lectures (8)
EXTRA CREDIT (6)
Tough grader (6)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.56 avg change
Apr
May
Jan
Apr
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

HIST202

5.0

(1)

HIST

5.0

(1)

HIST151

5.0

(1)

HISTHIST

5.0

(1)

HIST4

5.0

(1)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

HISTORY150

5.0

HST150

4.5

HIST471

4.3

HIST202

4.0

WESTERNCIV

4.0

Reviews (116)
5.0
2.0
HIST150
Dec 16, 2002

beautiful accent, LOVES french history

2.0
5.0
HST150
Dec 19, 2002

No Comments

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Feb 4, 2003

Very passionate about his job. Kind fo tough class, but easier with a good prof

5.0
4.0
HIST152
Oct 21, 2003

Loves to help his students and forces you to learn instead of just memorizing the material, and he has a great accent!

5.0
4.0
HST150
Oct 25, 2003

excellent prof though some of the material be hard, but is always willing to help, I definatly recommend this prof

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Oct 29, 2003

great class

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Nov 17, 2003

Very clear in his lectures. Capable of explaining things in terms all students can understand. Great sense of humor.

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Nov 21, 2003

Awesome prof, fun to pay attention to. Very clear and makes sure you understand

5.0
3.0
HIST152
Apr 22, 2004

I loved his class. He does have an excellent accent....not to mention his has lead an pretty interesting life. He's probably the best prof I've ever had.

5.0
4.0
HIST202
Aug 9, 2004

WOnderful accent and sense of humor. The material is hard but he will help you any time you need it. He has interesting stories and you can tell he loves what he does.

5.0
3.0
HIS150
Dec 1, 2004

Although history can be a boring subject, Dr. Thompson does a good job to make it fun and exciting. He always makes sure everyone understands and answers everyone's questions.

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Aug 23, 2005

I hate history, and I absolutely loved this class. Just show up, take notes, and study for the tests. People act like it is really hard, but it's not so bad. And Professor Thompson is very helpful.

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Aug 31, 2005

No Comments

4.0
4.0
WESTERNCIV
Aug 31, 2005

No Comments

2.0
5.0
150
Sep 1, 2005

No Comments

4.0
5.0
HISTORY150
Oct 16, 2005

No Comments

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Nov 25, 2005

He's great at making history more human. Very nice and very clear.

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Dec 13, 2005

Professor Thompson is very enthusiastic about history & it is contagious! I hated history & dreaded this class before taking it, but I enjoyed it in the end. To do well in this class you have to read, read, read, go to lecture & study sessions never hurt. This class isn't easy but u learn a lot. The prof is helpful so Good Luck if u take HIST 150!

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Jan 9, 2006

he knows it all, loves what he's doing, and is a great help!

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Jan 12, 2006

He is awesome! I hated history until I had him for a professor! He's so smart, and loves what he does! Awesome prof!

5.0
3.0
HIST
Jan 25, 2006

very good

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Aug 6, 2006

Very good teacher who's enthusiastic about what he teaches. If you just pay attention in lectures (show up) and do any readings he asks you to do, you will do well. He also has study sessions if you're having any trouble. Definitely recommend him.

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Oct 23, 2006

he is an incredible teacher. he asks a lot of his students, but he is fair and his classes are his first priority (or he makes it feel that way). he doesn't care about exact dates, but about the lessons learned from that particular part of history. read the book, and take notes, and you be fine and don't skip the class.. its too much fun!

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Dec 7, 2006

Awesome prof! History is my absolute least favorite subject, but he makes it really interesting. He loves what he does and will do anything to help you understand the material. Definitely read the book and know the notes. Don't miss class! Classes are so much fun.

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Apr 30, 2007

Thompson is the best history teacher ever. The class is extremely interesting and the way that he teaches is phenominal. I would recommend him to anyone

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Apr 14, 2008

By far one of the best teachers I have ever had. As long as you go to class, and read the book you will be fine. He actually makes history interesting to people who don't have a strong interest in it. I would take another class he offered just to have him in class again. A+++

5.0
1.0
HIST150
Aug 25, 2009

Very enthusiastic about his teaching.

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Aug 25, 2009

Absolutely loved his class! Very helpful, loves history, and will make you love it too! Awesome accent too!

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Oct 30, 2009

Dr. Thompson is a fantastic teacher. I have not had him as an actual prof myself yet, but I was his TA this semester. If you want to do well, you need to do the readings and go to class--take notes during the lecture. He's interesting and I would recommend him to anyone. I will be taking a course with him next semester and I'm really excited about

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Nov 12, 2009

Dr. Thompson is one of my favorite professors I have had here at Ball State. He gives great lectures that engage the class. He hands out useful study guides and offers informative study sessions. If you put forth the effort, do the readings and take notes of his lectures you will do well - this is how learning should be.

4.0
4.0
HIST150
Nov 29, 2009

Lots of material covered, and the tests are long. He is very helpful and is always available after class.

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Dec 13, 2009

He is a very good professor. You have to read the readings he give you but as long as you pay attention in class which is easy because he makes it interesting and do the readings you will get an A or a B.

5.0
1.0
HIST150
Dec 24, 2009

I'm a history major and took HIST150 just because I needed some credits to burn, This guy is an OUTSTANDING professor, probably the best one I've had to date. His lectures are very interesting and makes it easy to remember. He does have half of his tests over readings, if you do those and go to class you should be able to get an A.

5.0
2.0
HIST151
Mar 18, 2010

Like everyone else is saying: this guy is simply outstanding!!! You always learn something new and exciting in his lectures. His tests are extremely fair. Undoubtedly the best history teacher I have had. Superb!

5.0
2.0
HIST152
May 8, 2010

take notes and read book material, and if he assigns novels be sure and read them! he's funny and young and makes history fun, shows a lot of cool pictures

4.0
3.0
HIST152
Aug 31, 2010

Very passionate about history, makes his lectures incredibly interesting. Great prof to have, I looked forward to his class. Make sure you read even if it has nothing to do w/ the lectures - his tests are half from the reading and half from the lecture, and according to him he actually counts the questions to make sure they're half and half.

5.0
1.0
HISTHIST
Sep 29, 2010

It's so easy to get an A in his class and he is incredibly nice and funny

5.0
4.0
HIST456
Nov 22, 2010

He is awesome. There is a bunch of reading for the class but he makes lecture very interesting by basically having an open forum for discussion. He is more than willing to help if you go to his office hours. One of the best profs I've had at Ball State

4.0
3.0
HIST150
Nov 29, 2010

Professor Thompson is an outstanding teacher. I am not really all that interested in history, but I always pay full attention during the entire class. He makes a topic understandable. He does whatever he can to make sure that you get the grade that you want to make in the class. GREAT Professor.

5.0
5.0
HIST150
Dec 29, 2010

I was sick a lot and missed many lectures. This made the class very difficult and I struggled to pull a C. He did make lectures interesting, but I would recommend a different teacher for an easier class.

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Mar 23, 2011

Excellent Professor. Interesting lectures (even for someone not interested in history). You DO have to work though. Lecture material is important for tests as well as a quick reading of rather lengthy assignments for each test. Very clear; phenomenal at lecturing. Very attractive accent too (one that doesn't make him difficult to understand at all)

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Apr 18, 2011

Professor Thompson is great! He has a way of presenting history that is very clear. Lectures are interesting. He does not use the book in class, but you're responsible for reading it at home. Tests are half from the book and half from lecture. Attend class! You won't be sorry! He is a nice guy and will help you. Holds review sessions b4 tests.

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Jun 17, 2011

Dr. Thompson is a great professor - very helpful. He knows his stuff & has a lot of stories; you can tell he loves his job. His lectures are interesting (pretty funny too). Tests are half lecture/half textbook. Quizzes over reading not difficult if you read thoroughly. Overall interesting, fun class & worth your time. Splendid accent doesn't hurt!

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Jul 30, 2011

Great professor who knows what he is talking about. I have always disliked history, and I enjoyed his lectures. It was important to attend class to take notes and understand the subject. Also, it was equally as important to read the assigned readings! Hard tests, but he also gives good extra credit opportunities.

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Jan 10, 2012

Great professor, hands down one of the most interesting and fun professors i've had. Get him!!

5.0
4.0
HIST152
Apr 25, 2012

Makes the class extremely hard for being a 100 level course. Reading is long and hard (approx. 100 pages a test) plus novels. He's a great professor and definitely knows his matierial.

2.0
5.0
HIST150
Oct 3, 2012

His class has way more work than other hist 150 classes

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Oct 10, 2012

Expect to work in his class. Lectures aren't mandatory, but the tests are 50% from the book and 50% from lectures. If you want to succeed in his class, you HAVE to take notes from the book; this is easy to do, since he assigns no homework other than reading. Despite all of the work, it's very rewarding. It's my favorite class this semester!

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Nov 1, 2012

He clearly outlines what he expects of you as a student. His lectures are very interesting, but very clear. His tests are made of 50% information from the textbook and 50% information from his lectures. Expect to read a little, but the reading is not impossible.

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Nov 27, 2012

Great Teacher! 1/2 of tests are based on lecture and the other 1/2 is from book. Very Funny! Would recommend to anyone

5.0
1.0
HIST4
Dec 3, 2012

Great prof! He's funny and nice. Tests are 50% book and 50% lecture, but he only assigns the parts of the book that you need, not whole chapters. LOVE THIS CLASS!

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Dec 7, 2012

Dr. Thompson is super cool, but it's a large lecture class, so there's only so much he can do. As someone who couldn't afford the pricey book, his 50% lecture and 50% textbook tests were rough and if you miss 3 questions you already have a B+. There are lots of opportunities for Extra Credit though, so that helps!

4.0
5.0
HIST150
Apr 11, 2013

this class is sooooo hard and dr. thompson makes it hard. the tests are impossible and the 5 tests are the only grades for the semester.

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Sep 9, 2013

This guy is fantastic. His class is really interesting and you'll definitely learn a lot. He is very respectful with his comments and how he teaches different (political, religious,etc.)views. This class is the highlight of my day. Plus he has sort of an accent :)

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Sep 12, 2013

Easily the best lecture class I have ever attended. In a class of 250, I feel engaged. He teaches with clarity, and with doses of humor. He lectures from a historian's mind, and keeps his religious/political preferences at home (unusual for a history professor). Those who can study independently, with a general interest in history will thrive.

5.0
2.0
HIST152
Grade: B+
Sep 17, 2013

I love professor Thompson. His lectures are super interesting and he's pretty funny. His tests are half book and half lecture, so you absolutely need to get the book, although it doesn't need to be the newest edition. Tests aren't too hard as long as you read the book and paid attention in class. Over all one of my favorite professors so far.

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Nov 15, 2013

His tests are half book, half lecture. I got a terrible grade on the first test, but ended up with a B in the class because I visited him in office hours. Go to the study sessions if you are struggling with the tests. (Helpful Hint: The tests get easier over time, the last one is cake.)

3.0
4.0
HIST150
Dec 11, 2013

dont get this professor unless your really interested in history. he makes his class way harder than the rest of the history 150 classes. hes nice, the lectures are long and boring. the tests are hard, you study your notes yet the tests are alot different

4.0
4.0
HIST456
Oct 22, 2014

I loved this class. If you're interested in modern European history, take this class. I learned so much. Dr. Thompson is super helpful and really funny and engaging. This was by far my favorite class so far! You need to do the reading, and work hard on the project, but if you do, you'll do well in the class.

5.0
2.0
150
Nov 11, 2014

He is one of the better history professors. He is funny keeps things interesting. Lots of opportunity for extra credit! His tests are 50% lecture 50% book so READ!

4.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Mar 23, 2015

He is always willing to help if you ask for it, his class is set up with 4-5 tests throughout the semester and 2 quizzes, those are your only grades, so you have to do well on them. Tests are 50% book and 50% lecture, pretty easy overall but you must read. I would recommend, he is also funny and tries to keep lecture light and enjoyable.

4.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: B
May 1, 2015

Tests are over 12 lecture and 12 book. Does not go over textbook material in class so you have to make sure you read and take notes or you won't pass. His multiple choice questions can be difficult esp. the ones with answers of A & B, A & C, A,B,&C, None of the above, etc. Gives multiple extra credit opportunities. Lectures are interesting

5.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Aug 21, 2015

If you read the sections that Dr. Thompson assigns, and take notes in lecture, then there is no reason why you cant get an A in the class. He often tells the class, during lecture, what the extra credit test questions will be.

4.0
5.0
HIST150
Nov 2, 2015

Lectures are long but interesting. If you don't want to invest time to read don't take the class. If you don't read you won't pass.

4.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Nov 9, 2015

He makes it clear that the tests are half lecture and half reading, so if you don't read and/or don't go to class, you will not pass. He tries to make his lectures interesting and he's pretty funny too. He loves class questions so don't be afraid to ask if you're confused.

5.0
3.0
HIST150
Nov 10, 2015

Interesting teaching style; Thompson depicts information and events of relevance and presents them in a very unique way; How does/can one influence, influence another. His lectures break down historical events and applies them to possible theories and influences but is very careful with his words when differentiated credible information with theory

4.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: A-
Nov 12, 2015

Dr. Thompson had tough tests, but he really cares about the subject he teaches. Over the semester you'll get to know what things he has accomplished and he really knows what he's talking about. He claims the first exam is super hard (I got an A) but if you study you will do fine. Listen to the lectures and you'll get a good grade.

4.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: C+
Dec 8, 2015

Loved professor Thompson although I hate history at all. He is very interesting to listen to and cracks jokes all the time. The tests for this class are based half off of the book and half off of the lecture, so if you do not read then nine times out of ten you will receive a C. Makes you work for an A, but does provide 30 points in extra credit.

5.0
2.0
HIST150
Grade: A+
Dec 28, 2015

I LOVED Dr. Thompson! He has a great sense of humor, even at his own expense, & shares about his interesting life. (not sure how he ended up in boring IN.) Write down the things he says about his past or his family- extra credit Qs! You DO need to read, but your cushion is up to 30 ec points for going to an event & writing a 1 pg explanation. EASY.

5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: A-
Apr 10, 2016

Dr. Thompson is a solid teacher with interesting lectures. There aren't a lot of assignments, mainly test. YOU NEED to at least read the major topics in the book as much of it isn't covered in class and his tests are 50% lecture and 50% reading. Tests are pretty easy to get a B on, but you'll have to write a solid essay on the test to get an A.

4.0
4.0
HIST152
Grade: A-
Apr 25, 2016

He is a great teacher. He keeps you engaged most of the time, and he was born in Africa so he has a slight accent. His accent does not make him hard to understand at all, though. He doesn't give out homework, only tests and a couple of quizzes. Extra credit options ALL THE TIME. READ THE BOOK, his tests are always right from the book.

4.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: B
Nov 1, 2017
Would take again

So here's the thing. He's a great prof, but the class is 50% book and 50% lecture, which is a LOT of reading outside of class and also makes it mandatory to go to class. He is beyond helpful during office hours, and offers extra credit to make up for everyone failing the first test. He's a great prof, just a lot of work for a procrastinator like me

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
4.0
4.0
HIS150
Grade: B
Nov 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Professor Thompson is a GREAT teacher! He makes lectures interesting and easy to pay attention to. The only downfall is that the exams are half lecture and half reading so you absolutely have to read. He is very approachable when it comes to asking for help and he offers extra credit on all tests and outside of class for bonus reports.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
4.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: C+
Dec 4, 2017
Wouldn't take again

When he says read the textbook he truly means it. If you do not read you will fail the tests. His tests are hard but he gives you most of the material you need while the other half is in the assigned reading. There is also many chance for extra credit.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
4.0
3.0
HIS150
Grade: A-
Dec 6, 2017
Would take again

He is a very hilarious teacher but you can not have any electronics in his class. But you need to read the book and attend the lectures to get a good grade on the tests. He does allow extra credit. Also he keeps you updates and his syllabus is precised too.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
HIS150
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2017
Would take again

Funny guy. Need to read the assigned textbook readings as well as take notes during lecture to pass the tests. Always willing to help you during office hours with how to properly take notes. Tests and quizzes are all the points of his course but he gives extra credit on both and 30 extra credit points for other stuff. A fun and challenging course.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: C-
Dec 14, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Prof Thompson is a great guy and makes jokes but if you are not good in history DO NOT take his class. It is super hard and you HAVE to do the reading to pass the tests. The reading is long and the lectures are boring most the time. He is a great guy overall and gives 30 points extra credit but I would not recommend him. No Study guides or help.

Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
Tests are tough
5.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: A-
Dec 14, 2017
Would take again

If you love history you will love Professor Thompson. He honestly loves his job and will communicate with his students effectively. Going to class is required because most of what he says is on the tests. He gives good opportunities for extra credit. His lectures are far from boring because he makes them interesting and he is hilarious.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
4.0
HIST150
Dec 20, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Thompson is very passionate about history and he really knows his stuff. Your grade is based entirely on tests and quizzes (no homework). Reading all the material and attending all the lectures is crucial because his tests are 50% book / 50% lecture. He's very funny and even though I don't like history, I enjoyed the class.

Get ready to read
Hilarious
TEST HEAVY
3.0
5.0
HIST150
Grade: C-
Apr 9, 2018
Wouldn't take again

If you absolutely LOVE history then maybe he is for you, but if you are like me and don't really like history then I suggest you NOT to take him. His tests are 50% lecture and 50% readings BUT you do not get a study guide and it is hard to keep up with readings because he assigns over 60 pages to read, sometimes 100.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
TEST HEAVY
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: A
May 10, 2018
Would take again

Thompson is an amazing lecturer. His tests are half lecture, half reading so you have to both attend class and stay on top of the reading. There's one paper over a novel, but most of the grades come from the exams (which have built-in extra credit). You do have to study for these exams, but they aren't super difficult. One of my favorite profs!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: Rather not say
Nov 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He was a great teacher and can really help if you reach out to him; however the class is really tough. The exams are half lecture and half textbook so you HAVE to read the textbook and go to class. If not, then it's hard to pass the class. I also don't like history which made the class harder for me.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
B-
Nov 7, 2018
Would take again

Absolutely adore this man. His lectures are fun and he interacts with his students a lot. If you pay attention and take notes and read the text book, its an easy pass. Available if you need help amd he holds study sessions with his TAs. Also helps you learn how to take notes. He's pretty funny when he wants to be. By far my favorite professor.

Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
Respected
5.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A-
Nov 12, 2018
Would take again

He's amazing! I hate history, but this professor really gets into it and you can tell he cares. The class is hard, but if you go to class and pay attention, he's willing to work with you to make sure you get the grade you want. He's funny and tells amazing stories. If you have to take history this is a great professor.

Hilarious
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A-
Dec 28, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Thompson is very passionate about what he teaches. I found most of his lectures to be some what interesting. It would be hard to pass this class if you skip often. Read the textbook! He tests over material discussed both in class and in the textbook. Also, I found his review sessions held before exams to be quite helpful.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: A
Apr 17, 2019
Would take again

Thompson is an amazing professor, he is extremely passionate about his subject and his lectures really bring you in and make you interested. He's always involving students and provides extra-credit opportunities to raise your grade. If you read the book and pay attention to the lectures you will do well on the tests, and the quizzes are easy.

Respected
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
HIST150
Nov 6, 2019
Would take again

Thompson loves what he teaches and shows that through lectures. He assigns a lot of reading outside of class and only grades tests. You have 3 extra credit opportunities, you can get up to 30 points. If you don't think you are a good test taker DO NOT TAKE! Go to his office hours!!

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Caring
3.0
5.0
HIST150
Grade: B
Nov 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This class was very difficult but the professor does his best. There's a lot of material he has to cover so get ready to READ. Almost 100 pages of textbook reading each chapter, and you have to read or else you'll fail because the tests are 50% lecture and 50% book. His tests are super hard too. If you can get an easier professor, DO IT!

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2019
Would take again

I love this Professor! I HATE history and he made me want to come to class! I have found a new love for history. His test are straight forward, but you DO have to read the textbook. The exams are half lecture. half textbook. He gives you around 6 bonus points per exam. He makes history interesting and fun and only teaches what you NEED to know.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2019
Would take again

Dr. Thompson is very intelligent and at times humorous and witty. His grading criteria are clear and he is always available to help students. You HAVE to read the textbook to pass his class. The tests require you to have taken good notes from the textbook and lectures, but if you put in the work, youll do well.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
HIST152
Grade: B
Mar 26, 2020
Would take again

He gave absolutely brilliant lectures and he is very interactive with the class. The class is only graded by a handful of tests that are quite difficult so you have to be on the ball and nail each test every time. The class was also extremely textbook heavy

Respected
Get ready to read
Test heavy
5.0
5.0
HIST150
Apr 7, 2020
Would take again

I loved his lectures! He found a way to make western civ really interesting and engaging. I also loved how much opportunity for involvement and participation there was despite the class being a large lecture.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
HIST152
Grade: B
Apr 9, 2020
Would take again

Thompson is amazing. He genuinely cares about all of his students and the material. His tests are about 60/40% lecture and textbook. He managed to cover over 500 years of history in a semester in great detail, and answered questions amazingly. If you get a chance to take anything with Dr. Thompson, DO IT! You won't regret it.

Respected
Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
4.0
H200
Grade: A+
May 3, 2020
Would take again

I really liked Professor Thomspon, he clearly really cares about his students and does a great job as meeting up or answering emails if you have questions. He's also pretty funny in class but he did assign a lot of papers to read. Usually, one every class and I had 4 article reviews, 1 book review and an annotated bibliography.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
So many papers
3.0
4.0
HIST152
Grade: B-
Jun 10, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Professor Thompson genuinely wanted the student to leave having learned something. The class was very test, lecture, and reading heavy, though. You had to want to learn it. He was tough yet offered guidance.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2020
Would take again

Thompson is a lot of fun and his lectures are never boring. You have to do the reading because he doesn't cover everything in class. But if you do the reading then the questions on those topics are very easy. Exams are not hard if you pay attention and did the reading. Very fun guy with lots of great stories.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2021
Would take again

Thompson is one of the best professors I've had while at Ball State! He is always willing to help you out if you have any questions and he has great lectures. There is a lot of reading as you have to read the textbook, otherwise you won't pass his tests because there are questions about info in it. There are 2 books to read that are good books.

Accessible outside class
Get ready to read
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: B+
May 6, 2021
Would take again

Professor Thompson makes sure you understand the material to the best of you ability. You will have to read because each exam covers info from lectures and textbook. There are essays and multiple choice on every exam, but if you pay attention you will be fine. There are review sessions before every exam and Prof. Thompson will meet w/ you whenever.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: C+
Dec 7, 2021
Would take again

He lectures for a whole class, and his stuff never was super engaging or interesting. He covers specific things in class, but you'll need to read the book for broad context to pass his tests. The tests in general are long and sort of hard to read. He does offer 30 extra credit points for doing pretty short tasks.

Accessible outside class
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2021
Would take again

Dr. Thompson is awesome! For a large lecture hall, he found ways to make class engaging. He covers a lot of content at a reasonable pace, especially for an entry-level class. This guy is hilarious, I learned a lot about bicycles and the french during this class as well! All for the Marxist revolution on the administration building he jokes about:)!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
HIST471
Mar 30, 2022
Would take again

Professor Thompson is an orator in his classes. The materials and assignments are clear, as well as engaging; he is also easily available for clarification. Make sure you do the reading because weekly quizzes make up 20% of your grade. From movie night with pizza included to clemency in attendance, Thompson shows he cares about students.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
HIST152
Apr 19, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Felt like it was a 400 level class

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: B
Apr 26, 2022

Professor Thompson is very passionate about history and shows it in his lectures. This course is based on his lectures and readings from the textbook. The test can be difficult if you do not read or come to class. There are up to 24 extra points in this class. There are also two novels that you have to read and take quizzes over as well.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: B
Jun 8, 2022
Would take again

Professor is very interested in what he is teaching. Class is based largely on student participation, and is more enjoyable if you join in too. Reading the textbook is not entirely mandatory but definitely helpful. Tests are difficult but manageable. Attendance is not mandatory, but definitely helps. Overall, great class.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Dec 1, 2022
Would take again

Thompson is a great professor who has been teaching this course for 20+ years. 50% of tests are from the textbook and 50% from lectures. His lectures are interesting and engaging and he gives bonus points on all tests. He also gives extra credit reports. If you love history you will love him.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2022
Would take again

Exams are very unique, it takes a lot of reading and lecture listening. But it is very passable as long as you put in work. He gives extra credit opportunities through single-page reports and he finally allowed devices during lectures.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
HIST152
Grade: A
Jan 5, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Thompson is so passionate and knowledgeable about history! Genuinely a nice guy and students would stay after to chat with him about their concerns. He was communicative over email so there was so confusion on anything. Tests are about 50% lecture and readings, so take good notes and read the textbook pages assigned and you will get an A!

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
HIST471
Grade: B-
May 9, 2023

Strict grader who focused more on prose than any English teacher. Was never clear on what he wanted, just gave basic and crap directions to use, no rubric to know the specifications of what he wanted. Reading was terrible and class meetings boring. Wouldn't recommend such a tedious and overall uninteresting teacher.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
1.0
HIS150
Grade: A
Aug 31, 2023
Would take again

Enthusiastic, taught me how to take notes. I would recommend going to class and doing the reading. Only graded on a few online exams. Great study sessions from the TAs and the prof.

Amazing lectures
Graded by few things
4.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: A-
Jan 9, 2024
Would take again

This class was WAY harder than it needed to be. You have no homework in this class, your entire grade is made up of 5 exams and 2 quizzes over books you need to buy and read. Exams are 50% lecture material and 50% textbook material. They were oddly difficult. You HAVE to attend class to pass and read the readings. Very genuine prof. though!

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
HIST152
Grade: B
Apr 30, 2024
Would take again

If you read the assigned material for each test and attend lectures then you will do well. Tests typically have multiple choice & short essay questions. When he says put as much info as possible in your essay question, don't skimp out or your score will suffer! Overall, his lectures were very engaging though & I would take a class with him again.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
4.0
HIST497-499
Grade: A-
May 3, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Thompson is always great to take classes with, however, he demands a lot from students. Lots of reading and four large essays, which he grades very thoroughly. Genuinely, a great guy who wants his students to be better writers and historians. He is picky on writing. Participation in class is important. Take a class with him! He's awesome!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Gives good feedback
2.0
3.0
HIST471
Grade: B
Jan 23, 2025

I've never had a history professor who was so picky about my essays while having such a poor rubric for it and unclear standards. The class average for two out of three of our essays was 67.7%. And if you speak up in class and say an answer he's not looking for, he looks at you like you're stupid. Not my favorite professor despite the cool content.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Beware of pop quizzes
5.0
3.0
HIST150
Grade: A+
Apr 29, 2025
Would take again

Professor Thompson was a fantastic prof. Clearly very passionate about topic and had engaging and interesting lectures. Available outside of class for any concerns. Only grades were 5 online exams but you could use textbook on them. Kind of a ridiculous amount of reading for an intro class, though—40-50+ pages per unit.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
HIST150
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 20, 2025

The lectures in this class are great, however the textbook reading is ridiculous. There was a chapter we had to read over 70 pages for. And if you don't read the book be prepared to fail the tests, which are the only grades you will have. Yes, he has study sessions, but they are overall unhelpful. I'm tired of reading this god awful textbook.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
HIS150
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2025
Would take again

very interesting lectures, presents material very clearly, incredibly pleasant to interact with, just stay on top of textbook readings and pay attention in class and it'll be an easy credit

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Graded by few things
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

49%

Textbook Required

0%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 47 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
B (10)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(19)B(12)C(5)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(11)
Based on 51 reported grades
A: 16
B: 10
A-: 9
C+: 3
Common Tags
Get ready to read (31)
Skip class? You won't pass. (15)
Test heavy (10)
Lecture heavy (10)
Hilarious (8)
Amazing lectures (8)
EXTRA CREDIT (6)
Tough grader (6)
Rating Trend

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Ratings by Course

HIST202

5.0

(1)

HIST

5.0

(1)

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5.0

(1)

HISTHIST

5.0

(1)

HIST4

5.0

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Difficulty by Course

HISTORY150

5.0

HST150

4.5

HIST471

4.3

HIST202

4.0

WESTERNCIV

4.0

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