4.4
Quality2.8
Difficulty72%
Would Retake169
Reviews72%
Would Retake
169
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
118
4
25
3
9
2
9
1
8
What Students Say
“He's an extraordinary teacher with a love for knowledge”
RS150 - 5.0 rating“I believe he is retired now, but if not I would highly recommend him to anyone”
FCS340 - 5.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
67%
Textbook Required
22%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
A-
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Declining
-0.27 avg changeRatings by Course
REL150
5.0
(5)REL101
5.0
(1)REL360
5.0
(1)ETHICS
5.0
(1)FCS340
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
RS100HON
5.0
REL360
4.0
RS345
3.5
ETHICS
3.0
RS204
2.9
Reviews (169)
He is a harsh but, fair professor. He is very enthusiastic about his subject matter and is excited to share learning with students
He is very enthusiastic about what he is teaching. He has his beliefs, but never forcess them upon anyone who does not wish to hear them.
He's friendly and enthusiastic, maybe a little to much. No hard exams. We had 3 research papers and we choose the topic, which makes it real easy. The exam we did have was blue book but he gives us the topics a week in adavance to prepare. Doesn't take roll but remembers when you're absent. He's super helpful though!!
Can be very extreme. Really knows his bible though. Has 2 interpretive papers due and one creative project. Really cares about his students and wants you to be entertained. His class is definently doable
Great Professor, one of the very few I've found at CSUN. He's tough though, not an easy A, you'll have to work for it. Worthwhile info, I've learned a lot. You HAVE to go to ALL classes though if you really want to understand the stuff. 1 paper and midterm and final are blubook essays he gives you a week to prepare for.
He's one of the best teachers I’ve had. He's very interested in the subject and enjoys teaching, which makes the students enjoy learning. If you attend class and take good notes the tests are a piece of cake and you won’t have to buy the book. There's a lot of assignments and online reading, but it's an easy class. I recommend him to everyone.
Excellent professor. He is a newbie at CSUN and lucky to have him. Very enthusiastic about the subject and presents many sides of arguments. Very colorful as well so it's enjoyable.
Great teacher. Colorful. Haha! Cares about all his students, doesn't play favorites. Attend class!...even if they do get boring. =/ Too many papers and writing tests for a level 100 class, but he grades very graciously. He's not teaching at CSUN anymore though, which is sad. I would have loved to take him again...
One of the best teachers I've ever had. He cares about hsi work and his students. He works you hard, but he wants you to succeed. If you get the chance to take him go for it. He is amazing. He is one crazy white guy.
great teacher
No Comments
He is one of the funniest professors I've ever had. He is so enthusiastic and entertaining! He's one of those people that knows everything! He's always willing to help, and cares about his students a lot!
He is THE best teacher EVER! He is always there to help no matter what. He's always an e-mail away
An amazing teacher! highly recommend him!!7 short papers of 2 pages required for homework... Just go to class regularly and do ur homework on time.. even if u cant, and email him a valid reason for not being able to do so, he will accept it next time u come... one 10 pg project based on a movie... and amazing teacher over all!
Great Teacher! really funny too.
He is an AWESOME professor.. you have to read alot, and be ready for class lectures, but he makes the course very fun.. Hes wacky and crazy at times, but can make the text that is otherwise ridiculously boring.. very fun. DEFINITELY TAKE HIM!!
AMAZING! keeps class relevent to current world issues. very clear and a little wacky. will always help and respond to e-mails IMMEDIATLY!!! obiviously cares about the students. lots of writing but fair grader and if you need an extension you will always get it if u ask.
Very interesting class. One of the few professors that truly understands what teaching is about and shows fascination in the students learning and response to the material. That is why the only course work is a series of essays you have to write that respond to what the class has made you think. Lectures are a bit messy, but very worthwhile class!
He is one of the greatest and most fun professors ever! He's always making jokes and keeping the class entertained. He's also very willing to help always. I recommend him greatly!
The Best!! He changed my life. I learned more in his class than any other of my hardest courses. Makes learning religion interesting and fun.
Such a GREAT professor! Truly loves teaching and genuinely cares about his students. Highly recommended.
He is a great teacher...before coming to this class i had no idea that i was going to learn so much.... he is very respectful teacher and knows what he is talking about.
If I had to sum up Dr. Findlay in a sentence: He truly cares about his students' learning and their success. If you do not do well in this class, you have not taken advantage of office hours or you did not do what was asked. He is truly an inspiring teacher and shows that his students' interests are at heart. TAKE HIM IF YOU HAVE THE CHANCE!
Interesting, funny, wierd, what more could you want out of a professor? Great guy, makes the class as fun as it could be. Grades consisted of 7 short essays (2pgs) 1 midterm assignment/research paper and 2 in class tests which he gives all the questions beforehand. Got an A- in his class, highly recommended if CSUN still allows him to teach LOL.
He is great! He is a little heavy on the work load, but as long as effort is put into it he'll give decent grades. He loves discussion. Show up to class and do the home work and you're golden.
A lot of reading and writing but he deff tries his best to keep you awake! flexible w/ late papers and missing class if given prior notice he wont hold it against you. Makes religion pretty intresting this class is truly an (eye opener) he can be funny & get get extreemley passionate with his lectures weird at times but keeps ur attention!
DEFINITALLY RECOMMENDED. !!!EXTREMELY!!!! PASSIONATE ABOUT HIS WORK. FUN CLASS. CARES ABOUT HIS STUDENTS. PATIENT AND FRIENDLY.
Great Professor, really cares about each student. Class requires ALOT of reading, but you can get by w/o doing most of it, you just have to study up alot for the midterm and final, but the textbook is very helpful for that.Makes class fun, and sounds like a jazz radio DJ. Fun Guy, fun class.Be prepared for some serious learning( thats a positive)!
Very helpful teacher! If you're struggling, he'll be more than happy to help you. He's also very open to conversation and sharing his personal experiences with yours. You have to do a fair share of textbook reading and Online Course Reserve reading, but it definitely all pays off. Most important: take lots of lecture notes!
You will definitely come out of this class with a huge understanding of religion. YOU WILL LEARN.........AND HE IS FAIR
AWESOME EXPERIENCE great professor.
Professor Findlay has a very domineering voice that you can't help but listen to. You'd want to respect him, because he has a lot to say. He's very humorous, it makes the class go by faster.
The class is way boring, but it's an easy A. Just show up to class and pretend to pay attention, and you'll be fine.
He is a good professor. He knows what he is talking about and understands that the students in his 150 class are not coming in with a intense understanding of what religion is. TAKE HIS CLASS, HE AWESOME, AND FUNNY!
Very funny teaching. He has at least 3 diff voices that he uses while lecturing but knows the material very well. Attending class is a must. Make sure u do ALL of the article readings because they are useful on midterm/final.
Very detailed. Has alot to say. Very Passionate. RECOMMENDED! Very fun in class discussions
Professor Findlay is AmaZinG!! He never loses anyone's attention. He teaches the material in such a unique and interesting way! He makes you think, and if you're in RS101, by the end of the class, you'll "learn" how to "read" the Bible critically, rather than just spiritually, as is tradition. He's so understanding. LOve him! He's too funny!
humorous, very intellectual, helpful, just great!
i drooped this class after only a few days because this professor was bashing everyone's religion and it made me uncomfortable. Would NEVER recommend to anyone!
Dont take this Professor! For a 100 class, it is too much work, there are so many readings and they are all boring and very long! His midterm and final are also hard! His class discussions are boring!
Good teacher who ensures you connect to the topics, includes you, papers are about what has stuck with you not just repeating the work. Don't get insulted by anything he says because he always takes a position based on what he is teaching not what he might believe, it's all to make YOU make your own thoughts and arguments and be able to say why.
Professor Findlay is the best! the class is not hard at all because he wants feedback from what you have learned and not just a summary of the readings. he doesn't bash out peoples religions as one of the comments said. he is a wise man with a lot of experience.
At first this professor can seem a little intense, but if you stick it out, you won't be dissappointed! Easy work, fun class.
Excellent professor. Don't fall behind on the readings because you need them to pass the midterm and final. Don't be intimidated by him. He seems a little intense at first, but after a few classes he'll be nothing. PS-save your midterm study guide. It totally helps with the final exam.
Really awesome professor! He's really passionate about his work and you'll definitely learn a lot. He cares about his students so don't ditch his class! It's worth it.
He is the best! Has me laughing everyday with his comments. However, he still maintains a professional teaching method. Loved this class =)
Best professor to have for an early Monday class for sure! Very respectful, witty, educated and understanding of everything yet you go through everything in the textbook and I never thought a religion class would be something I looked forward too. Take this professor!
Very passionate about what he teaches. Lectures are interesting and very informative. There is lots of reading but it is not boring material. At first he seems unapproachable but after a few classes you'll see that he is willing to help if you ask for help. dont hesitate in asking for help or to clarify anything. 3 easy papers.i would recommend!!!!
Findlay definitely expresses a wide variety of knowledge amoung different religions. His teaching methods, however, are somewhat bland. He has too much of an ego to let any of his students get a full sentence in even when he asks you a question himself! I wouldn't recommend this class to those that dislike reading and applying what you have read.
excellent professor. very passionate. Lots of readings but they are not boring. He is very helpful. The best professor i have had at CSUN.
BEST PROFESSOR I HAVE EVER HAD!
This Professor does know his stuff. Enough so that he very easily places propaganda about religion within the class at ease. In fact I thought the class would be a history class of religion. However we spent the majority of the class disproving inconsequential aspects of the Bible. Do not take this class if you actually want to learn.
Best Professor I had at CSUN! He is very helpful and he is a great teacher. Lots of reading, but as long as you read you will do great!
I loved him, he really broadened my horizons ! :) at first I was iffy, but after a few classes I was sold !Not super easy,but doable . Take him !
Great professor, but you have to work hard to earn a good grade. He teaches a very interesting course, and he is also interesting himself. If you take him, you'll know what I mean. I recommend taking him, you'll like his style of teaching. Remember to do the reading, he'll like you more for it. I got an A for his fall '11 course :)
HE IS AMAZING! i love him..he i my favorite teacher everrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
Expected a boring prof. But his overall enthusiasm, good humor, and EXCELLENT teaching absolutely proved me wrong. Always read for upcoming class. No HW just Midterm/final w/ free response booklets. He gives u the questions beforehand, write out answers + memorize then when taking the tests, u can use ur bible for help. LOVED THIS PROF AND CLASS :D
Great Professor!!! I highly recommend him. Read all materials before classes and if your absent go to his office hours. He is very exciting and you will definitely learn a lot! He is very animated.
Love this professor! He really opened my eyes to new things. He is extremely hilarious, always makes my day the moment I walk into his class. Read the material before his class. If you are not going to be there, just send his an email. Definetly recomend! Take him if you have a chance!!!
every class is a show that will keep you at the edge of your seat. this guy is nuts (but in the best way, of course). I highly recommend Dr. Findlay. Nice guy, very smart, and can relate to kids. This class will evoke some seriously deep thought and introspection
honestly, this professor is crazy but you can totally notice the passion he brings to his students, sometimes gets scary but this class is overall easy, even if u fail a few quizzes, he gives a CRAPload of EXTRA credit.He does take attendance very seriously though,but even if u take this class early, he will keep u awake :) i liked him
Findlay is... interesting to say the least. He will do everything in his power to keep you interested. He's always willing to help you out when you need it, though he is the tough love kind of guy. He'll draw the answers out of you... Be warned, He insults everyone, even himself. So if you get offended easily you might want to be prepared for that.
I absolutely LOVED Professor Findlay. He by far has been one of my favorite professors yet. He is very enthusiastic in his teachings, and keeps it entertaining for his students. He does tend to cuss a lot though lol and he can be insulting but it is always pretty hilarious. Great professor, you'll enjoy him!!
Professor Findlay is a great professor. He makes the class very interesting and does his best to keep you excited and awake. If you pay attention and do the readings you will be fine.
Prof. Findlay is HILARIOUS and keeps the class interesting since the subj. is totally boring. He is a fair grader. Email savvy. Short essays, 2 debates, a research paper, midterm+final...attendance is mandatory. MUST pay attention to his lectures and read the articles he posts. He's definitely opinionated...Got an A. Take him!
I appreciate his efforts to keep the class "fun" or engaged, but he may go a little overboard. He's silly, and sometimes it gets in the way of the learning experience. I tried to tolerate it, but it became too much. I dropped after a week or so.
He is the craziest professor ever but I loved his class. Cares very much for his students. I highly recommend taking his class you won't regret it. Just do the reading which isn't much and you'll pass.
He's so funny which makes the class fun and entertaining. He tries to keep everyone engaged in the class and has a very interesting sense of humor. He's very enthusiastic and genius!! I would totally recommend him !
A great professor to study the world of religion with! Incredibly funny and understanding! If you can, take Professor Findlay!
This was one of my favorite classes. Professor Findlay is hilarious. He's crazy, but it makes the lectures much more interesting. Its pretty easy to pass, just read, do all the HW and you'll pass.
Amazing professor! Dr. Findlay really goes into depth in his lectures, just enough so you understand. He constantly calls on students to discuss in lectures (so make sure you do the readings). Be sure to take a lot of notes. Readings due everyday; 5 short essays; Midterm and final essays (in class); research paper analyzing a movie of your choice.
Great teacher! He tends to use foul language but it only makes the class comfortable. About 9 media examples (article reflections with logic and religion) About three essays (3-5 pages) Random quizzes but if you miss that day, he'll email it to you to make it up (EASY A!!) Midterm in class (he gives study guide) No final test just final portfolio.
Professor Findlay is honestly one the best teachers I've has at CSUN. There was never a dull moment. He's an extraordinary teacher with a love for knowledge. His goal ins't to throw text or info, but to help learn to think as an individual. He teaches you to think outside the box.
Great class, wonderful teacher!
He is very animated during his "lectures". Be prepared to get called on frequently as he called on me at least two times each class period. Sometimes he will talk in accents or use different octaves to keep students interested. His class is not hard but he always makes sure that you are completely accurate in your answers.
The material is pretty boring but he tries to keep you interested. You can NOT miss class and expect to pass. A LOT OF ASSIGNMENTS. One media example due every class meeting and three portfolios and three essays are turned in by the end of the semester. Kind guy but you either hate him or love him, he's a character.
he is fuuny sometime, but most of the time you will get bored in his class. he goes off the topic and start talking about something esle. about 3 essays and 8 media example that due weekly . he doesn't give enough time to do the essays or the media example.
GET READY TO WORK IF YOU TAKE HIS CLASS! 5 essays, lots of reading and homework, boring, sleepy lectures, all tests are in essay format, group presentation, weekly journal writing. Online class requirement: must watch weekly online - if you don't watch it live, you have to watch it later within 24 hours and e-mail him your synopsis and response.
Such a cool and funny guy! He's extremely knowledgeable in the field as well. The subject was pretty boring but he made it worth while to come to class. As long as you do the work well, there should be no problem getting an A!
Dr. James Findlay is one the best professors at CSUN. He gives good lectures, assigns good books, and lots of writings. The exams are mid term and final which are in essay type not multiple choice. He is a serious yet fun instructor, not only learn also enjoy every minute of his knowledge and expertise. I am blessed for the knowledge received.
Great professor; he's very passionate about the subject & his beliefs. He'll answer all questions. If you miss class you'll be lost during lecture and he WILL pick on you. Also deducts points if you're absent. DO NOT daze off because he WILL put you on the spot. Gives hw once a week, no final but there are quizzes & 3 essays.
Professor Findlay is amazing, he tries crack jokes whenever he can. His lectures are usually interesting and he is always willing to help you. He gives a word for word study guide for his exams which makes tests easier. Take him and you won't regret it.
Professor Findlay likes to engage with the class. If you do, it makes the class a little more manageable. He lectures and gives a couple papers and a few tests. I would take him again. I definitely learned from him.
Professor Findlay is very enthusiastic about his profession and expects the same. Be prepared for lots and lots of readings.
Professor Findlay is one of those professors you will refer back to your children, he is very fond of FCS and knowledgeable. I believe he is retired now, but if not I would highly recommend him to anyone. Lots of readings and papers, but it is manageable! Easy A!
Show up and do what you're told and you'll pass with flying colors. Even better if you actually read before class, and it's not much.
This guy is the man! Really into the subject and very engaging. Some might say he's a bit weird or over the top, but he's just passionate. He teaches, not lectures. Reading every class with Moodle posts. 5 short essays and 1 10 pg. paper. 5-6 essay questions for midterm and final. Show up, read, do the work and you'll be fine. Highly recommend.
Dr. Findlay is a character for sure, so don't expect to try and sleep in class. Be prepared to be called on multiple times, but it isn't too bad. He is passionate about teaching and cares about all of his students. If you do the work, listen, and pay attention, you'll pass easily. I loved this class, and would absolutely take it again.
Hands down, one of the most inspiring, passionate professors you will ever meet at Csun. Dr. Findlay does not only lecture the subject he is teaching but he explains everything in a way that you can interpret as a fun way of learning. He does take attendance so go to class. Do the online work and papers and you're good to go. Great class, easy A.
He has 3 short essays about the readings. Theres an online debate but its just a moddle post and a response. A groups presentation that is uploaded for the class to view. Online collab sessions where he just talks. And a major paper that it worth 20% of final grade. Always responds to emails, he's very helpful, and I would recommend.
I'm currently taking his class right now. He's great with communication via emails. He responds right away. He is patient and helpful as well. I feel so bad for not taking his class as seriously as I should have. He's a SUPER professor and I would recommend him :) Books: 1) Provided Online, 2) Leonard, Boff: Virtues For Another Possible World
He is extremely passionate about his subject, and he teaches it in a very engaging way. Expect a lot of work, but as long as you do it, you will be fine. His classes are interesting, and you will learn a lot. He is very eccentric and weird, but he pulls it off. I thought it was very fun taking his class.
Dr. Findlay is definitely the best professor I EVER had! I had his 9:30AM class and I thought I would fall asleep but his fun and intriguing lectures kept me awake! He is absolutely passionate about his subject and about the opinions of students. He is also quick and nice with email responses! I would SO retake this class if i had the chance.
He is very inspiring. His lectures are not just for passing the course, they will guide you through your life. Although there is a lot of reading, the class is amazing.
Professor Findlay is a character for sure, but he is very knowledgeable and truly inspirational. His lectures are fun and he makes the dry material interesting and easy to study. Lots of tests, one smaller assignment every week and multiple longer papers. I definitely got a lot out of this class.
Professor Findlay is the best professor I've had so far! He is very passionate about what he teaches and you will learn more than just what is in the textbook. There are weekly posts on Moodle and weekly readings. Five short papers are due throughout the semester. There is also one "major" project, a midterm, and a final.
Dr. Findlay is one of the best Religion Studies Professors at CSUN, the course itself is not very difficult. There is a lot of reading that needs to be done. Overall, he is a professor that cares about his students and wants them to pass unless you try really hard not to. The class was made very fun because of his passion towards teaching.
Professor Findlay really cares about his students, which makes his classroom a special place to learn. The course does have A LOT of reading. However, the assignments are reasonable.
Findlay is the best professor I have had at CSUN. He is extremely passionate about the material, he's even better than the textbook. I recommend going to office hours as often as you can. He is so unbelievably caring, for all of his students, I have never met a more genuine person. My advice is keep up with readings and do all of the moodle posts!
Findlay is one of my favorite professors I have ever had. Very helpful, engaging, and knowledgeable about the subject. I did work hard for my A but I found out that after fully understand the subject/assignment, the work was easy.
Findlay is amazing. His lectures are very detailed so if you show up to class and take notes, you'll be fine on the midterm and final. You have to write moodle posts but it's super interesting and fun if you actually read. There's a 10 page paper, which seems that it would be a lot but isn't. He has this amazing energy that makes class enjoyable.
Let's just say if you're looking for an interesting and different professor, he is the one. He's funny and you learn a lot from him and his lectures.
Lot's of difficult reading, but fear not, he goes out of his way to make sure each and every one of of his students understands the material. You will learn a LOT in this class. He is very adamant about people speaking up and owning their beliefs and opinions. You will never meet anyone like him! 100% would take again.
Very passionate and knowledgeable about the subject, but the readings are intense. You also have to type a paragraph on the reading before every class. His exams are all written, so it forces you to know the subject material rather well. His office hours are fun and he's pretty nice. Just participate and ask questions.
Began my M/W with him. Always put me in a good mood. He is so passionate and knowledgeable. He really values his students and tries to get to know them. This subject is very dense, but do the readings, the discussion posts, and participate in his class lectures and you will do fine. His class lectures help with the dense readings.
He really cares about each and everyone of his students. He is a really reasonable man. As long as you let him know you can't make it to class and ask for extension he'll give it you. He is a really unique professor and he's really out there. If you take him go in the class with an open mind.
Best teacher I've ever had!! I truly love this man. He is unbelievably crazy and funny. He keeps class interesting every day and is an easy grader. He really changed my life with this class. He is such an amazing person and the class inspired me to think in a more open and precise way. MUST TAKE!!! (p.s. he deserves a pepper for his personality!!)
Professor findlay is hands down one of my favorite professors. He is very caring. I was first scared that it was going to be a very hard class because of the amount of work. But, he is a very easy grader. His lectures were also very entertaining. I would recommend taking him.
Super easy going and helpful! Replies to emails quickly. Discussion posts twice a week and a weekly video chat, if you can't make it you rewatch the video chat he posts and email a response to him.
Good professor honestly, mildly offensive so beware. Very interactive class, he is a wild card you never know what James Findlay you'll get that day. Overall, he's good, better than other professors!
Dr. Findlay is an amazing professor. He really does care about his class by learning everyone's name if you show up for his online group video chat lectures. If you don't end up making it to the lecture or are unable to view it, he accepts attendance if you watch the lecture and respond to him in an email. Great class, highly recommend.
Professor James D Findlay is amazing beyond words can explain, definitely a Professor I would highly recommend to take Religious studies with. You can see the differentials in his teaching style opposed to other Professors on campus. He truly cares for his students and takes time out of his day to learn your name and last name.
Not transparent with grades.
LOTS of reading and writing for a 100 level class. If you're thinking of taking this class online, just know that he has online weekly meeting that you have to attend and watch. Makes you write a ten page reflection for a project that seems excessively long. Other than that, the course and professor are great.
Findlay's great, funny, and I really enjoyed going to his class! He plays the straight white man role a lot, but man clearly knows his stuff. Take plenty of notes for your journal! Don't worry about his papers; just don't summarize what you've learned in class and you'll get an A. Final word of advice: office hours can get you extra credit.
Prof. Findlay really cares about his students and is passionate about what he teaches. Be ready to read A LOT and to write 5 short essays, which is nothing to worry about. He also give out the study guide for the final/mid-term. It's an easy A class, but don't slack off on the readings or posts.
Very inspirational and if you dont feel like that about him thats okay, because he is still hilarious and a good person which makes his class very amusing and not a burden at all.
Professor Findlay truly is a professor that will make your first year at university one to remember. Findlay is an amazing professor who doesn't lecture off books or slides. His teaching style is to the point and clear, and addresses so much during classes. Be sure to take notes and engage in class, he finds individuality in everyone.
Best professor by far at CSUN. I've taken him twice for different classes. He is very understanding. Tells you EXACTLY what's on the test. Just do your homework and participate in class. It's an Easy A. He cares for each student and makes you feel special and unique.
Had him in Fall 2018. Definitely a talented professor. Like this guy knows his stuff, hes totally brilliant. The only thing is that hes a no filter type of guy and definitely has potential to make some people uncomfortable
He's a great teacher, he's really funny . Every few weeks theres a short essay due minimum 2 pages, super easy. only two test, midterm and final, he gives you the questions before hand. Overall I enjoyed this class, it was very entertaining and I learned a lot.
Great Professor! Really understanding and knows what he's doing! You have two discussion posts a week. Weekly video chat sessions, if you can't make it you do an email response. He's very clear as to what he wants. Responds to emails quickly. A couple quizzes and papers. Overall extremely easy and a really enjoyable class! 100% would recommend!
He is very nice & replies to emails fast. Consisted of 3 essays (short), random quizzes which are challenging, readings from the book and OUTSIDE sources that were ridiculously long, every week discussion post & media example. Zoom session is mandatory which is I guess useful. If you want an easy small amount of work course this isnt the course.
Professor Findlays class was not my fav. His quizzes are hard if you dont understand the material so dont take them if you need more help. He also has a live zoom session which you have to watch every week and they are long (1hr+). There is 3 short essays (3-5) pages which weren't that complicated but he does grade a little tougher than most
The first professor I ever had, and I'm glad. He's incredibly hilarious and has no filter. He just makes you think and that's a great quality to have. He's not a critical grader as long as you know what you're talking about. Take good notes during the lecture and participate and it's an easy A. He's really out there, I recommend taking his class
The subject is kind of boring but he is fantastic at keeping the class engaged with his hilariousness. He is very real and upfront. Actually make an effort to participate. There's one 10-paged analysis paper we have to write. He is quite reasonable because he gives the questions for the midterm and final a week before the exam date.
I took this Professor in Fall 2019. His lectures are both interesting and engaging! He might offer a lot of work, but once you understand what he is asking for for those assignments, they are not time consuming and the class becomes an easy A/B! He would also help everyone stay awake with his unique personality.
Best professor of all time. Super funny. Guides you all the way. Media examples and discussion posts every week along with a few quizzes. Just do the work. Attend the zoom meetings to understand everything. Take notes on every zoom just to keep it clear for you and have fun. No stress.
Overall Findlay is a good professor, his assignments seem long but you will get through it. The downside about him is his lectures can get kinda boring. Hes a good dude but I wish he makes his PowerPoints creative and not just typed words with lil effort. He hasnt graded any of my assignments since Fall semester started, I wish I knew my grade :(
a weekly assignment on a different article. I don't think prof. findlay is a bad prof, this is just an insanely hard class. overall incredibily difficult to get an A on an assignment. just a bad time overall
He grades very hard. Two discussions every week alone with a research assignment. A few tests but he grades way too hard, I tried for this class and I would not recommend taking his class.
do NOT take this professor. this is the last lower GE I needed completed at CSUN, and I'm a straight A business student but this is my hardest class!! A religious studies class shouldn't have more workload than business classes. The semester ends with 3 portfolios due, 2 essays, and a final... beyond stressful.
I was overwhelmed at first with the work-load every week but IT IS NOT THAT BAD! You just need to get used to it and prof. Findlay would give comments that are helpful so you can improve your media examples. Read the assigned readings before you watch the lectures so that you can understand the concepts better. No finals just a portfolio! :)
Great professor and super helpful when you have questions or are unclear about something. The course load can seem a lot at first, but you get used to it. A media example every week and a few discussions. You also have about 2-3 essays and quizzes throughout the semester. He is also a bit of a tough grader, but just do the work & you can get an A.
This class can be interesting, but the amount of work you'll be doing + how particular Findlay grades just sucks all the fun out of RS 204. You'll be given long readings, multiple discussion posts, a media example, a Zoom lecture, a Zoom lecture response, and quizzes (periodically) EVERY SINGLE WEEK. Avoid this class if you don't wanna go insane.
Yes, theres a lot of assignments, but the work itself isnt difficult. The material can be confusing, but he records lectures which explain everything in a simple, easy way. He also responds to emails quickly.
This class was very interesting and enjoyable because it challenged my thoughts and made me actively learn and engage with the material. Professor Findlay is respectful, honest, intelligent and relatable. He is the best professor I have had. I always looked forward to each class, and felt encouraged to participate.
Professor Findlay's R S 204 class was pretty easy. There are 10 weekly papers due throughout the semester, which could often be tedious, but only required about a few paragraphs each. I was in an asynchronous class of his during COVID-19, but his recorded lectures were very helpful. The textbook is dense, but his lectures explain it well.
DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS! HE GIVES WAY TOO MUCH WORK. HATED THIS CLASS. NEVER WILL I TAKE A CLASS BY JAMES FINDLAY AGAIN. NO! PLZ LISTEN TO ME AND DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!
So much unnecessary work. Expects many assignments to be done every week. This was an all online class and the times that projects were due were ridiculous and changed with every assignment.
Professor Findlay is a very good professor. He gives a good amount of work, which is expected from any professor. This class was interesting because it had to do with ethics and how people use it in their communities. Online was a decent setting. The tests are very thorough, so be sure to read and take notes!
Findlay was very thorough in his ideas and his expectations. Dont always hope he will give you a pass but he will push you to do better always. Gives amazing feedback on every assignment.
A warning for everyone who wants to take RS204 in the future: Prof. Findlay gives an excessive amount of homework. 2 discussions, a media example, and a quiz/essay due EVERY WEEK. There are very few days to complete these assignments so once he assigns it, you better start it. To those who do take this class, good luck to you. Youll need it.
Professor Findlay is one who truly cares about the subject he teaches, though, as many of the other reviews state, there is SO MUCH work assigned within a given week and so little time to get it all done I thought the amount of work was too much to truly grasp or enjoy the course. Don't recommend this class with a full-time schedule
Took his 204 class as an elective and it was not worth it. Very strict on formatting even if you make an accidental mistake he will give you a 0 and not let you change it. Instead of letting you express your thoughts on the pieces, he really only cares about formatting and not the ideas. Would not recommend to anyone even for credit.
Prof. Findlay genuinely wants his students to succeed. Although my class was completely virtual, his personality seemed so caring. He assigns a ton of readings every week...like up to 8 articles and asks for responses to each thing read. He's a relatively easy grader for a college professor. Assigned a 10-15 pg essay and a final in the last 2 weeks
Knows his stuff. Accessible outside of class. Follow the formatting and directions to a tee! Took this as an async class, but he seems very nice. Very specific with his feedback. Weekly media examples (article analysis), read textbook every week for discussion posts, portfolio is the final, a few quizzes, a few short essays. Straightforward class.
The only thing I liked about this professor was the organization of the class otherwise it was awful. I sent him multiple emails regarding the fact that he never graded any of my tests and he ignored them. His grading is hard and it is unclear what he wants. He would always tell me the same feedback for all of my essays.
Professor Findlay is extremely kind and understanding! The workload is heavy but it's manageable. Weekly reading & zoom discussion posts, 3 short essays, 1 midterm, 1 online debate, 1 group ppt, 1 major paper, & Final exam. He's an easy grader and accepts late work if you communicate with him. 100% recommend if you're willing to put in the work.
Amazing Professor, truly cares about your grade and offers plenty of feedback as well as being very accessible outside of class hours. Very clear on assignments and will help you anyway he can.
Professor Findlay is awesome !! Very nice man, highly recommend! Truly cares about his students success. Easy to reach and communicate with!
James is a excellent instructor and is confident in his field. He gives great illustrations on the assignments & readings. Although, there is a bit of reading to do before attending his lectures. But his presentation of material is well done and easy to follow. The material is well suited for the course and his class lectures are encapsulating.
Weekly discussions, very tedious for a class that's level 100. We have to write 5 2-4 page essays, and one 10-15 page essay. Seriously?For a lvl 100 class we should not be doing this. We also have 2 exams. I expected this class to be easier but he makes it difficult for some reason. He is an okay grader. Just devote 4 hours weekly into this class .
Prof Findlay teaches through conversation, rather than just talking at you. There are weekly papers due to analyze articles with 1 midterm and a portfolio of weekly articles at the end of the year (no final exam). Not a class to be skipping as lectures are where the material is learned. Take Notes ! Best prof ive had in 3 semesters.
I finished my degree this fall semester and this class was easily one of the worst classes out of all of them. 2 weekly discussions, 5 2-4 page essays, 1 10-15 page essay, 1 mid term, 1 final, 300 pages to read every week and he was a difficult grader. This class had no business being this difficult for a 100 level elective. Avoid this at all costs
I took this class with the promise of it being fully a-synchronous, and received weekly assignments which wouldn't open until two days before the due date, weekly zoom meetings, and up to 100 pages of reading per week. I think Prof Findlay is a solid professor, but the class is designed so poorly for an a-sync class that I can't recommend it.
This professor was so difficult for no reason. We have so many papers throughout the semester. Do not take him at all costs. He seems very biased over his own thoughts of religion rather than being open minded. He should be more lenient since this is a religion introduction class. Don't take him
Professor Findlay is definitely a character, and watch out because he won't hesitate to call you out about something in front of the WHOLE class. Not speaking from personal experience of course... His canvas and overall structure of how assignments are sent out are horrible. You want to check your grade? No can do pal. Doesn't post grades. HOORAY.
Love his character!! I've always looked forward going to his class and the way he's passionate about logic just makes me want to learn more. He has short essays, media examples, discussion posts on readings, and a portfolio. It may be a lot but he goes over it in class and helped me understand the readings better. Overall a wonderful professor!
Professor Findlay is the best professor I have ever had. He is extremely passionate about what he teaches. He is also such a character and I learned so much from his class. The class is a bit heavy with readings but the lectures are really entertaining and educational. Expect to participate in lectures if you take his class.
Loved!! his class. Attendance isn't mandatory however being in class will give you a better understanding of the material which will help you with the assignments and tests/quizzes.
Professor Findlay is a passionate and understanding professor who truly cares about his students. Hes funny, high energy and his lectures are always interesting. Lots of reading and discussion posts twice a week. He lets you know what will be on the midterm and final so failing is up to you. 1 major paper and 1 group project. Would def take again
Findlay's class has a specific system, but engaging with it can pay off. Attendance is a must, and the textbook is used. For study prep, unstuck AI and other tools like ChatGPT can be really helpful.
Prof Findlay is definitely one of the quirkiest professors on campus, and I love him! He knows how to keep a class engaged and keep the energy up. The work is challenging, and there is a lot!!! But taking his advice to heart has overall made me a much better writer and critical thinker in general. c:
one word… avoid
Professor James Findlay was one of my favorite professors at CSUN he is so funny and hilarious He loves teaching about THE BIBLE and Religion it self he will cuss alot but his work is easy essays are easy about THE BIBLE creative Project is given and exams are in the class but He is an amazing professor just do the work and you will be okay.
Not bad but not good. Be prepared to get called on because he WILL call on you. And be prepared for a lot of cussing and lots of assignments.
Best professor to have. Not a single boring class. Understanding and empathic. You might have a lot to read and to write, but trust me, it is not as much as you think it is if you just try to have common sense. Email him and ask as much as you want; he will not hesitate to explain it again.
One of my favorite professors, he keeps you so engaged and is very funny and beyond understanding. At first you might think he is picking on you, or weird but he truly cares and is a great professor. His weirdness keeps you engaged and laughing. He is very knowledgable on the course and makes you think and form your own opinions. TAKE THIS CLASS.
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
67%
Textbook Required
22%
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