4.6

Joseph Foster

History - Temple University

4.6
Quality
1.8
Difficulty
92%
Would Retake
122
Reviews
4.6
Quality
1.8
Difficulty
4.6
Helpful
4.6
Clarity

92%

Would Retake

122

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

99

4

14

3

7

2

0

1

2

What Students Say

Class seemed enjoyable, funny, and not too much reading or writing

IH852 - 3.0 rating

4 tests in the blue book

FOUNDINGPHIL - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

76%

Textbook Required

33%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
A (24)
A+ (11)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(35)B(5)C(4)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(16)
Based on 64 reported grades
A: 24
A+: 11
A-: 9
B+: 7
Common Tags
Hilarious (40)
Graded by few things (22)
Participation matters (19)
Respected (15)
Lecture heavy (12)
Amazing lectures (10)
Amazing lectures (8)
Caring (8)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.18 avg change
Nov
Jan
Apr
May
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

265

5.0

(2)

AMHIS1600

5.0

(1)

HISTORY

5.0

(1)

AMHIST1C067

5.0

(1)

C068USHIST2

5.0

(1)
+33 more courses
Difficulty by Course

HIS0867

5.0

CO67

3.0

HIS182

3.0

HIST1102

3.0

HIS0848

3.0

Reviews (122)
5.0
3.0
265
Nov 30, 2004

No Comments

5.0
2.0
AMHIS1600
Dec 8, 2004

Great teacher. Very good storyteller of American History. Very easy on the eyes-looks like Kurt Russell.

5.0
2.0
HISTORY
Dec 15, 2004

Very, very interesting (which is hard for history!) Very cool about tests and classwork. Great class and professor.

4.0
2.0
HIST265
Dec 26, 2004

class was great. very cool and easy going about everything.

5.0
2.0
AMHIST1C067
Mar 24, 2005

Great teaching style. Knows history can be boring, but makes fun of it rather than putting you to sleep. Very easy-going. Offen recommend his class to everyone.

5.0
3.0
USHISTORY2
May 3, 2005

This man is wonderful. So easy on the eyes and an excellent teacher. Quite the comedian too, so he keeps you awake. I took him from 7:40-10:15, but most often got out around 9:30-9:45. Wasn't a drag at all to take this class. I would def take him again!

5.0
2.0
265
May 3, 2005

he is a great professor. I had his colonial america class until 10:15 at night and he let us out by 9:45 at the latest. We still learned more than the other classes on main campus. He def knows his stuff and teaches it REALLY well and yes he DOES look like Kurt Russell

5.0
2.0
C068USHIST2
May 16, 2005

One of the best profs i've had. very informative & fun classes. great classroom environment. go home early every night (& he tends to be a late arriver himself)

5.0
3.0
CO67
Oct 26, 2005

Great guy. Had a lot of fun in his class and never put me too sleep even though it was a 3 hr tucc class. always let us out early and still covered alot of material and made the class worthwhile. strongly recommend him to anyone.

5.0
2.0
US1
Nov 1, 2005

what a great teacher. so engaging and easy going. tells history like it is a story. multiple choice tests are very wordy, but he curves like woahhh

5.0
2.0
HSTCO67
Dec 14, 2005

Professor Foster was the best teacher I've had at Temple. His lectures are engaging and he knows everything about American History. His tests are lecture based so if you show up, you'll do fine.

5.0
3.0
HIS182
Aug 21, 2006

Foster is the best teacher I've had at Temple. Not an easy A but he makes you want to EARN one. His lectures are great and he mixes in humor masterfully to keep the class awake. Take him if you can.

5.0
1.0
HIST68
Dec 18, 2006

Best teacher at temple. I simply loved him. class was easy. 2 tests, 2 book reports. no homework. Go to class and take decent notes. no book required. not big into dates. tests come directly from his lectures. Which happen to very funny and informative. Definitly take this man's class.

5.0
2.0
HISTC067
Dec 25, 2006

Made history become alive although i love history, he made me love it even more! WOuld def take him again

5.0
2.0
HIST265
Oct 15, 2007

By far, best teacher at Temple. I have taken Dr. Foster's classes 3 times now. He loves history and makes his students love it as well. If only all professors were like him!

5.0
1.0
HIST1101
Aug 27, 2008

I took a three hour class with him and he managed to keep everyone's interest the entire time. He's a very cheerful and funny guy and a very easy grader.

5.0
1.0
HIST1002
Oct 20, 2008

Best teacher i have ever had in anything, tells history like it is a story, 3 hours of class flies by making you want to stay. Foster has to be hands down best teacher at Temple, DEFINITELY take his class, you won't regret it.

5.0
3.0
HIST1102
Dec 13, 2008

Best teacher I had at Temple thus far. Had him for three semesters. Great experience. No text book required for US History. His teaching ability is absolutely brilliant. No powerpoints. Extremely informative and interesting lectures that makes three hours fly by. Tests come from lecture. Grades fair. Great sense of humor. Good notes = good grade.

3.0
3.0
HIST008
Feb 25, 2010

He is a great person and teacher and as patient for what he does. He is a great social example of a professor.

4.0
2.0
AMREV5
Mar 16, 2010

He made history interesting, and i normally hate history.

5.0
2.0
HIST3103
May 7, 2010

Definently take Dr. Foster. Great professor and also as a good sense of humor. Really, he's hilarious. Easy grader, but won't let you get away with doing nothing. Doesn't use textbooks or readings that much. essays/tests rely on notes, so take good notes. Great at lecturing, I'd put him in the top 3 history professors at temple

5.0
3.0
IH2
Oct 22, 2010

I love this class. I love it. Professor Foster actually makes me want to be a better student, which has been very rare during my entire scholastic career. I'm really really glad I took this class.

5.0
1.0
HIST0848
Nov 13, 2010

I had Dr. Foster for American Revolutions and loved his class. He is a really funny guy and great at making boring material fun and interesting. It's also an extremely easy class. Only one exam, and the rest are just take home and are really easy. Definitely take him

5.0
1.0
HIST2280
Dec 1, 2010

I had Dr. Foster for The World of Benjamin Franklin this semester. If he teaches this course again, TAKE IT! Six weeks are spent exploring Old City. He's a genius and loves to talk colonial America, both the good and bad. Lots of reading, but class is all discussion-based. Great class & professor. I highly recommend him if you want to learn a lot.

5.0
2.0
IH2
Oct 10, 2011

Foster was a very good professor. He taught Mosaic 2 very well. We had to read all the books, 1 chptr for each class and just pick quotes or sentences that we wanted to talk about. NO PAPERS! he just emails you a topic/quote @ the end of each book and you email him back w/ a response 300-500 words. SUPER EASY. u don't belong in school if u fail!

5.0
1.0
HIST0848
Dec 15, 2011

He was the best history professor ever. I learned a lot in his class and he kept my attention the entire time and I hate history. He lectures the entire class but you have to take notes because the exam is what he discusses. He takes attendance even though it's not mandatory. There were 2 in class finals and three 3-question email exams easy class.

5.0
1.0
HIST0848
Dec 19, 2011

GREAT teacher. This man knew his history. He is very reasonable with the workload and grading. He makes the class very engaging and fun. Do yourself a favor and take his class.

5.0
1.0
IH001
Apr 4, 2012

I can't convey what an asset Dr. Foster is to Temple University. He is one of the few professors left that truly loves to teach- a rare quality among Temple's professors. He inspires me to learn moreand to go above and beyond. Can't wait to take him again. Plus, he's got one of those voices that you just want to keep listening to...

5.0
1.0
HIST0848
Apr 9, 2012

Foster is the bomb. Even if you have no interest in history, this man is an amazing teacher who truly loves the subject matter. To top that off, the dude is like a genius, he will talk for 2 hours and you will be thoroughly engaged the entire time. If you take classes to learn ALOT while having fun, take this guy. Straight boss.

5.0
1.0
HIST1046
May 15, 2012

This man is an amazing professor. He made American history clear and interesting. He really knows what he is talking about and has a passion for the subject. Read the small books, do the papers, take notes , and study . It was a great class.

5.0
2.0
HIST848
May 15, 2012

Dr. Foster by far is one of the best History Professor's I've had. He was extremely knowledeable and he kept my interest the entire class which ended at 9:55p.m. He also made Hist fun to learn. You cannot do any better than him. TAKE HIS CLASS! YOU WILL LEARN AND HAVE FUN.2take home exams 2 multiple choice exams

5.0
1.0
EARLYAMER
May 24, 2012

This guy is the one of the best professors at Temple. I had him for early American history from 1787-1848 and I never skipped it. That's how much I looked forward to his class. His tests are mostly based on his lectures so take good notes! Take home tests. I got an A I had him in fall 11 in center city. Would recommend.

5.0
1.0
IH0952
May 29, 2012

Really great professor. Knowledgeable about the books and promotes good class discussion. The course consists of four, nongraded 500-600 word essays and the remaining 20% for participation. If you come to class, participate, and do the work, it is an easy A. Highly recommended.

5.0
1.0
IH0852
Dec 7, 2012

Prof. Foster is one of my favorite professors so far at Temple. He was a fun and easy professor and is an all around great guy. As long as you participate and hand in the 4 short writing assignments - you'll do well in the course. Definitely highly recommend this teacher for anyone taking Mosaic II.

3.0
3.0
HIST0848
Jan 17, 2013

Overall, he was a good professor. He really knows a lot about the subjects he teaches. He goes fast though, and just goes off memory, so its important that you go to class, there are no handouts. he likes essay tests, and usually gives you an idea what the questions will be about before hand. He has a good sense of humor too

5.0
3.0
HIS0848
May 9, 2013

He is one of the BEST history teacher I have ever had. He knows the materials so well and knows very well how to get everyone engaged and interested in the subject. EVERYONE enjoyed his class. He gives 1 exam the rest are take-home exams. He will work with you if you are struggling. Best teacher. He also is hilarious!

5.0
1.0
HIST0848
May 17, 2013

Very easy class and one of the funniest professors out there

5.0
2.0
HIST0848
Grade: B+
Jan 9, 2014

He is extremely knowledgeable, he just talks and you listen. If you can write a few paragraphs for the essays you'll be fine. He's very laid back, and funny.

5.0
2.0
FOUNDINGPHILAD
Aug 20, 2014

Great guy. Very clear, knowledgeable, and friendly. I highly recommend taking the class. No homework besides readings and he tells you what is important in them for blue book tests. Great class.

5.0
1.0
HIST0848
Grade: A-
Oct 26, 2014

Had him for American Revolutions. Easy A! His lectures are interesting. The whole class was engaged in the discussions. There were little assignments that were easy. The tests were take home too. Absolutely recommend him!

5.0
2.0
HIST3102
Grade: A-
Nov 8, 2014

Seriously, Dr Foster is the man. Just a cool, laid back guy who loves to talk about history. You learn a lot of good material in class plus a bunch of funny side stories that he knows for whatever reason. He knows his stuff. He isn't out to get you and makes sure everyone passes the class, he respects the fact that you have a life and other classes

5.0
2.0
IH0852
Dec 10, 2014

This professor was the best teacher to take for Mosaics. Only 4 short papers and participation. He really creates a comfortable classroom where you actually want to participate and learn. He is a great guy and I have learned a lot from him. He really wants you to do well and I HIGHLY recommend him!

5.0
2.0
HIST0867
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 12, 2014

Dr. Foster is the MAN! He makes hour-long lectures endurable. He is funny and although he goes off tangent with his spontaneous anecdotes, he somehow miraculously manages to make the story relevant to the lecture. Maybe that was the purpose of them... Genius. Take his class and you won't want to skip.

5.0
1.0
FOUNDINGPHIL
Dec 15, 2014

Lecture based GenEd. 4 tests in the blue book. Tests are easy and only 3 essay questions, which he will go over the day before the test. All the notes are posted by the TA on blackboard, but go to class and pay attention.

5.0
2.0
HIST0867
Dec 24, 2014

4 exams, 3 questions. To get an A you need to attend. Bring your laptoptablet and take notes on his lectures. You will be more than prepared this way. He will make it SO OBVIOUS when he's talking about a topic that will be on the exam. He touches his nose and will repeat his statements. Loved his class & taking again next semester.

5.0
1.0
IH2
Grade: A
Apr 1, 2015

He's THE best professor to take for IH. Really funny and creates such a comfortable environment. I took it as an 8 am and didn't really regret it cause he's the best. Don't really have to read to be apart of the discussion. Highly recommend him. Attendance is for credit but he never really takes it

5.0
2.0
HIST1101
May 26, 2015

Lectures often include fun history-related stories. This guy is really knowledgeable, but what makes the class kind of rough is that the grade is decided by 3 essay style tests-nothing else. He'll tell you exactly what to study, but if you really struggle on tests it'll probably stress you out.

5.0
1.0
IH0952
Aug 20, 2015

A funny, intelligent man and fantastic professor. Grade is based entirely on 3-4 short papers graded on completion and participation. If he's not in the mood to discuss a reading, he'll just have the class share their take on some interesting hypothetical scenarios ( "moral dilemmas"). You'd have to screw up pretty badly to finish without an A.

5.0
2.0
IH852
Sep 30, 2015

Foster is the best Mosaics professor out there. He is REAL. He knows that we don't want to read the assigned books for IH. He always goes off topic and we have discussions about college problems and it's hilarious, but at the same time gets you thinking. You can just skim some of the books here and there. Take him!!

3.0
3.0
HIST0867
Grade: C+
Dec 19, 2015

Doesn't use powerpoint. Hard to keep up with notes by just listening to him. He tells you whats on the test a little beforehand but unless you have good notes that you can get from someone. You'll prob end up getting a C on the test, rarely a B. Wouldn't recommend.

4.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Dec 29, 2015

Leave it to Joe Foster to make Intellectual Heritage enjoyable. He's sarcastic, funny, and tells interesting "true" stories. He's also incredibly intelligent & keeps you engaged in the class discussions. Do not take Mosaics II with any other professor!!!

5.0
2.0
HIST0867
Grade: A-
Jan 8, 2016

Foster makes class very entertaining & funny. There's a sign-in sheet. Must take notes because he will only tell you the 3 essay questions or topics the day before a test but he reviews. Pretty sure the TA graded our exams & he seemed to take points for not including little details which was annoying.. Otherwise I could've had an A, pretty easy tho

5.0
2.0
HIST3102
Grade: A-
Jan 12, 2016

Foster is the man, he always keeps his lectures interesting and has a wealth of knowledge. His tests are straight forward just pay attention to his lectures or find the content on the internet if you miss class. Foster is one of my favorite professors here at Temple!

5.0
1.0
HIST0867
Grade: A-
Jan 18, 2016

Love him! I really enjoyed his class. He makes his lectures interesting to the point where I actually want to attend class. He's funny and super chill. His lectures are basically like story-telling so you have to actively take notes. His tests are pretty easy and he usually tells you what's going to be on it.

3.0
3.0
IH852
Grade: B-
Jan 27, 2016

Class seemed enjoyable, funny, and not too much reading or writing. We had 4 papers throughout the semester, but received NO feedback on anything we handed in at all. Then he just posted a final semester grade, hinting that we would all get A's if we participated and handed everything in. Yet, I got a B minus.

4.0
1.0
IH0852
Apr 5, 2016

Must participate in class and turn in limited assignments. Such a sweetheart!

4.0
2.0
HIST1001
Apr 21, 2016

Foster is funny. His lectures are him standing and talking, but it's usually got funny anecdotes/stories interspersed so it's not boring at all. Take notes, tests are essay format and there are three of them.

4.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
May 1, 2016

Your grade is based on participation and completion of a few short papers. He hates the required texts just as much as students. Class discussions are actually interesting.

5.0
2.0
HIST1001
Grade: A-
May 5, 2016

Took him for History of Philadelphia, and it was pretty easy and still interesting even though I'm not a history major. Your only grades are 3 essay exams, and he tells you the questions and answers the day before the exam. He takes attendance, but you have to go anyways because there's no textbook or powerpoints. He's really funny and nice!

5.0
2.0
IH0952
Grade: A
May 5, 2016

Joe is the man. He is one of the most humble, funny, and laid back professors at Temple. In fact, I am taking him again next semester for an elective requirement class, just because I like him that much. If you want to learn (more about life then the assigned Mosaics books), and want a class that is a fairly easy A, take Joe.

5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Oct 11, 2016
Would take again

If you show up you will get an A.

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
HIST0867
Grade: B+
Oct 29, 2016
Would take again

Foster is AMAZING! I absolutely love his class. He is so hilarious and makes the information simple and rememberable. There are no power points and he mainly just lectures, but he makes it so interesting with funny stories and quips. There are only 4 exams, and he tells you exactly what's going to be on them the class before.

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
HIST1101
Grade: A+
Nov 28, 2016
Would take again

I had him for Founding Philadelphia Spring 2015 and he was hilarious. Just make sure to take notes during his lectures because there are no slides, but he makes them all so interesting you'll pay attention. Take him if you can!

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
HIS0867
Grade: C
Dec 24, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Worst class ever, he is a heavy lecturer and he gets off topic. He doesn't write on the board he doesn't give out any papers he just talks. He doesn't even give us a review for the test. For the test he gives two essay questions that are super hard. You have to read 50 pg articles for the test. He only grades you on the 4 tests he gives.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
HIST1101
Grade: A-
Jan 2, 2017
Would take again

Foster is the man, that is all you need to know.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A+
Jan 18, 2017
Would take again

Today was my first day of class with him and I already know it'll be an excellent semester. He basically came out and said that if you participate occasionally in class you will be guaranteed an A. He's a really cool and funny guy and would totally recommend.

Respected
Participation matters
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
IH0952
May 1, 2017
Would take again

Easiest class I've ever taken. Foster couldn't care less about the material, but he cares a lot about his students. You'll spend more time discussing ethical dilemmas and listening to his random anecdotes than you'll spend discussing the books, but I still got a lot out of the class. Would recommend to anyone

Hilarious
1.0
5.0
HIST0867
Grade: C+
Jul 3, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He is a nice guy, but he didn't grade us his TA graded us. For that reason I got a C+ in the class. I attended ever class because you have to sign in. The professor is a heavy lecturer so lots of note taking, and the tests were hard. They were written exams, with 2 questions. So you get one wrong, basically you fail the exam. Dont take the class!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
IH0852
Aug 30, 2017
Would take again

Joe Foster is the man. He knew everyone was there because its required and tried to make the class as interesting as possible. Just four one page papers. You're golden with this guy.

Respected
Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
2.0
IH0852
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2017
Would take again

BEST PROFESSOR EVER! He understands that mosaics is a requirement class and barely gives work. just 3 papers, topics being super easy. there are many days where we don't talk about the book and just talk about random stuff. he lets us leave early. Funniest professor ever!! Don't miss your shot of getting an easy A in class like this!

Participation matters
Hilarious
Would take again
5.0
3.0
HIST1101
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2017
Would take again

If you do not experience a Joseph Foster class while at Temple University, I feel sorry for you, truly. Do yourself a favor and take this professor, you'll thank me for it!

Tests? Not many
Hilarious
Would take again
4.0
3.0
HIST1101
Grade: B+
Dec 31, 2017
Would take again

Prof. Foster is a good guy - taking him again for another class in the Spring! He's funny and is straightforward/honest while teaching. However, he doesn't use powerpoints during lecture, just speaks the whole time, which makes it difficult to miss a class or to study later on. If your notes are inaccurate, there's nothing else to reference.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
HIST008
Grade: A+
Oct 31, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Foster is absolutely hilarious. If you need a US Society gen ed take founding Philadelphia. It is the easiest class and Dr. Foster makes it interesting and funny. He usually comes ten minutes late and lets us out ten minutes early. The assignments are incredibly easy. Take founding Philadelphia with Dr. Foster for an easy A.

Hilarious
5.0
2.0
HIS1101
Nov 15, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Foster is an amazing professor. He is hilarious which makes the lectures interesting. The lectures have no power point, but you can record them which I do incase you miss something. Overall a great guy, always asks if theres something else we wanna talk about, lets you out early, & once bought coffee for everyone who wanted some w uber eats

Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Caring
5.0
1.0
HIST0867
Dec 10, 2018
Would take again

Love this guy! He's very lenient on various assignments and changes it based on class majority. The lectures are there for your notes. Also, he will be very considerate of how the class progresses and if the class answers a question or impresses him, you get dismissed from the class early. Take Foster, and you won't be sorry!

Respected
Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
HIST1101
Jan 14, 2019
Would take again

The class is all lectures and three total tests, but the lectures are incredibly interesting as Foster is an amazing storyteller and extremely knowledgeable. If you take notes on/record the lecture, you'll be prepared for the tests (3 short essay questions each). Your only disappointment will be when class ends while he's telling a story.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
IH0852
Grade: B+
Apr 22, 2019
Would take again

If you want an easy A take him. No quizzes, No Exams, No Homework, No Final, just read and 3 papers or less. Just come to class and at least talk or participate. He's a nice guy and caring. The papers are ridiculously easy.

Respected
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
2.0
US1
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2019
Would take again

Great Professor. One of the best at Temple. Uses no Power Points and gave no unnecessary assignments. 2 exams and final was a take home and that was all. Everybody in class loved him. He is hilarious and will always make jokes and the class laugh. Great sense of humor. Don't miss out, Joseph Foster is the man and you won't regret taking his class.

Respected
Graded by few things
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
IH0951
Grade: A
Apr 13, 2020
Would take again

Literally show up, share on thing during each lecture and you are guranteed an A. He assigns like 3 paragraphs the whole semester, and i legit mean paragraphs under 150 words. Despite how easy the class is, foster is absolutely hilarious and you can have good philosophical debates in his class.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
IH2
Grade: A+
Apr 15, 2020
Would take again

Professor Foster is by far my favorite professor at Temple. He is relatable and makes class fun. 100% take him, you won't regret it!

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
HIST3103
Grade: A
Apr 28, 2020
Would take again

Dr. Foster is a great professor. His lectures are hilarious and detailed. He knows a lot about American history and you will learn a lot if you pay attention. Class was three tests (includes midterm and final) that ask short essay questions. Buy the recommended book(s) and read them so you can participate in the discussion.

Test heavy
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
HIST1101
Grade: A+
May 2, 2020
Would take again

I loved Professor Foster, despite having his clas at 9 am I never missed his class because his lectures are funny and interesting, but also because if I missed I would miss a lot. There was no homework besides readings but he did not check. No papers were required. Just exams for midterm and final.

Graded by few things
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
HIST1101
Nov 13, 2020
Would take again

Had this class online because of COVID. If this class had been in person you would probably need to go to lectures to know what is happening. Only grades were 3 exams and he told you what the questions would be so you really shouldn't struggle if you pay attention and take good notes. Easy A and a great prof who is passionate about the subject.

Respected
Graded by few things
Caring
5.0
1.0
IH0852
Grade: A+
Nov 21, 2020
Would take again

One of the coolest, funniest, easy-going, down-to-earth and understanding professors I'll ever have. His goal is to have a decent discussion and make his student's lives easier. All he expects back is a small amount of genuine participation, which is easy if you at least review the material assigned and think about it for 15 min before class.

Participation matters
Hilarious
4.0
3.0
HIST0867
Dec 2, 2020
Would take again

Super cute guy. He's so wholesome and just wants people to participate. It's a little annoying that there are no assignments so you literally have to watch every lecture video to pass the tests. Sometimes it's hard to follow because he's just talking through notes. He's super sweet and makes history a little interesting.

Graded by few things
Caring
5.0
1.0
HIST0867
Grade: A
Dec 7, 2020
Would take again

Great lecturer, The only reading a student needs to due are primary sources or analytical essays. Makes what could be boring information captivating through his teaching and dry wit.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2020
Would take again

Foster is my homie. I don't think I've taken a class as wonderful and easy as his. He is extremely funny and makes the class discussions enjoyable. You are expected to read since its IH, but you could quickly read a summary beforehand and still pass with an A. No exams or quizzes. Inly had to write three one page papers.

Respected
Participation matters
Hilarious
4.0
1.0
HIST3103
Grade: A
Apr 15, 2021
Would take again

Joe Foster is a funny guy and a very knowlegdeable US history professor. This class was pretty much as "show up and pass" as it gets. 3 exams make up your grade, all open-note and know the questions beforehand. Highly recommend this class if you want a less stressful upper level elective, history major or not.

Graded by few things
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
HIST1101
Grade: A
Sep 24, 2021
Would take again

Foster's class was very fun. He is a very funny guy and makes it super easy to pay attention. His class is basically just lectures with exams here and there but as long as you show up and take good notes, you will be fine. He has a passion for history and just loves to talk about it. He talks fast when he lectures but does a great job.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
HIST0867
Nov 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Hes very nice and funny but I have a hard time paying attention in this class. Maybe its because I sit kinda further away from where he stands and talks, I dont know. I just dont find the information hes saying interesting.

Respected
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
IH0852
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 16, 2021
Would take again

He is hilarious. He assigns readings, but honestly you can read a summary and get this gist of everything. Class is just discussing what we read. No homework at all. Super easy class

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Caring
5.0
1.0
IH0852
Grade: A+
Dec 19, 2021
Would take again

TAKE HIM! Literally graded on just showing up to class, and participating in discussions and debates based on readings in class. He knows nobody actually reads the readings, so skim through the passages or find a summary online, and participate in the class by saying anything. The mans a true GOAT! Wish I had taken him for IH1

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Caring
5.0
2.0
IH0952
Dec 23, 2021
Would take again

easy ih class. thoughtful prompts. take him if he's available for ih2

5.0
1.0
HIST1101
Grade: A+
Jan 19, 2022
Would take again

Probably the best class I have ever taken. All you need to do is show up and you pass. No homework and the grade for the semester depends on 3 easy tests. Professor Foster teaches American history like a story, very engaging.

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
HIST2280
Feb 23, 2022
Would take again

Take his class. One of the best professors I've had at Temple. He is so funny and does not assign much work. He also understands that not every student is very interested in the material, and he makes it interesting for everyone. Just go to class and you will do well.

Respected
Graded by few things
Hilarious
4.0
3.0
HIST1101
Grade: A-
Apr 7, 2022
Would take again

Only graded assignments are 3 exams and the last one is a non-cumulative final. Lectures are honestly boring and no one pays attention but for the exams he either gives you a study guide or the exact questions. He even curves the exams so no one fails. Overall a great guy and you can tell he wants to help his students learn.

Hilarious
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
IH0852
Apr 18, 2022
Would take again

If you're taking Foster for IH:2, be ready to participate in class as this is a seminar-type class, with little to no homework besides reading assignments for class. Very chill Professor, quite funny too sometimes. If you hate participating out loud in class, do not take him.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
USHISTORY2
Apr 20, 2022
Would take again

Hes awesome. Had him for History to 1877 and he told us he wasnt gonna fail anyone just, he just wanted to teach to those who wanted to learn. There are only three grades, in the form of exams. He always curves it + lenient. Plus he was a great lecturer, really passionate about the material and it shows. No slides just lectures tho.

Lecture heavy
3.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2022
Would take again

Professor Foster is a funny, caring, and interesting guy. I didn't learn a single thing in the class and barely did anything of the reading but I still got an A. He only grades you on participation which is nice. He does make the material semi-interesting and gives nice feedback when you participate. Wish I could rate him a 3.5ish

Participation matters
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Apr 27, 2022
Would take again

Just say a few words in each class and you'll receive an A. Loved the discussions during class, very insightful. He's extremely approachable.

Participation matters
Caring
Respected
4.0
1.0
FOUNDINGPHIL
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 3, 2022
Would take again

VERY easy prof! he understands that we have a life outside of his class. attendance is mandatory n lectures are rambling tbh. but little to no hw, tests are fairly ok

Participation matters
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
US1
Grade: A
Dec 1, 2022
Would take again

All you do is show up. I had one reading assignment for this class, Pay attention and take notes and you will pass as your whole grade is determined by 3 tests, which I don't like a little as I feel like we should have some hw but this class is easy and doesn't take much time outside of the classroom. Dr.Foster is a very funny guy too.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2022
Would take again

Super easy, show up to class and talk a few times and you'll get an A. Some of the readings were actually cool.

Hilarious
5.0
2.0
FOUNDINGPHIL
Grade: B
Dec 24, 2022
Would take again

Great professor, super funny. He mostly just talks so if you go to class, take notes, and do the assignments, you'll be good.

Hilarious
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
IH0852
Grade: B+
Apr 13, 2023
Would take again

He is a great professor. Gave us little to no HW and no busy work. Hilarious, likes to tell stories. Make sure you say at least one thing each class for participation because that's pretty much the only thing you're graded on. Very approachable and a great guy overall.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
HIS1101
Grade: B
Apr 25, 2023
Would take again

Foster was an entertaining lecturer and gave a lot of interesting insight and facts about the events taught. The class is only graded on 3 exams. He does not use slides while lecturing. Going to the classes is important, he tests on what he lectures, and taking notes is VERY important in this class.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
May 4, 2023
Would take again

Foster is one of the best teachers I've had at Temple. Very passionate about testing your morals and writing skills. Class discussions were very enjoyable. He understands that you have other more important classes.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
HIS1101
Grade: B-
May 10, 2023
Would take again

The prof. is very old fashion. Freeballs it, stands there and talks while you take notes, no slides or anything but he's very entertaining. Very easy to pay attention. He'll curve the grades if needed, he'll tell you exactly what's on the test so you know what to study. It's rlly all on u to take good notes and pay attention. He's great and fun.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
IH0852
Grade: A+
Dec 8, 2023
Would take again

Best IH professor ever. If you show up to class and PARTICIPATE you will do fine. Zero to no hw and he is hilarious, all his lectures were so entertaining

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
3.0
1.0
IH0852
Grade: C+
Dec 11, 2023

I can see why people would enjoy his class, but I didn't. He'll only grade you on attendance and participation and he rarely spends time actually discussing the texts. I found him to be abrasive and condescending with how he leads class discussions. He's also very old-fashioned and borderline tech-illiterate. Nothing on canvas except a book list.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
IH0852
Grade: A
Feb 23, 2024
Would take again

He is super smart and very straightforward. He was super funny and sweared in class which made him much more accessible and easily relatable. def take this class.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Respected
5.0
1.0
IH2
Grade: A+
Mar 2, 2024
Would take again

He's so me

5.0
1.0
FOUNDINGPHIL
Grade: A+
Nov 1, 2024
Would take again

Best teacher ever

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
IH0852
Grade: B+
Jan 1, 2025
Would take again

The professor is hilarious and makes the class super engaging. He focuses a lot on participation, so be ready to speak up. unstuck ai was a great supplement for studying and prepping for this class.

5.0
2.0
HIS1101
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 11, 2025
Would take again

The entire grade is based on 3 exams throughout the semester. He gives study guides for them. Chill guy and pretty funny

Hilarious
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
FOUNDINGPHIL
Grade: A
Apr 12, 2025
Would take again

One of the best educators ive ever had!

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
1.0
HIST1101
Grade: A-
May 9, 2025
Would take again

Do yourself a favor and take one of Joe's classes. Had him for history, founding Philly, and IH and he made all of them great. Leans into edutainment a lot where he throws jokes and informal language into his lectures. Is his classes easy, almost to a questionable degree? Maybe, but even if he doesnt take grading too seriously, hes a great educator

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
IH0852
Grade: A
May 15, 2025
Would take again

His class is a lot of fun, and he does a great job of engaging everyone. He does make it very participation heavy, so if you don't want to have to speak every class, take someone else for IH. But if you do like class discussions, this is absolutely the professor to take.

Participation matters
5.0
2.0
FOUNDINGPHIL
Grade: B+
Oct 14, 2025
Would take again

HIST 0867 (GU) Spring In-Person. Cares about the topic but realizes it's a GenEd. Great lectures. First half of semester just lectures, second half two exams and assignments. Some assignments are presentations, everything else submit by email - Canvas for grades only, must confirm assignments and due dates in person, he can't use Canvas.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
HIST1101
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2025
Would take again

Only 3 exams were the grades, and all are easy as long as you study two nights before and remotely pay attention in class. His lectures are very interesting and he is the best lecturer at Temple by far. Overall, if you're looking for a interesting free elective that doesn't require much time outside, this one checks those boxes.

Amazing lectures
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
HIST1101
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2025

Classes were all lectures, no assignments, & only grades all sem were 3 exams. All exams were multi choice, but gives lots of freebies. Very interesting & lectures well. Didn't have any sort of slides, notes, textbook so it is easy to get lost if you cant pay attention to him just talking for an hour. Gave study guides, but need to ask for it.

Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
IH0952
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2025
Would take again

literally just went to class and yapped. had readings and then in-class discussions of the work & moral dilemmas. also a couple in-class grammar workshops + got to talk to a guest speaker connected to one of our books. would take him for every class if i could so definitely recommend you take him for this one if you can

Participation matters
Hilarious
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

76%

Textbook Required

33%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

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Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
A (24)
A+ (11)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(35)B(5)C(4)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(16)
Based on 64 reported grades
A: 24
A+: 11
A-: 9
B+: 7
Common Tags
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Graded by few things (22)
Participation matters (19)
Respected (15)
Lecture heavy (12)
Amazing lectures (10)
Amazing lectures (8)
Caring (8)
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