2.3

Raymond F. Coughlin

Mathematics - Temple University

2.3
Quality
2.7
Difficulty
20%
Would Retake
116
Reviews
2.3
Quality
2.7
Difficulty
2.4
Helpful
2.3
Clarity

20%

Would Retake

116

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

12

4

20

3

13

2

34

1

37

What Students Say

If you like yourself, don't take this class

MATH0828 - 1.0 rating

Takes credit for others successes

MATH0828 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

42%

Textbook Required

62%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 30 grades
Most common grades:
A (12)
A+ (6)
B+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(18)B(4)C(0)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(7)
Based on 33 reported grades
A: 12
A+: 6
B+: 5
B: 4
Common Tags
Graded by few things (9)
Skip class? You won't pass. (8)
Lecture heavy (5)
Test heavy (4)
LECTURE HEAVY (3)
Respected (3)
Clear grading criteria (3)
Inspirational (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.58 avg change
Oct
Nov
Dec
Mar
Apr
Jul
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MATHMATH

4.0

(1)

MATH0854

4.0

(1)

MATHPROB

4.0

(1)

MAT099

4.0

(1)

MATHC065

3.5

(2)
+23 more courses
Difficulty by Course

MATHCO55

5.0

MTH085

5.0

MATH0826

4.0

MATH1041

3.8

MATH1012

3.4

Reviews (116)
5.0
2.0
MATH65
Nov 11, 2004

He's a funny guy and the material is not too difficult. Tests are directly from notes. Classwork is directly from text.

4.0
2.0
MATH55
Dec 10, 2004

you da man Ray.

1.0
3.0
MATH65
Dec 21, 2004

I learned nothing from this man.

1.0
5.0
MATH55
Feb 14, 2005

this teacher is a first class jerk. he said " i am the dictator in the class." he is a horible teacher. he with the rest of the math department should be fired immediately and sued for theft of university pension and funds

2.0
3.0
MATH65
Mar 31, 2005

I don't like him. He did not help me when I come to see him. He teaches fast and the textbook is no help.

3.0
5.0
MATHCO55
Apr 24, 2005

I'M NOT GOOD AT MATH. So I wasn't very happy to be taking this class over, but this teacher was great. We used the text that HE wrote and I got it, even passed this time around.

2.0
3.0
MATH55
Grade: A+
Oct 28, 2005

Talks about himself and his family more than math. weird man.

3.0
2.0
MATHCO65ALT
Dec 13, 2005

He is weird guy who talks abuot his family to much and makes too many stupid jokes. Since it was an alternative math class it was stupid. Even though the class itself is not hard because you work in groups, it was just an annoying class. If u miss 1 or 2 class u can miss a lot.

2.0
3.0
MATH65
Dec 13, 2005

He is really a cool and funny teacher in class. BUT He teaches too fast and the text book is confusing. It is no help. Outside of class, he's not a cool person. He doesn't let you speak and assume things. He's not helpful. I would not recommend him.

1.0
3.0
MATH65
Dec 15, 2005

HORRIBLE teacher. if you have him, drop the class. wasted a whole semester of my life listening to this man talk about his family and things that had no relation to the crap we were studying (which was, by the way, pointless) offers no help and is extremely rude if you ask for it. he might have been the worst math teacher i have ever had.

3.0
2.0
MATH65
Dec 21, 2005

He's real goofy, because he spends 60% of the class time telling jokes. The test aren't hard because you pretty much have a study group already formed because he lets you do the in class assignments in groups. I do agree with other people when they say he really isn't approachable, he gives you a mean look when you ask him a simple question.

5.0
1.0
MATH65
Jan 18, 2006

I must admit alot of people did not like his class but I loved it. The stories he told gave my mind a break from math which I hate. USE THE TEXTBOOK it is very helpful and participate in the groups that he put u in for ur own sake...and come to class. I did and I got an A :)

2.0
3.0
MATH5565
Mar 20, 2006

he is the absolute worst. do anything to get out of his class.

4.0
2.0
MATH55
Apr 3, 2006

was very nice to me i talked to him all the time and i think he liked me alot real interesting told jokes that were stupid in a good way and was easy

2.0
2.0
MATCH65
Jan 2, 2007

he got the administrations permission to make up his own class. the material is out there, non-applicable to real life whatsoever. learn the material, spit it back out in quizzes and tests and you'll get an A. he talks about his perfect life a lot. he makes a lot of tacky jokes about catholics, the irish, and alcoholism which were sometimes funny.

5.0
2.0
MATH65
Mar 18, 2007

Class was pretty easy in beginning of semester, and got a little harder in last half. The class was made for Ed. Majors, and i think it helps prepare for the math praxis (in geometry anyway). Very funny professor, and very nice. He has students help in class as well, so there are a few people besides him to help answer questions. Great professor!!!

3.0
2.0
MATHC065
Apr 9, 2007

he tells a real lot of stories and sometimes goes off during a lesson. But the alternative math class is interesting and good for people who don't remember or were not good at past math's. He's a nice guy, just likes to talk. Easy grade if you pay attention.

2.0
2.0
MATH65
Apr 24, 2007

Aside from babbling on about how he hates Penn State, he also talks down to you because you are not an honors class, and doesn't realize that some of the jokes he makes are **** and offensive.

2.0
3.0
MATH55
Apr 28, 2007

Ray adds life lessons in with math, sometimes a bit to much. He taks alot about his daughters alot and seems very egotistical. If you listen to his study hints and do the practice problems you'll get an A. Going to class was helpfull for me, but if you know your math you wouldn't have to attend.

2.0
3.0
MATH65
May 13, 2007

Terrible. All he does is go on about irrelevant topics. He is awful at explaining things clearly. Arrogant. Better to ask TA's questions, because you'll never get a straight answer with this guy. I relied more on my group to teach me the concepts than I did on him. Not recommended unless you like wasting your time.

2.0
2.0
MATH65
May 14, 2007

Don't bother buying the Zitarelli book. Notes will be fine. Rambles and wastes an hour of class, then tries to fit his lesson into the last 20 minutes. Egotist, the kind of person who thinks math and science people are the only intelligent people. Class was easy; group work, so just show up for tests/weekly quizzes on Th.

4.0
2.0
MATHC065
Jun 28, 2007

Very funny man. Kept the class AWAKE and entertained with stories and jokes. I would recommend going to class and participating if you want the best grade. The material is REALLY cool, unlike any other math course I've ever taken. Egyptian numbers!

2.0
3.0
MATH65
Jul 3, 2007

I wish i would've read the reviews on Ray before I decided to take his class. His class is pointless mathematics that can never really be applied to real life unless you're an education major. He is also a bit egocentric and didn't really have a flow to his teaching.

1.0
5.0
MTH085
Sep 26, 2007

Had this guy in Spring '98. Complete waste of my time, and I now have a blemish on my academic record because of him. I went to every class, I participated as much as I could, but never got a single question answered, and instead got an earful of blithering idiocy. Yes, it's been nearly ten years, and I STILL hold a grudge.

1.0
4.0
MATH1012
Nov 27, 2007

he is absolutely ridiculous. cannot go a single class period without talking about his daughters for at least 10-15 minutes. he believes that the class he is teaching is revolutionary, yet all he does is teach students how to take the lsat or gre. unless you are planning on taking either of those, do not take this class it is a joke.

1.0
1.0
MATH1011
Dec 4, 2007

This guy is unbelievable. He talks about so much other stuff besides math, and when he IS talking about math, he over-complicates it so much. I'm really thankful that I understand the concepts, cause otherwise I would be completely lost following this guy. He's also really mean to his students and I also think he has delusions of grandeur.

2.0
1.0
MATH1101
Dec 13, 2007

No Comments

1.0
5.0
MATH1012
Apr 2, 2008

One of my worst professors ever. All he does is talk about how smart he and his daughters are. The only reason I passed was because I got help from the other students in the class, he never clarifies anything. Also, he tells nonsensical jokes that are utterly unentertaining.

4.0
3.0
MATH1012
Apr 8, 2008

pretty funny guy. talks about his family a lot, but i think to make class more interesting. on halloween he did a crazy stunt, it was funny. the class isnt hard if you do the work, but you do have to study the logic. the tests usually consisted mostly of problems we had done in class and he told you most of the exact ones that would be on it.

4.0
2.0
MATH1012
May 13, 2008

I did very well in this class. He is a lively teacher, not as boring as my last math teacher. He can be full of himself at times though, it is clear that he thinks his class is revolutionary. But he does tell some stories that are amusing,as well as some amusing jokes too. Its an easy class if you pay attention.

2.0
3.0
MATH1012
Jul 29, 2008

Had Math 1011 & 1012 with him. 1011 he was easy to get an A but didnt actually teach. 1012 was the worst class of my life, and a just plain horrid.

4.0
3.0
MATH0284
Nov 10, 2008

Funny and entertaining. He knows when things are getting boring so he'll tell a joke or a story. Lively and helps you pay attention.

1.0
3.0
MATH0824
Dec 17, 2008

Clearly thinks believes that his class will solve all the world's problems. His method of solving common sense problems is mind boggling. You can't just answer the question, that would be crazy! Instead you have to deal with a lot of convoluted jargon that he clearly invented. His class is a major waste of time. DO NOT TAKE IT.

4.0
1.0
MATHMATH
Jan 16, 2009

I had him for mathematical patterns. Easy easy class. He gives you review sheets the class before exams that have almost the exact same questions as the exams. Theres opportunities for extra credit too. The class can be extremely boring at times but that should be a sacrifice you're willing to make for a good grade.

3.0
1.0
MATH0824
Jan 26, 2009

One word: Joke. Class was a bunch of riddles out of a textbook that was literally made my someone using Microsoft word, cover and all. He drones on about his daughters and how revolutionary is class is for teaching logic (for NSTs and "real life"). Sit in class and ace it, just try to tune him out.

1.0
4.0
MATH0824
May 12, 2009

I thought I was taking mathematical patterns...not Raymond 101. I can't tell you how to solve a 5 entity problem but I can tell you that he thinks his granddaughter is a porker and that he believes he is God's gift to earth. DROP THIS CLASS IF YOU SIGNED UP FOR IT!

2.0
2.0
MATH0824
May 13, 2009

spent more time talking about his personal life, family, and how his class will help you in other classes. most boring class i've ever taken. i don't think i learned anything in that class. you barely have to do any work, but to me it's not worth it so have to sit through that for 2 hours.

2.0
1.0
MATH0824
Sep 21, 2009

Very verbose, goes off on tangents frequently. Can be hard to follow/take notes from. Spends more time talking about himself, his family, about concept of the class (how wonderful he, they, and it are) than actually teaching. Often walk away from class confused about material. Relied more on self and group of students to understand material.

5.0
4.0
MATH0824
Dec 18, 2009

Dr. Coughlin is a very good teacher, he's just has too much time on his hands. He has to entertain his students for almost two hours and he doesn't have enough material to just talk about it the whole time. He improvises by talking. He is an amazing teacher always has time for his students and makes his subject seem easy even though it's not at all

4.0
1.0
MATH001
Jan 20, 2010

The man known as Coughlin is awesome. He talks quite alot, however, the class is easy. Can seem boring at times, except for his funny mannerisms. First day of class, Coughlin showed up in an indiana jones hat. Needless to say, he's the MAN!

4.0
2.0
MATH0824
Apr 1, 2010

He's actually not that bad of a teacher, he's just far too arrogant for me to like. He brags CONSTANTLY about himself and his daughters and how good and smart they all are. Unless we're being tested on his achievements and his daughter's lives (which we should have, given the amount of info we got about them), we don't care!

5.0
1.0
MATH001
Apr 6, 2010

I don't know what you other people are talking about but he is freaking awesome! So what he talks about his daughters, at least he shows you he is human once in a while! He tries very hard to make learning easy and understandable and I think he did a great job! He was fun and had a good outlook on life! KEEP IT UUUP!!

1.0
5.0
MATH0824
May 5, 2010

Worst teacher ever. You sit in class ready to learn and get to the subject matter and he just goes on and on and on about HIMESELF!!!! He constantly brags about his achievements and how wonderful his daughters are when he should be teaching us math. What an awful class.

1.0
3.0
MATH0824
May 12, 2010

Awful class. Just talks about himself and makes his TAs teach the actual material in the MSRC. Jumps from topic to topic. This was such a waste of time and not even that easy of a grade like I had been told.

2.0
1.0
MATH101
Sep 15, 2010

This guy never shuts up about his personal life. He's extremely arrogant and frequently laughs at his own "jokes." Recently he has been stating his political opinions as facts, which is really annoying. He treats the class like a room full of idiots, so if you're interested in being bored to death, take this class.

2.0
1.0
MATH0824
Oct 12, 2010

this is the most boring class ever but you have to go to almost every one because there is a quiz at the end of every class

3.0
2.0
MATH0824
Oct 12, 2010

Some classes are sleep friendly others keep you awake. He does drift to irrelevant topics mostly just to keep people from getting bored. Would not recommend taking this class

4.0
3.0
MATH0824
Nov 4, 2010

He does drag out stories and jokes a lot. However, the material he is teaching is extremely interesting. He offers loads of help. I think he is definitely worth taking. He is a very intelligent person, and his class is definitely helpful in many areas. Great professor, just be ready to deal with 10-minute cheesy jokes and life stories. :p

1.0
1.0
MATH001
Nov 11, 2010

He thinks VERY highly of himself. Everyday for about an hour he will tell you a bunch of stories about how his class has changed peoples lives and then he'll give you a quiz that a third grader could ace. It's an easy class but I'd rather actually learn something than waste my time sitting through his egotistical rants.

4.0
2.0
MATH0854
Dec 3, 2010

All he does is talk about himself and his wife. He talks in a really awkward voices and thinks he's funny. He's no help whatsoever when it comes to the Math class. He is not approachable.

2.0
1.0
MATH0824
Dec 12, 2010

I stopped attending classes because I got so bored of hearing him talk about his family and bashing on villanova. During one class I said that if he said anything about his daughter one more time i would leave, and i did. I'd say out of the entire class period, he spent 20 minutes actually talking about the problems. Which you will end up tuning ou

5.0
3.0
MATH0824
Dec 14, 2010

I AM TERRIBLE AT MATH...and THIS MAN CHANGED MY LIFE! Dr. C is one of the sweetest and most informative professors Temple has to offer. His "rants" people talk about help relate the material to real life! (...and can a grandfather brag about his granddaughter for God's sake!? Leave him alone people!). Majority of classmates LOVED him! Changed me...

4.0
1.0
MATH0824
Dec 22, 2010

The material is mostly straightforward. As long as you study, you'll do well. The prof always emails the class lecture notes and exam reviews. The downside is that the prof spends most of the period talking abt himself, and you will prob be forced to attend lecture due to surprise quizzes.

2.0
1.0
MATH0824
Apr 6, 2011

This class is alright, I just dislike the fact that we have to sit through so many lectures. If you're a visual person and you took the math placement test and tested into calculus (like I did), I suggest taking this class for an easy A. Other than that, the jokes are okay. I just dislike the fact that my group is just as confused as the TAs. :/

4.0
1.0
MATHPROB
Apr 19, 2011

Coughlin's great! I am horrible at math, and this class is a breeze. He explains everything in crystal clear detail, making it impossible to fail (or even slump) in this class.He's really funny, and likes telling jokes to lighten the mood. I'd recommend this class to those who have limited math skills. There are surprise quizzes in lecture, so go!

1.0
1.0
MATH0824
Apr 28, 2011

This was the most boring, useless class I have ever taken. He told lame jokes, that kept no ones attention. He also reuses lesson plans two days in a row and reteaches the same thing for like a week straight. It is an easy A, but if I could do it again I would NOT take this class.

4.0
2.0
MAT099
Aug 10, 2011

Being that it is a 7 week course, it is fast but good.

3.0
1.0
MATH0824
Sep 7, 2011

I would say...he is a ridiculously easy teacher. He gives us puzzles to solve for like 3rd grade level. Honestly, when I applied to Temple University, I felt so proud of myself, I felt as an adult, as something important happened to my life, but in this particular class I feel like I'm a 22 years old idiot, who solving these stupid problems...He al

4.0
1.0
MATH0824
Dec 18, 2011

Really nice guy, very repetitive. Extremely easy class, but try not to skip because you may get behind or miss a quiz.

1.0
3.0
MATH0284
Dec 19, 2011

ended up with an 87 in the class. I did all the quizes and wrote 3 out of 4 papers for extra credit. He wouldn't help me out with 1 point for a B+. Said i missed quizes. Really bad at teaching. MSRC had to clarify all topics. Im not good at math, so MSRC carried me through the semester. Extra credit was pointless and a waste of my time.

2.0
1.0
MATH0824
Mar 31, 2012

Ridiculously hard to understand, but it doesn't even matter because the material is ridiculously easy. There's almost no math even involved. Hardly went, missed several quizzes and homeworks, and still got an A. If you don't do well in this class you're messing up somewhere.

2.0
3.0
MATH0824
Apr 27, 2012

Class started off pretty easy, and not a lot of math (if any) is needed. However, he doesn't do a good job at explaining things especially when they start to become more than basic stuff. He speaks fast, and if you don't understand something, you'll get behind. Also, tests/quizes arent handed back so you have no clue what you need to fix.

2.0
1.0
MATH0824
May 3, 2012

Dr. Coughlin has good intentions, but he gets carried away with his own tangents. The class is really easy if you pay attention. I have missed so many days of this class and am still getting As on my exams. All Coughlin wants is for his students to understand the material. He doesn't seem very approachable, but his assistants are extremely helpful.

2.0
3.0
MATH0824
May 14, 2012

You learn more about his life than the subject matter of the class. But the class is not hard if you go to the MSRC,but though some of the TA's are just as lost as you are so make sure you find a TA who understands the work

2.0
4.0
MATH0824
May 15, 2012

This class is very confusing, extra credit available but won't do very much for your grade. Only take this class if interested.

2.0
3.0
MATH101
Jul 31, 2012

I had Math Patterns with Dr. Coughlin. He tries very hard to connect with students but I feel that he may cater to younger underclassmen. As a 24 year old, this class was a waste of my time. Utilize the help of the TA's! You will get by with zoning out for his tangents and snapping back to reality when he starts teaching.

2.0
3.0
MATH0824
Nov 6, 2012

I took his class because I thought it would be interesting and fit my GenEd. Unfortunately, I dreaded it. Coughlin is a really nice guy, but sort of hard to follow. Especially in a big lecture hall it's really easy to get lost. Really think about taking this class before you commit. If you do make sure you go to the MSRC!

3.0
3.0
MATH0825
Nov 27, 2012

I took math patterns with him, he is a nice guy but rambles about things not related to the class alot...thus making it hard to follow..the only reason I passed was help from the TA's and the MSRC.

1.0
5.0
MATH0828
Oct 26, 2013

I took this class thinking it would be easy. The course description sounded pretty interesting but Coughlin is not a good teacher. He does not explain things clearly and rambles on making jokes that half the class does not find amusing. I would not choose this class if you are not good at math.

5.0
1.0
MATH0824
Nov 4, 2013

Class can be boring because of how easy the material is. As long as you show up and pay attention you should get a decent grade.

1.0
4.0
MATH0828
Nov 5, 2013

Critical Reasoning is the most boring and confusing class you could ever imagine. His TA's are the only way you will pass. Only take this if you want to be a lawyer. Just when you think you understand, he explains it in the opposite way.

3.0
4.0
MATH0828
Grade: B+
Dec 3, 2013

Dr. Coighlin's Critical Reasoning and Problem Solving class was all over the place. He places random personal anecdotes about his life in the teaching and then you end up completely lost. If you take him stay after for the TA review sessions because they will save you from failing.

5.0
1.0
MATH828
Dec 9, 2013

One of the easiest classes at Temple. Kind of boring, but it's definitely the best Math Gen Ed you can take.

5.0
2.0
MATH0828
Dec 10, 2013

Professor Coughlin is very interesting to listen to. I used the textbook to help reinforce the concepts that were taught in class. You'll actually have to put in work for the A. However, if you receive an A on the final, you get an A for the class. I encourage people to take this class! It helps change the way you think of/solve problems.

4.0
2.0
MATH0828
Jan 20, 2014

Personally I enjoyed this class! It is not easy it relly works your brain and you'll only fail under a few circumstances not studying or visiting the msrc for help. I received As on his exams by actually practicing problems at home. However, I do not recommend this place for anyone who will not come to class regularly.

2.0
1.0
MATH0828
Grade: B
Nov 13, 2014

The concepts in the class are easy but he over explains everything so much that people doubt themselves and get confused which leads to him no explaining it any better and even more confusion and frustration

3.0
3.0
828
Grade: A
Jan 11, 2015

This class shouldn't be taught as a lecture since the concepts are hard but he does his best to explain. Sometimes he overexplains and confuses people. Take use of the MSRC or take time on your own to figure it out bc its soooo confusing. He ends up giving you the grade on your final exam as your course grade :DDDD

2.0
3.0
CRITICALREAS
Grade: A-
Feb 9, 2015

He's confusing and over-explains things. I seconded guessed myself every time I thought I understood a concept. He talks about his life more than the material and thinks the class is going to change the world. Unhelpful, egotistic. BUT, easy.

1.0
3.0
CRITRES828
Grade: Rather not say
Mar 27, 2015

Do not take this class until you are preparing for grad school, tons of GRE questions. The information studied was weird and he helped in no way. If you are going to take this class, go to the MSRC and see the TAs, never ask him any questions. The book is online, never looked at it but that's where the quizzes are.

2.0
4.0
CRITRES828
Grade: A
Jan 4, 2016

Very few difficult tests during the semester that you never see again so you can't improve. Too many life stories and doesn't explain concepts well. Tried to extort students out of money by requiring they sign up for his paid access website to submit your final report. He got reported in Fall of 2015 but who knows if he'll keep trying to do it.

1.0
3.0
MATH0828
Grade: B+
Jan 23, 2016

The dumbest class I've EVER taken. Doesn't really explain the topic, even topic isn't specific sometimes. Talking about his life more. Tho TAs are super helpful, they saved my life! Skipped class couple times, didn't miss anything. Super weird and boring, tho tests are pretty easy if you ask TAs for help

1.0
3.0
MATH1041
Dec 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Coughlin goes on tangents about unrelated topics often. I came to class to learn Calculus, not hear about his daughter who goes to UPenn. He will start a problem and never finish it in the attempt to "save time". He often over explains concepts leading to confusion. You have two exams a (24% of your grade each) and a final(34%). Do not take.

2.0
3.0
MATH1041
Grade: B+
Jan 16, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Very bad professor. Goes off on random stories about his daughters constantly, basically bragging about how awesome they are. Makes it sound like he is the only reason some of his students have gotten into law or medical school. Once talked for 20 minutes about the LCATs to a group of students that are science and math majors. DO NOT take.

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
1.0
4.0
MATH0828
Jan 17, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He talks about things totally unrelated to the class & made us write an essay that had nothing to do with the subject. Lecture was super long with his constant bragging and talking nonstop about his own life.

LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
MATH1041
Grade: D-
Mar 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

As you can tell from other people's ratings, Coughlin is no bueno. Had him for Calc 1 my first semester and I had no background on anything calculus except for precalc. Math is my forte and Coughlin destroyed it.

3.0
3.0
MATH1041
Grade: A
May 16, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Had him for Calc 1. Only did well bc i took AP Calc in high school. Went off on random tangents about his life and his successful daughter in an Ivy. Barely taught but mores just went through problems on his own. Only survived due to previous knowledge.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
4.0
3.0
MATH0824
Grade: B
Aug 31, 2017
Would take again

Took him for my required math. As others noted he's a rambler. Talks about his life. Some of it's interesting, some of it's not. I'm not a math major so i took some bs probability class. Go to class, pay mild attention to the lecture, you'll "B" fine.

Respected
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
5.0
MATH0828
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2017
Wouldn't take again

It's hard to understand what is being taught in this class because he tends to over explain the subject. And he also tends to go off an a tangent about his family, which can be annoying. But he does try to make the class interesting by giving out candy for when you volunteer for a question. I would recommend seeing his TA's if you're struggling.

Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
MATH0828
Grade: A
Apr 16, 2018
Would take again

Prof. Coughlin is a great choice for your fundamental math course. His critical and reasoning class is essentially solving puzzles, and it teaches you how to solve LSAT problems. His lectures sometimes get boring because he goes off topic, but he rewards correct answers with candy. 3 major tests and a final, lowest score is dropped.

Clear grading criteria
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
CRITRES828
Aug 29, 2018
Wouldn't take again

you need to learn lessons by the video he posted online. That's why I learn all of materials by myself through watching his videos so painful but the great thing is I got an A! extremely not recommend to take him unless you want to challenge yourself and you are so good at math

Hilarious
1.0
3.0
MATH0828
Grade: A
Oct 31, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Take advantage of the TA's office hours and somewhat pay attention in class and you'll be fine grade wise. However, Dr. Coughlin is extremely annoying. He goes on long pointless rants that have nothing to do with what we're doing and he constantly repeats himself. His class gives me a headache and I wouldn't take it again.

1.0
5.0
MATH0828
Nov 27, 2018
Wouldn't take again

If you like yourself, don't take this class. This professor was incredibly rude when I approached and asked for help. He made it clear that he couldn't be bothered to talk to me. He gets off topic easily and tells stories that have nothing to do with the class. The material is difficult and he genuinely made me feel dumb every time I came to class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
MATH0828
Nov 27, 2018
Wouldn't take again

HORRIBLE. SO MEAN. SO CONFUSING. DO NOT RECOMMEND. He literally turned me away when I came to him for help before an exam. His content is confusing, he constantly tells irrelevant stories about his life/family/friends. Takes credit for others successes. Talks poorly about current and past students. Tells our class how disappointing we are. DONTTAKE

1.0
5.0
MATH0828
Nov 27, 2018
Wouldn't take again

So much of this class is based on NST's, specifically the LSAT. I am not a law major and do not plan on ever taking that exam. Most of the students in my class are in the same boat as me. For whatever reason, this professor seems to think that everyone will be taking the LSAT at some point because he talks about it FOREVER in EVERY class. DONT TAKE

1.0
4.0
MATH0826
Grade: A+
Dec 12, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Coughlin tends to get off topic during lectures and talks more about past experiences, acquaintances, and students rather than the actual course material. To pass this class with a decent grade, you cannot rely solely on lectures and must go to the TAs tutoring.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
2.0
1.0
CRITRES828
Grade: B+
Jan 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Over explains everything that he teaches & it makes it almost impossible to understand what's being taught. He gets really distracted & talks about stories & his daughters more than needed. He says you need to write a personal reflection & another writing piece & will count towards your grade but never looked at them. TAs dont know whats going on.

Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
MATH828
Grade: B
Apr 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Took this class first semester of Freshmen year. Big mistake. You take a quiz at the end of every class but the only thing that ends up going in for your final grade are the four exams you take. We got assigned two long essays at the end of the semester and he never even graded them. Avoid this class if you can.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
3.0
2.0
MATH0828
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

He goes off topic and repeats himself a lot, but if you can get through that, the problems we solve are actually interesting. He talks a lot about NSTs, especially the LSAT, and sometimes the lectures can get boring, but it's an easy A if you're able to pay attention and study for the tests. There's also a small quiz at the end of every class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
4.0
2.0
CRITRES828
Grade: A+
Nov 20, 2019
Would take again

All these people that say his class is hard are lying or just lazy. If you just listen to him and study the study guides he gives you then you should get an A. He does ramble, but they are often hold interesting if you listen. This is a good course to take freshman year if your major has anything to do with problem solving or logic. Only 4 tests.

Respected
Inspirational
Graded by few things
1.0
2.0
CRITRES828
Grade: A
Dec 10, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Dr Coughlin rambles CONSTANTLY during class. His class consists of him briefly skimming content he goes over in prerecorded videos and the rest is him going on and on about his life the remainder of class. Cool guy, irrelevant class.

1.0
4.0
MATH0828
Grade: A-
Apr 20, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He is such a sweet man, but his teaching on the other hand isnt great. Critical reasoning and problem solving was so confusing. I only passed because the entire class made a group chat to help each other. You only get 3 exam grades and like nothing else. If you arent a math person, this class was hard and he rambles during lectures so much.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
MATH0828
Grade: B+
Apr 23, 2021
Wouldn't take again

RAMBLES! This is the most confusing class I have ever taken in my life. He makes no sense and only talks about his daughter and the LSAT (really don't get it). 100% do not recommend.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
MATH2101
Aug 3, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Please do not waste your tuition money. No disrespect but,he doesn't know how to teach Linear Algebra. Grade based on 4 exams. Exams are probably okaybut please understand that you cannot get through his class unless you have already taken this course before in some form. Please do not commit the mistake of taking him thinking you'll teach yourself

5.0
3.0
MATH2101
Grade: A+
Nov 16, 2021
Would take again

Coughlin is a fantastic professor who will put in exactly as much effort as you do. His teaching can be scattered, but if you are paying attention and taking good notes it will make sense. Following along in the textbook will be extremely helpful. He is very approachable outside of class, just make sure you try whatever it is on your own first.

Accessible outside class
Inspirational
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH2101
Grade: A
Nov 19, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The worst math professor I've ever had. Can't finish a problem. Either goes onto an unrelated story or a different problem, so you never know how to actually solve the problem. The textbook sucks and does things so differently than what he teaches and expects. Exams are awful. I'm convinced the review below this one was written by him. AVOID

Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
MATH0828
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Took this class as a math gen ed, would never take it again. Dr. Coughlin tends to go off on long tangents not relating to the material at all. Not to mention the material makes absolutely no sense at times. Good intentions, bad execution. Plan to do a lot of your own work/studying outside of the class, 4 exams and that's it.

4.0
2.0
MATH2101
Grade: A+
Dec 13, 2021
Would take again

While Dr. Coughlin does go on tangents this class is still quite easy to pass. My main concern for this class is the lack of actual 'Linear Algebra'. What is taught here is the 'bare-bones' of what this class should be about. In other words, the material is lacking in depth. Aside from this, Dr. Coughlin does a good job in helping you understand.

Accessible outside class
Inspirational
Caring
4.0
2.0
MATH0828
Grade: A
Jan 11, 2022
Would take again

I took Math 0828 with Professor Coughlin for the math gen ed requirement. I would definitely recommend this course if you're looking for one without a lot of homework, and if you are not great at typical math. Professor was really nice, sometimes lectures went a little long or off topic. After I went to the TA tutoring sessions, class was a breeze.

Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
828
Oct 25, 2022

He is boring, he does not know how to get his point across without spiraling. But nice guy

1.0
5.0
MATH1041
Oct 31, 2022

very confusing and goes off on tangents about his family all the time. I took calc 1 and 2 in high school but that did not even prepare me for his calc 1.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH1041
Nov 10, 2022

Overall a horrible professor, he barely teaches the material, you have to teach yourself most of the book, he goes off on countless tangents and gets distracted. His writing is alllll over the whiteboard, it is hard to follow, messy, and all over the place. Do yourself a favor and don't take calc1 with him. Worst math teacher I have ever had.

2.0
1.0
MATH0828
Grade: A+
Nov 28, 2022

Nice to me, but rude to other students who ask questions. Goes off on tangents barely relating to class material, and makes many mistakes in his example problems. Syllabus was also full of mistakes, as a required essay is not present and has only just notified that the date for the final has been wrong the entire semester. Easy, but frustrating.

Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
MATH1041
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 19, 2022

If you have never taken calculus please don't take professor Coughlin. He teaches not off of doing problems but instead, he proves everything. This does not help if you are just trying to learn how to do the problems in the homework and for the exam, I had to teach myself. This class is not only hard but will take over your life.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
MATH1041
Grade: A
Mar 15, 2023
Would take again

I Love Professor Coughlin! He is so nice. Most of the time he gives explanations of theorems and formulas. By working on the homework, you should practice problems. It's your job to do. He gives great notes, his quizzes are not challenging, and the homework due date is the last day of the class. Highly recommend Dr. Coughlin.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
3.0
3.0
CRITICALREAS
Grade: A
Apr 7, 2023

Honestly his lectures are the most boring thing ever. It is really hard to pick up on the what he teaches in this course in the beginning, but you will get it better over time. He is definitely nice and cares about his students though. Attendance wasn't mandatory but I recommend going until you understand it.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
CRITICALREAS
Grade: A
Jul 21, 2023

I did get an A in the class but only because I pretty much taught the coursework to myself. The professor goes off on tangents about his accomplishments and his daughters and then forgets where he left off. The only grades are tests so make sure you study well for them.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

42%

Textbook Required

62%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 30 grades
Most common grades:
A (12)
A+ (6)
B+ (5)
Grade Distribution
A(18)B(4)C(0)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(7)
Based on 33 reported grades
A: 12
A+: 6
B+: 5
B: 4
Common Tags
Graded by few things (9)
Skip class? You won't pass. (8)
Lecture heavy (5)
Test heavy (4)
LECTURE HEAVY (3)
Respected (3)
Clear grading criteria (3)
Inspirational (3)
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