3.0

Robin Brown

Cultural Studies - University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

3.0
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
100%
Would Retake
127
Reviews
3.0
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
3.2
Helpful
2.8
Clarity

100%

Would Retake

127

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

40

4

17

3

22

2

22

1

26

What Students Say

It does not matter how hard you try in this class

CSCL1001 - 1.0 rating

Robin's probably the best prof I've had at the U so far

CSCL3323 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

20%

Textbook Required

93%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

83% confidence
Based on 11 grades
Most common grades:
A (8)
C (1)
Drop/Withdrawal (1)
Grade Distribution
A(8)B(1)C(1)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 12 reported grades
A: 8
C: 1
Drop/Withdrawal: 1
B: 1
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (2)
Hilarious (2)
Caring (1)
GROUP PROJECTS (1)
Respected (1)
Participation matters (1)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.50 avg change
Feb
May
Jun
May
Apr
May
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

2005

5.0

(1)

10013331

5.0

(1)

CLSL1001

5.0

(1)

CST101

5.0

(1)

HUMANITIES

5.0

(1)
+7 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CST101

4.0

CSCLO1001

4.0

CS1001

4.0

CSCL1001

3.8

CSCL3331

3.4

Reviews (127)
5.0
2.0
CLSL1001
Jul 28, 2003

He gives very interesting lectures and really makes you think. One of my favorite professors here!

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Sep 2, 2003

Wonderful class, very supportive.

5.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Nov 17, 2003

he's pretty cool. helps a lot, if you ask him too. his lectures are interesting, but he kinda talks too broad . its hard to focus. but he's a great professor!

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Dec 2, 2003

Very intelligent, yet slightly dirty...dwells on sexuality a little more than is neccessary.

1.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Feb 20, 2004

No Comments

5.0
4.0
CSCL
Mar 4, 2004

Good lectures, interesting. One of my favorite professors here, no question.

3.0
3.0
CSCL
Mar 9, 2004

No Comments

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
May 11, 2004

I strongly disliked this class, and I found it very hard to well. Disliked all the sexual topics.

3.0
5.0
CSCL1001
May 11, 2004

This was the most confusing and 'out of the box' class I've ever taken. Robin goes a tad overboard when discussing women's bodies compared to men's. Very uncomfortable for females.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jun 12, 2004

sucks

5.0
4.0
CST101
Jul 26, 2004

class is hard, but he's really good

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Oct 13, 2004

Class is hard, and he doesn't care if everyone is failing. Somewhat interesting, but tends to go overboard. Not very helpful in explaining things. Too hard for an introductory class, if you really like cultural studies then take this class.

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Nov 14, 2004

Robin is an interesting prof, but he is very broad. It had interesting topics, but he went way too in-depth for an intro class. Take this class only if you are seriously intested and motivated, not just "it sounds cool..."

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Dec 15, 2004

Excellent

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Dec 16, 2004

He always goes off on tangents and I never knew what he wanted on tests. I tried asking him for help and he basically accused me of not reading the text! After that I really hated the class. I was really frustrated with this class and don't think it should be offered as an introductory course.

5.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Dec 29, 2004

one of the coolest and most informative classes i have ever took. The instructor had a great personality, very approachable.

5.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Feb 18, 2005

totally awesome prof. good at making complex, difficult theories totally understandable and accessible. interesting and funny lectures too. best for open minds though, not for uptight people uncomfortable with discussing how culture shapes the human body.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Mar 7, 2005

The class presents some interesting ideas, it does get you thinking, but I definitely don't buy all of it. The grading is super hard, and they arent very clear about what you should do. I would much rather take a different class.

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Apr 15, 2005

This is too much for an intro course. Robin goes way off into places and I have no idea what hes talking about sometimes. Unclear with what to do for tests and papers. He expects everyone to be as knowledgeable as himself at cultural studies.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Apr 18, 2005

The lecture style is scattered, and sometimes he's too gleeful about the coolness of the ideas when he's talking about, say, domestic violence. Tests will be super hard if you haven't actually thought about the readings. He seems genuinely interested in helping everyone learn.

3.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Apr 23, 2005

I don't think anyone has any idea wtf this guy is talking about.

1.0
4.0
CSCL1001
May 14, 2005

Rambles on about nothing. He is not very helpful when you go in for office hours. Most of the time I just left more confused. He also said that he would notice our efforts and help us out with our grade at the end of the semester. I ended up with a c- after the fact that i went to office hours once a week...so much for helping us out.

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
May 17, 2005

This class is hard, especially the first midterm. After a while though, it gets easier because the stuff he talks about is more recent. He does weight your final and second paper more if you do better on them then your first paper and midterm. The class will be difficult if you don't read. Overall it's a good a good course and he's a nice guy.

5.0
3.0
HUMANITIES
May 21, 2005

Very intelligent man, I do not see why students are complaining, apparently they are not seeking help enough. I learned a lot from this class and highly recommend this professer.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Grade: C
Aug 18, 2005

I thought this was a great class - I personally found it interesting, and I'm not even in CLA, so I originally took it to fill my Cultural Diversity requirement. He is one of the best profs I've had so far, and he is genuinely concerned about the well-being of his students. You just have to meet him in person, or at least talk to a T.A.

5.0
1.0
2005
Aug 30, 2005

No Comments

5.0
2.0
CSCL
Aug 31, 2005

Brown makes CSCL accesible. He knows it can be difficult and does not have an unreasonable amount of expectations in his intro courses. This department is not for everyone, however, take the intro course with Brown and you will learn a lot.

5.0
2.0
CSCL
Oct 9, 2005

Robin is a good teacher, although he gets off topic in lecture. I recommend taking the intro course with him.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Oct 31, 2005

He rambles on about things no one understands, Critiques papers really hard. I don’t recommend if you don’t think like a cultural studies student or aren’t good at critical, theoretical, or interpretive thinking. Not an easy intro course. Readings are hard, and you can't do well by passive involvement. Requires consistent, engaged work.

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 9, 2005

Basically if your a radical liberal then this cynical paranoid class is the one for you. Cheers to anyone who looks at a magazine ad and just turns the page...instead of doing an indepth analytical cultural analysis about how they photo shopped the womans neck to make you feel bad.

4.0
4.0
CSCL3331
Jan 10, 2006

I still couldn't tell you what this class was actually about. The readings were interesting and lectures were, too. But it seemed very unclear how it all fit together. Group project was nice, simple, and fun. He graded fairly. You really can't get away with not doing the readings. Pretty confusing overall but i still pulled off a B-

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Mar 28, 2006

This is the hardest intro class I have ever taken. The teacher is a nut who rambles on and most of the time makes no sense. The class sounded really interesting to me before I started it, but I was very disapointed in it.

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Mar 31, 2006

Robin Brown is an excellent professor. His lectures are thought provoking and insightful. He showed the class how to think critically about the constructs of modern society in light of our history. The readings were interesting and helpful, but you needed to do them to get by. His exams were fair and open book.

4.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Apr 3, 2006

Robin's great. Seriously one of the best lecturers I've ever seen.

5.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Apr 21, 2006

Robin is a great teacher and help for all students.

5.0
1.0
CSCL1001
Jul 29, 2006

Greatest teacher I have ever had.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Nov 11, 2006

Best class I've taken in college.

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Nov 15, 2006

Very deragatory and offensive.

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Nov 22, 2006

You have to be pretty open-minded to take his class, but if you can handle that it's well worth the time. It is one of my favorite classes!

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Nov 29, 2006

Robin is engaging, lively and yes, outspoken, but it is always to emphasize his point. He can say shocking things, but if you keep an open mind you should do fine. You have to work hard to get an A but it's fun work. READ THE MATERIAL!BE IN CLASS! and you will do fine. It is my favorite class and favorite teacher so far.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Dec 13, 2006

Lectures were really interesting and fun, but got more and more confusing. You have to read and go to lecture if you really want to get it. He's really helpful if you go to office hours. Don't think it's an easy intro class, because it isn't at all. MUST be open minded to take the class, or you may get easily offended.

4.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Dec 21, 2006

Robin is very a very fun and interesting professor. If you are looking for an easy class that you don't have to go to or think critically this is NOT the class for you. If you try hard you can get a lot out of it. HARD intro class.

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Jan 19, 2007

Was very helpful with helping me understand the information after I struggled.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Mar 7, 2007

To repeat others: This is not a blow off class, but it is immensely relevant and fun. Read the text, go to class, you should get a good grade AND think about the world in new ways. (Why we're here, isn't it?) ;)Keep an open mind. Minnesota Nice has left the building, and things the culture doesn't like to talk about will be addressed blunty.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Apr 15, 2007

Robin is VERY full of himself. He claims to have about 15 degrees. He acts like he's an expert on every topic. Started the class liking him, in class I now constantly laugh at how clueless he really is. He seems to be nice in general as a person, but as a teacher, he's just nuts. He claims to "have your back" and "grade easy" it's a LIE!!!

3.0
5.0
CSCL1001
May 10, 2007

This is a very hard class! Robin is a funny guy with a wide knowledge on this topic, however it is sometimes hard to grasp and he tends to go off on random tangents. You will like the class if you can understand the HARD topics covered and if you like Robin's wit.

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
May 18, 2007

Prof. Brown is an interesting guy to chat with, though his ability to teach effectively is lacking. He is at times very full of himself, flaunting his self proclaimed extensive knowledge around the classroom. His TA's are very egotistical, and offer little help to confused students. Don't take this class unless you have prior subject knowledge!

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
May 19, 2007

I went into the writing center for help with my essay and the tutor (English master's student) asked if she could have a copy of the essay guidelines the prof wrote up because she said they were exactly what the center needed as an example for teachers to NOT do! she thought they were incredibly confusing and generally unreadable. terrible prof!!!!

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Nov 27, 2007

Hard to understand, very tough grader

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Dec 3, 2007

Everyone take this warning seriously: This class is not for he close minded. He will talk about sex, gender, and sexuality (in really complex yet extremely interesting ways), so if you are not comfortable talking about these issues do not take this class. Grading is tough, but if you put forth the effort he will too. It is hard, but worth it!

4.0
5.0
CSCL3331
Dec 11, 2007

If you don't have extensive knowledge in either the Humanities, or the Sciences... DON'T take this class. I was one of four underclassmen, everyone else was a fifth year senior! He throws dense material at you on a daily basis. The class consumed my entire semester. He is an interesting teacher, but the writing assignments are VERY unstructured.

5.0
4.0
CSCL3331
Dec 13, 2007

The class was not all 5th years; I'm a third year senior and there were lots of juniors. It's a 3XXX level class, so freshmen need to deal with the fact that it's not for them. Robin is a fascinating professor, although if you've never taken a CSCL class it might be shocking. Ask for help and you'll get it.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Jan 4, 2008

Smart and interesting guy but doesn't really care about the students at all. Doesn't realize that C isn't REALLY average at the university so thinks giving you a C is a decent grade. The topics are really interesting though, I'd almost consider taking it S-N but not A-F if you care about your gpa.

4.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Jan 6, 2008

Great professor, very helpful, interesting lecturer. This was my intro to CSCL class and was very enjoyable thanks to Prof. Brown. While the course material is sometimes laughable, he does what he can to help clarify. Also, very humorous lectures.

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jan 8, 2008

grading is difficult and his lectures are hard to follow.

3.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Jan 22, 2008

I'm a foreign student and it was really hard for me to understand this teatcher when he was speaking. If you're foreign you can have take home exams, that's the good point, but he won't be nicer with you for spelling and grammar.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Mar 12, 2008

Do not take this class if your are looking for an easy class like I did. Ive done one essay and have a test tomorrow and the grading sucks. I took it pass fail and I am just praying I pass.

4.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Mar 28, 2008

Those reading previous negative comments: ignore them. If you want to waste your money and take classes that require no effort or refuse to open your mind to new ideas,this class isn't for you. It's the best class I've taken so far. Robin will remember your name in this huge lecture with alittle effort on your part, and help as much as possible.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Apr 2, 2008

Wonderful guy. Not only is he interesting, engaging, and really intelligent, but he's also sincerely interested in helping his students succeed, even in gigantic lectures. He can tend to ramble from time to time, and he seems to have upwards of 70 degress, but these are small discresions. The class can be intimidating, but definitely worth it.

4.0
4.0
CSCLO1001
Apr 4, 2008

This class is extremely interesting and makes you think. The professor is really good at what he teaches, and is willing to help anyone get the grade they want. However, it requires attendance of all classes, lots of reading, and willingness to do what it takes to get an A. A difficult introduction class.

4.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Apr 30, 2008

Robin is an interesting character, which makes his classes enjoyable. You have to work hard to get an A, but if you are serious about school and enjoy the subject, you will do fine. Seeing a TA or him outside of class for extra help is beneficial. Do your readings and take notes! What you learn from this class is worth the extra effort!

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jun 17, 2008

This class was extremely challenging.Claim to be "there for you on grades" no way! Grading is harder than graduate classes/had a phd. writer help me.Class started as interesting but as it went I realized it was like a sermon. The preacher/professor teaches heavy secular humanist ideology. Ripped on Intelligent Design heavy and preached Darwinism.

4.0
4.0
CS1001
Jun 27, 2008

TAKE THIS CLASS AND IT WILL CHANGE THE WAY YOU LOOK AND ACT IN LIFE!!! I LOVED IT BUT PREPARE TO BE BLOWN AWAY!

4.0
4.0
CSCL3331
Jul 17, 2008

This class was very challenging but I loved it. One of my favorite classes I've taken so far at the University. I highly recommend Robin for any class he teaches, he's extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. The class forced me to think about things from different perspectives. Also, I took this class during my sophomore year and I was OK.

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Aug 16, 2008

Very confusing class. Hard to stay awake. Prof also got mad when people would fall asleep which sucked

4.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Aug 21, 2008

I found this class very difficult. Robin is entertaining and I thought it was interesting to listen to him for the most part, but when it came to writing a paper I found that I hadn't actually learned that much. Must come to class and pay attention and like the subject otherwise he might just annoy you.

3.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Nov 7, 2008

He rambles way to much. Nothing makes sense. Its interesting at first but eventually he gets repetitive and its hard to stay awake. He gets mad and makes a big deal if you come late sleep leave early or your phone rings. Its hard to tell what he wants on the test he doesnt even know. I think hes going crazy. Take his class S/N if you dont need it.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Dec 2, 2008

Realllllly interesting class, you definitely begin to look at the world differently. The online quizzes are ridiculous however. I am a good student and I usually got a 50%. Great class but you actually have to go(imagine that!?) because it changes the way you think. Without the new learned perspective you cannot write ANY of the essays successfully

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 8, 2008

The class material is really difficult but Professor Brown is totally available--surprisingly so for someone with so many T.A.s! Attendance is important, though not mandatory. If you don't go, you'll feel and see the impact on your grades.

5.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Sep 22, 2009

awesome

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Sep 24, 2009

I love his class, it really makes you think about what you thought you knew.

1.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Nov 15, 2009

WORST TEACHER EVER. He is disrespectful to students if they have questions, rude, and completely gets off topic wasting the students' time and money! DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS WITH THIS TEACHER!!

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Nov 19, 2009

Robin has made this class one of the worst experiences of my life. The class description sounds really interesting, but don't let that fool you. The text book is extremely complex, we never go over those readings, and he gets way too off topic during lectures. Worst class at the U. Do not take!

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Dec 8, 2009

He is the worst teacher EVER! drop any class you may have with him!!! he will make your semester a living hell. he never addresses the complexe readings and get off topic and talks about things that are not on the exams or in the papers. he says dont worry you will be fine, he is lying. he says come in for help, he and the TA's are usless. DROP!!!

4.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 13, 2009

Robin Brown is an incredible teacher;though admittedly he rambles and is not always clear, he is always interesting . You NEED to go talk to him in office hours and engage yourself in the class via emails as well,he wants to help you.It will help you in the end.The readings are complex, but try to take what you can from it, its an intro class.

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Dec 22, 2009

Robin sucks! He's the most random teacher ever! It's hard to follow along in class and even harder to read the readings. He only issues two textbook, but then sends out dozen of readings. The things he sends are microscopic and boring, its impossible to read, yet he expect you to understand it. Highly do not recomment taking this useless course.

3.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 23, 2009

Robin is a sweet man, but his lectures were horrid. Good luck taking notes, I'd suggest tape recording his lectures to filter out his babbling randomness. The course description is misleading and the theories taught are ridiculous and he never goes over them in lecture. The curve was helpful but this was a painful class too hard for it to be a 1001

2.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Jan 12, 2010

A good guy, but tough to follow and assigns ridiculously confusing readings that are never explained. However, the curve is insane. I didn't take any of the quizzes and forgot about 2 of the 3 assigned essays but still passed the class pretty easily. not a bad class but i probably wouldn't recommend it.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jan 12, 2010

This class will definitely be a waste of your time. I don't recommend this course at all. I also believe that the course description is very misleading.. He gets personal with his grading, which is definitely not what a professor should do. I got a much lower grade, after acing a project, than I had before I turned the project in.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jan 20, 2010

I HATED this class. The lectures are just Robin rambling about nothing that you need to know. The readings are ridiculous and even if you complete them and think you understand them (which you won?t and they?ll never be explained) you?ll never be able to answer a test question to Robin?s expectations. Seriously, just don?t take this class.

3.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Jan 20, 2010

I'm not sure what these people giving him bad ratings were expecting. This is a critical thinking course the requires you to draw on your knowledge of the world around you combined with the readings that are assigned. If you don't want to go to lecture this isn't the class for you. Pay attention and do a good job and there shouldn't be any issues.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jan 20, 2010

I also very strongly don't recommend this class. It?s not as simple as ?go to lecture and you?ll learn the material.? When it asks you to "draw on your own ideas and experiences" it actually means "here?s an assignment that asks you to cite what a bunch of cultural studies phD people think." Even with a curve the class isn't worth taking.

1.0
2.0
CSCL1001
May 23, 2010

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. The subject is interesting and assignments are pretty easy if you pick the right T.A. to grade your essays, but Robin is extremely difficult to follow so lecture is frustrating. Assignments don't use original thinking, but just restate his examples so GO TO LECTURES OR YOU'LL FAIL THE TESTS! I got an A but wasted my time

2.0
3.0
CSCL1001
May 23, 2010

I took an entire semester to cool off from this class. I will say that I think Robin means well, &that some people DO succeed, but I think this class was completely pointless to the masses. Your success mainly depends on which TA grades your paper & what you decide is important enough to write down as notes. I wouldn't waste your time.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Aug 27, 2010

This class does not represent any of the CSCL classes well at all! He is the worst professor I have ever had. I just hope that the people that have never taken a CSCL class before get a bad taste from this class just because Robin is a nutcase

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Oct 20, 2010

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. Worst class I've ever taken. I made the mistake of picking it as an elective. Lectures have nothing to do with the tests and his grading makes no sense to the point you can't even figure out your own grade. Honestly, he's just terrible. You've been warned.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Oct 20, 2010

Wow, that's all I can say. Wow what a waste of my time. Wow what a waste of credits. Wow what a waste of brain power. Wow just a stupid class. I regret not dropping it everyday.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Oct 20, 2010

I registered for this site SOLELY because of Robin Brown. He was uncooperative when it came to helping students and was condscending about it to. How he presents the material is ludacris. He makes no sense so everyone below saying 'just go to lectures' is lying. And I agree, his grading procedures suck. This is a terrible, TERRIBLE class.

2.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Oct 27, 2010

Do not take this class. Waste of time. None of his discussions makes sense, and his projects are impossible to do good on. On top of that, the way he grades is not fair whatsoever. It is impossible to do anything right (In Robin's eyes) in this class. Doing exactly what is asked and receiving a 2.5 out of 8? Not alright by me.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Nov 12, 2010

Even if you can handle him and his lectures, that doesn't change the fact that his grading is unfair and his TAs aren't any help either. I met with a TA after receiving a poor grade on a paper and she couldn't explain why I received that grade - when she graded it. I took it as an elective and I told my advisor to NEVER recommend it to anyone ever.

1.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Nov 13, 2010

I don't think that his grading is that difficult if you parrot his ideas, but this class is an just a retread of some 1970's cultural studies reader. He is also spastic as a lecturer.

2.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Nov 13, 2010

Robin Brown is a nice guy who looks out for his students, but his teaching is horrible. The entire class is a power struggle with his TAs. They fight over who will talk, but it doesn't matter because you won't understand what they are teaching. Grading is extremely tough. My advice: find a different class.

4.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Dec 10, 2010

THEY GIVE YOU EVERY SINGLE FINAL QUESTING THROUGHOUT THE SESTER! This class was amazing, you learn about so many different opinions and you get to voice your own. The prof is from Pittsburg so he will interrupt and talk over you, but that is just his nature, he is not doing it to be rude! Really interesting readings, and the lecture is a lot of fun

4.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Dec 10, 2010

Teaching style is very open, they let you talk and say whatever you want! Brown is so much fun and attending lecture is the best part! They give you the final's questions (all of them) throughout the entire semester, and even answer them, so I suggest going to class!

4.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 21, 2010

Attendance isn't mandated, but all questions for final are provided. Strange teaching dynamic, instructor and three TA's constantly interrupt one another - I often wonder who is teaching the class. Almost never use textbooks, concepts are generic. Overall, very interesting class, actually worth the walk to East Bank every morning.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Dec 29, 2010

Worst class I've ever taken. I recommend taking an Advil before going to class because no matter what you'll end up with a headache. Do not waste your time taking this awful class. The material is absurd and Robin is not a good professor.

1.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Feb 25, 2011

Looking back on 1001, wow. RB isn't that difficult a grader (I got an 'A' easily) but he loves the sound of his own voice, like all cscl profs.This can be OK if YOU like the sound of their voice as well. Some I do: his I didn't.

3.0
1.0
CSCL1001
Nov 14, 2011

I'm currently enrolled and despite having not gone to class in over a month, I have an 'A'. Pick good group members, put in an inkling of effort and you'll find yourself with two lib eds down and a cozy GPA booster.

2.0
2.0
CSCL1001
Dec 7, 2011

They grade you on critically you can think about culture. There is an online blog every weekend(a pain) but not too hard. There are readings but you don't have to do all of them. He also gives you all the final exam questions in class to write down so you can study them, but they're essay stuff so knowing them ahead of time isn't a lot of help.

2.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 14, 2011

Robin was... interesting. I did very well in his class, but that is becuase I'm naturally analytical to my surroundings and already knew the material. His lectures are NOT linear, he is very random and VERY unclear. If you have high interest for Cultural Studies, you will do well. If you are taking it for easy lib eds, this course will destroy you.

2.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Jan 30, 2012

His lectures are so half-baked that I stopped going half way through the semester. I did very few of the readings either. The blog postings will save you, and give you a pretty good idea of what you should know. I spent 10 minutes on the final and C+ is definitely better than I thought I would get.

5.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Mar 6, 2012

Robin's seriously one of the best teachers I've ever had. I'm an alum from 09'and looking back on his class, now as a professional, has made me realize just how valuable the knowledge and perspective I gained from him was/is. GO TALK TO HIM. If you took this class to do nothing, you'll get nothing and hate it. You're in school... learn something.

5.0
2.0
CSCL3331
Apr 14, 2012

Obviously, there are some who like cultural studies and some who don't. If you like power points and traditional pedagogy/teaching ways, I would suggest not taking a course with him. Otherwise, if you have an open mind, he is the most amazing teacher you will ever have.

5.0
2.0
CSCL001
Dec 1, 2012

Robin was awesome! I wasnt that interested in the topic so I didn't like the class that much, but he made it bearable. Hes extremely approachable and wont talk down to you if you ask questions. Seems to genuinely care about his students, gives you all the final exam questions throughout the semester, so go to class, put in effort and its an easy A.

3.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 16, 2012

Robin was helpful if you e-mailed or went to office hours. The lectures go off in a tangent most of the time though and there are no powerpoints or anything so they're pretty difficult to follow. He's understanding and is willing to help but probably wouldn't recommend this class.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 17, 2012

Robin is a fascinating professor; for anyone genuinely interested in the topics covered in the class (or any topic really), he's a fantastic resource. Otherwise, the class is incredibly easy to pass: you are given all of the questions for the final in advance, and the test itself is open note. There is no excuse for failing this class.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Jan 11, 2013

Robin is honestly one of the most fascinating people that I know. His accomplishments and knowledge for almost everything is amazing. His way of teaching can be confusing and you have to decipher what he's trying to say at some times. But I loved how he put the class in the students hands and really cared about what we thought about the topics.

2.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Apr 29, 2013

At first Robin seems really organized, but you come out of lecture having learned nothing. You keep talking about what you learned the first week of class for the rest of the semester, and he is constantly interrupting everyone else. Hated this class. Found him very annoying.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
May 3, 2013

The man loves his students, go to his office and tell him what you're thinking, anything is fair game. If you aren't a skeptic, and don't want to be, don't take his course. If you don't consider critical thinking fun, this will be boring for you! Otherwise, you'll have a blast! It will prepare you well for advanced social science courses.

3.0
4.0
CSCL1001
Aug 9, 2013

Robin is a really good guy, so I give him props for that. He was always really open to helping his students. However, I agree with the previous posts about TA interruptions and confusing material. Not sure if I would recommend to someone who wants an easy A...

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Grade: A
Sep 2, 2013

Robin is an incredible and interesting teacher. Though classes are not mandatory, you'll be lost if you don't attend. All questions on the final are given during classes and if you have any questions both Robin and the TAs are always available to help. Great class, I enjoyed it immensely and it put a lot of things into perspective for me.

2.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Oct 2, 2013

You talk about what you learn in the first two weeks of class for the rest of the semester. The TAs always interrupt and the lectures have no substance. It's a glorified group chat, and you waste a lot of time listening to the most opinionated people in the class. The subject has such potential, but the course needed a more concrete structure.

2.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Nov 21, 2013

Very confusing. Hard to know what your grade is in the class so it will be a complete surprise after the final. Robin is passionate, but distracted. Class is hard to follow and expectations are unclear. Some TAs are easy graders, mine was very hard. Blog posts weekly are annoying. I do not recommend this class as easy lib eds

3.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 16, 2013

Robin is a very nice person. If you have the time to go and talk a little with him, it will help. That being said, he's extremely scatterbrained, the lectures make little to no sense, and he and his TAs (or at least the one I had) have extremely high expectations for an intro level class. Pick a good partner for blog posts.

3.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Dec 18, 2013

Although class is mandatory, I never really got anything of value from his lectures. He's actually pretty interesting and he raises some intriguing questions, but on the whole this class is all over the place. It's not that hard, but it's kind of a pain. As far as I'm concerned though, you could do a lot worse for an elective.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jan 9, 2014

It does not matter how hard you try in this class. You will never get an A unless you are Robin himself. I just can't seem to stick my head up my butt far enough to understand this nuisance. Do not take this class as you will probably want to drop out of college after taking it. Lectures are very abstract and TA's grade harder than my Calc 2 class.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Jan 9, 2014

I urge you not to take this class. It is like enlightenment, you will never find the true answer unless you are Buddha himself. That is the teacher, Robin Brown. If you want to lower your GPA then please take this class.

5.0
2.0
10013331
Grade: A
Oct 23, 2014

Had Robin for two classes, Intro to CSCL and Science and Culture. He was great for both. He is always understanding and willing to talk and explore ideas.

1.0
5.0
CSCL1001
Nov 4, 2014

Do not take this class. Material was mildly interesting, however grading is ridiculously arbitrary. Take it, if you like getting really mediocre grades on everything you do.

5.0
3.0
CSCL1001
Grade: A
Nov 18, 2014

Robin Brown is one of my favorite professors that I have had at the University of Minnesota. He was one of my first profs in CSCL 1001 and I had him again in CSCL 3301 Science and Culture because I liked him so much. He is engaging in lecture, and as long as you attend class and listen to his hints, you will do beautifully.

4.0
4.0
CSCL3331
Grade: A
Jul 29, 2015

You will be challenged to think out of the box in this class but in the way the is super exciting! Robyn in HILARIOUS. It would be difficult to fall asleep in his lectures. He is intimidating because he is so intelligent, but he has a lot of great things to say if you approach him after class!

4.0
2.0
CSCL3331
Grade: A
Feb 25, 2016

Robin was one of the funniest and most insightful professors I've had at the U.

1.0
3.0
CSCL3331
Grade: B
May 18, 2016

He barely teaches the material and you will learn nothing. Terrible professor with an annoying personality.

5.0
3.0
CSCL3331
Grade: A
Jun 22, 2016
Would take again

Robert is a wonderful professor! It's true that he tends to ramble, and his personality is not for everyone, but I really enjoyed his class! Definitely try to see him outside of class, if you can.

3.0
3.0
CSCL3331
Grade: B+
May 5, 2017
Would take again

He's an overall genuine guy, though he rambles. A LOT. His lectures are very engaging and at times interesting with his quips about the subject matter but honestly not needed. For the course (at the time of this post) no test or quizzes but discussion posts every week and three group projects is what you'll be needing to do to pass the course.

Caring
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
2.0
CSCL3323
Grade: A
Apr 18, 2018
Would take again

Such a nice guy. Really passionate about virtually everything and he does love to talk. Easy A kind of course where he doesn't take attendance but you kind of want to go because of how interesting the guy is.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
CSCL3323
Grade: A
May 26, 2018
Would take again

Robin's probably the best prof I've had at the U so far. Attendance isn't mandatory (but truly does help), he grades fairly, and doesn't give too much work, knowing that we all have busy lives. It sadly was the last year he had teaching, but if you ever somehow have the opportunity to learn from him, you won't regret it! Inspirational guy.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Hilarious
Class Info

Attendance Mandatory

20%

Textbook Required

93%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

83% confidence
Based on 11 grades
Most common grades:
A (8)
C (1)
Drop/Withdrawal (1)
Grade Distribution
A(8)B(1)C(1)D(1)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 12 reported grades
A: 8
C: 1
Drop/Withdrawal: 1
B: 1
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (2)
Hilarious (2)
Caring (1)
GROUP PROJECTS (1)
Respected (1)
Participation matters (1)
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5.0

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5.0

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