2.2
Quality3.9
Difficulty18%
Would Retake159
Reviews18%
Would Retake
159
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
11
4
19
3
36
2
32
1
61
What Students Say
“But it's definitely doable”
PHIL397 - 5.0 rating“He always explains everything well and lectures a lot”
GPHIL150 - 4.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
37%
Textbook Required
53%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B-
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Declining
-0.74 avg changeRatings by Course
GPHIL0001
5.0
(1)PHIL397
5.0
(2)PHIL410
3.5
(2)GPHIL120
2.9
(36)GPHIL150
2.6
(27)Difficulty by Course
PHIL120
5.0
PHIL397
5.0
PHIL220
5.0
PHIL410
4.5
PHIL398
4.3
Reviews (159)
HORRIBLE! Ask questions all you want, and he will skirt around them. Notes are 100% copied from the textbook, which jumps around. Only grades are tests, and there is no cure..ever! Runs over class time, and shows up late for class. Extremely boring as well
He is not that bad. The powerpoints come straight from the book, so you never have to read the textbook. No attendance policy. And he does try and answer your questions as best he can, but sometimes he just doesn't get what your asking. 4 tests, no final exam. the beginning of the class is easy but the end is very hard. go to class & pay attention.
Pretty bad teacher. Doesn't answer questions correctly and doesn't even seem to understand what he is teaching. He just reads the power points that he puts up each day which come straight from the book. He grades on attendance but doesn't tell you that until the end of the semester. Try to get out of his class, if you can't then good luck.
I had to really work for my grade. Four tests, no final--each test is weighted a little higher than the previous. The average one each test was in the low to mid 70s. All you do in class is take notes off powerpoints, but the info. is exactly what he will test you when you take a test. Overall, a pretty good teacher for a pretty boring subject.
GET OUT NOW. This is not a joke.I had straight A's in high school, I studied for 5 hours for the first test and got a 74, class average was a 67. Lectures are unbearably boring, doesn't answer questions, please just get out while you can
I dont know why I bother going to class, he talks about the same stuff every class, never learn anything new and doesn't answer anyone's questions even if its a simple yes or no
I think Dr. Lupher does a really great job of going over all the material. If you go to classes and take notes, then you'll have no reason to read the textbook. My class asks lots of questions and he is willing to answer each and everyone.
Lupher is a nice guy but he is very hard to understand. I think he might me to smart for his own good. I would not advise taking this class. I study my butt off just to get a C- on the tests...
He really tries to make you understand the information but he is so monotone and boring its impossible. the book does a better way of explaining then he does. this class is really hard. if your not interested you should probably drop. I failed every test and studied alot and went to every class.
Honestly he is not a very good teacher. Its really hard to stay awake in his class and he makes lectures extemely boring. there are 3 examsn and then a final. If you want to pass then do not miss class and read the book, otherwise good luck!
This class is really hard, and only because he does not teach and the book is written so only scholars can make sense of it. Class is boring and the tests are really confusing with how they were worded. I am a good student, and I struggled a lot with this class. Avoid!
Lupher isn't that bad. Sure, lecture can be lengthy and monotonous, but he explains everything very well. As long as you pay attention, go to class and reference the text book (all of the notes are straight from the book) you should do fine. Quizzes are on what the class covered that day. Very easy if you were in class. Tests can be challenging.
The class is definitely not easy. You must pay full attention and take awesome notes. The tests are challenging but if you study, you will get what you deserve. This class takes thought and effort. Not an easy gen-ed!
This class is annoying. Not only is it EXTREMELYYY boring, but his tests are MUCH harder than his lectures. Don't bother going to class-his lectures are literally WORD FOR WORD from the book, examples and all. Just read the book, and read it well.
test are HARD! but if you like traditional teaching style with no frivolous group assignments or dumb projects and no requirement to participate then this class is perfect! just make sure you go to class, read, and STUDY
Such an easy class if you really take advantage of class tips. VERY boring, but easy if you really pay attention and come to every class. Be sure to do all examples in the book, and skimming the book clarifies everything. Tests are tricky, but honestly come straight from his notes. Flashcards of everything in the notes saved me!
This class is common sense! You learn about arguments and truth tables of that such and is not hard at all. Don't think too much into it and you'll be fine. He is probably one of the smartest people I've met, and because of that, he has trouble understanding questions asked almost like he doesn't understand the student's level of intelligence.
This is not a hard class at all, but the test (especially the last one) pretty hard.And sooooo repetitive, so if you don't know just one topic be prepared to get an 80. Tests are spitting image of the textbook. I didn't have a book, but ended with a B- Four test are 90% of the grade online quizzes are 10% Perks: No final!
He is extremely boring and literally his powerpoints are from the book...word for word. He can't explain anything very well, and always has a smirk like he has it out for you! Only 4 tests, but they are super tricky. Read the books before the tests and you will do fine, but unless you want to do all the work yourself, do not take this class!!!
Professor Lupher powerpoint is straight from the textbook, just buy and read the textbook, he is quite boring in class and tends to not answer questions from students.
Lupher doesn't really care about his students or their performance. He's not very helpful and there isn't really a point in going to class. He is sometimes condescending when students ask questions. No real point in going to class. Buy and read the textbook and other materials and you will get a good grade.
I wouldn't even call Dr. Lupher a teacher. All he does is copy the text from the textbook and present it on a powerpoint. Do yourself a favor, don't take GPHIL120 with Dr. Lupher. Either Dr. Lupher does not care about his job or he is unable to teach by his nature. All of my other professors at JMU have been great...
lupher explains everything very clearly, much better than the book. people get into trouble b/c half the class doesn't show up for lecture. he is very helpful he even let me fill out my scantron again b/c when i erased you could still see the pencil marking. i thought this class would be bad it really isn't. just read , go to class and use flashcar
Great professor and an easy class! Go to class and you will hardly have to read the book and the tests will be real easy because his powepoints pull the major points of the book that will be tested and he does several examples in class that will significantly help on the tests. Very approachable and helpful and willing to answer any questions.
Very boring and not helpful. Attending class definitely helps A LOT. I missed a lot of classes and that screwed me over. I would not recommend taking from him though.
He's a quirky guy, you come to like him pretty quickly. His tests are fairly easy if you understand the material, pay attention in lectures, and study examples from the book. Overall it's not much. Plus 3 question quizzes that are really easy and no homework. He is easy to understand and always willing to answer questions.
Easy A if you go to class. He doesn't take attendance. But, YOU HAVE TO GO TO CLASS. He doesn't post quizzes or test dates on Blackboard. You won't know about them if you don't go to class. There are 4 tests and a few online quizzes. No final exam. Each test is worth more points than the last one.
AVOID AT ALL COSTS. I have no idea what the people below this are saying about him being approachable or a good professor because he is condescending and always has a smirk on his face. The tests are HARD. Read the textbook and go to every class and you'll pass but there are much better GPHIL professors.
Philosophy of Science. This was one of the hardest courses I have taken at JMU. Proff. Lupher goes through 40-50 PP slides in a single lecture, making it almost impossible to take accurate notes (he does not allow laptop use). Don't get me wrong the material itself is challenging, however he could take more time to explain in greater detail
I can honestly say that Luper was the WORST teacher I have ever encountered. His class is painfully boring, and he explains the material in the most confusing way. I tried going to his office hours many times and the experience was both uncomfortable and frustrating. His tests are very difficult, and there is no extra credit or extra help offered.
He was the worst professor I have ever had at JMU. He is not only boring and confusing, but he does nothing to help his students. Also it is very hard to take notes in his class because he speeds through lectures and often contradicts himself. Test are very confusing too, AVOID AT ALL COSTS YOU AND YOUR GPA WILL THANK YOU
This is the worst class you will take at JMU. I am a good student and study very hard for all of his exams and I don't get over a C. He is confusing and a horrible grader. If you volunteer to take this class you will regret it your entire semester. DO NOT TAKE HIM THIS CLASS IS HORRIBLE AND WILL RUIN YOUR GPA!!!!!!!!
DO NOT TAKE THIS!! I have no idea how people on here have thought it was easy, but this class is the most boring, confusing, and annoying one I've ever had. No joke it seriously made me re-think going to college. I studied,went to class/office hours, and had a tutor and still struggled…for your own sake AVOID!!
Not an easy A, but attend class and take lots of notes and you'll be fine. Boring and awkward but a nice guy. Make sure to participate and ask/answer questions. Tests are straightforward off of notes and are worth more each time (first is 15%, second 20%, third 25%, fourth 30%) which is nice.
Nice guy but not the best teacher. Tests were hard even though the stuff seemed easy in class. Read the textbook even though it'll seem like you don't have to and go to office hours and it should help.
very nice and very smart but does not convey material well, very confusing, gives tests on very large range of content, lectures the entire class (your hand will be so tired after each class from so much writing),
He plays music at the beginning of every class, which is really cool. He's a really chill guy. only take the class if like learning about paradoxes and forming arguments! I love that stuff so I love the class, but some people hate it because they hate that kinda stuff. Attend class and you'll do great.
Professor Lupher is a really nice guy! It's clear that he's passionate about what he's talking about, however, his lectures seem to drag on. Be prepared to take tons of notes. The class seems way too complicateddifficult for it to be considered a Gen. Ed. There's barely any discussion so if that's not your forte then you may enjoy it.
I don't recommend taking this class with Tracey Lupher. The lecture and content in this class is already hard enough, but he just makes it worse. His lectures are boring and it doesn't help that I have this class very late at night. You don't ever really use the textbook and it is very confusing to read anyways.
I hated the class at first, but grew to love Lupher and even the class material! Go to class and take notes, ask questions if you have them and you should be fine. If you don't do so hot on the first exam, the other 3 can boost your grade, and he gives 3 question post class quizzes sometimes that are super easy and help out your grade as well!
Not nearly as bad as the reviews say. Professor Lupher spends a lot of time in class trying to make sure his students understand the material. Not the most exciting class, but definitely not as bad as people are saying.
Lupher typically contradicts himself during his own lectures and is not very good at explaining the material to the class. You can ask for help all you want, but his answers are not all that helpful. I failed a majority of his tests and only skipped one of his classes ever. The subject material is hard enough, and Lupher doesn't make it any easier.
Dr. Lupher is an extremely intelligent man. If you enjoy philosophy and understand it you should take the class. I will end up with a C in the class but that is because I didn't read like I was supposed to and keep up with the work. If you read before the class and take notes you should be fine!
This professor is brilliant. He is incredibly intelligent. If anyone gives him a bad rating or bad comment it's because they probably couldn't keep up with him. Due to the fact that he's brilliant. This class made me think on a whole another level and I'm so glad I took it with this professor.
Lupher was extremely boring but he did try to make this clear the best way he could. You write so many notes during class which is a killer but as long as you read the book, his tests are easy! Right out of the book and notes actually. Not an awful class!
He is not helpful at all. When you ask a question he talks down to you and says "what I think you're asking is...," instead of just answering your question. He rambles on and on about the topic, without clearly explaining the topic. Tests are all 50 questions multiple choice and hard as mess.
I had a terrible experience with Lupher. He seemed very arrogant and condescending in my opinion, as if it didn't matter what he taught us, we would never reach his level of "brilliance." Dense material and he doesn't post lectures online so you have to be in class. Didn't think the tests were too difficult personally
This was a terrible class. Such a boring class and its so hard to keep focus. He puts his power points up on canvas, but you have to go to class because he adds slides to his powerpoints. So basically if you don't go to class you wont pass. He is super strict about cell phones and laptops. I would avoid taking this class it was my least favorite
Lupher's class is definitely difficult. Going to class is a must and you will take lots of notes. Tests are hard and lots of studying required. I would go into office hours to ask questions and review tests he is very helpful- wish I had started going earlier in the semester. If you put in the effort you will get a good grade.
PLEASE DON'T. Lectures are so boring and don't make any sense. Only 4 tests and each one weighs more than the last and it sucks. Only a few small online quizzes that are made of trick questions. I missed one for being in the hospital and he wouldn't let me make it up. I was lucky I passed. killed my GPA
Very challenging course but if you attend the lectures and take notes, do the readings and quizzes, and study hard before the tests you will do well. He's a really nice guy and quiz to respond to emails or answer questions after class.
Lectures are long and in depth, often went over my head. This course covers very abstract material, but he provides clarification if you ask. He teaches directly out of the two required textbooks.
This class was horrible. Lupher obviously loves philosophy and is very passionate, but the class is so confusing. Way too difficult to be a gen ed. You have to read the textbook over and over to even begin to understand the material. Avoid taking him if you can.
Lupher is very lecture heavy. you need to show up to class because he uses the examples from in class lectures on the test, which aren't in the book. i would advise reading. my first test was based on 6 chapters.
Lots of reading. Lectures aren't great. And tests are extremely hard. Seems like a really nice guy. But this is the hardest class I've ever taken.
hes an amazing professor and is interested in so many aspects of science and philosophy. the problem is how hard he is at grading. he could loosen up i think. but he really is a good guy who loves the work
Lectures feel like they take hours but the tests have specific examples from the lectures so showing up is important. Tests are just multiple choice and not too hard if you skim the book and take decent notes.
I would highly suggest taking this course. You have to go to class or else you won't pass, because he doesn't post lectures to Canvas. But, his tests are fairly easy as long as you show up to class and take good notes. Take advantage of the online quizzes to boost your grade. Does a great job of presenting the material fully and fairly!
This man can turn a 13 slide powerpoint into a 75 minute lecture. Monotone, but wicked smart. Can answer any philosophical question thrown at him with general ease. No phones or computers in class because he'll deduct 5% from your final grade each time he sees it. Quizzes are easy and given for one day on canvas. Tests MC. Easy class but boring.
The class is super interesting and you can tell he cares about the topic, which is why it's good. No, it's not easy. But it's definitely doable. Just show up to class, do the readings. His lectures have a lot of examples and he does want students to do well. Take him for his higher level courses and you won't regret it.
If you question the universe/religion a lot, TAKE HIM. If you don't, you'll hate this class. He's clear, patient, and uses a lot of examples. The easiest way to follow the material is to print the slides beforehand. But, he doesn't put all the slides on canvas as a way to make you come to class more often. The lessons go along w/ the textbook well!
If you read the textbook you get all the info, lectures are very boring.
I really love Prof. Lupher. His class can get boring if you aren't genuinely interested, but if you like to question morals or discuss ethics, TAKE HIM!! Make sure to read the textbooks and take notes in lecture and you will be fine. STUDY FOR TESTS!!!
You will have about three exams and there are extremely difficult for people who do not think in a philosophical way. Quizzes are pretty easy. If you do bad on one exam it is extremely hard to bring your grade back up because he does not have any other assignments other than tests and quizzes.
He is definitely a caring and friendly guy but he just comes off weird at first. I had him for PHIL150 and as long as you go to class and study you'll do well. He always explains everything well and lectures a lot.
Waited until the last day of Philosophy 101 class to spend half the class on a subject that the ENTIRE FINAL IS ON. I've never wanted to die more than after the first five minutes of him talking, the most painful lecture I've ever sat through. AND he strictly teaches from the book, no joke word for word, so there's no point in going to class.
This class could have been so much better if Dr. Lupher engaged his students more. Also, the tests are all multiple choice and I think there should be at least one good essay. I left this class less enthusiastic about philosophy than when I started, although Lupher seems knowledgeable, his class is mostly boring even for intellectual students.
HORRIBLE. worst class I have ever taken. Dr. Lupher gives 3 tests all year and nothing is online. Everything you have to study for the tests is your notes if you can even write everything down and the text book. Nothing makes sense. Pop quizzes. Very unorganized.
He is just not a good teacher. He cannot clearly explain the subject matter or answer questions clearly at all. The test questions rarely make any sense and this class is way too hard for a gen ed.
This gen ed is about as hard as one of my computer science classes. You can't just read, memorize your notes and bs on the test. You have to have good critical thinking skills and apply them to the class material. Don't take this class unless you want a difficult semester. I got an A but it took me 10 times more effort than my Geography gen ed
Dr. Lupher is a nice guy, he tries to answer questions as best as he can but I cannot stress how BORING this class is. He puts none of his slides online so if you don't go to class, good luck. The tests & online quizzes are so hard and you don't even know your grade until the very end of the semester. Hardest gen ed I have taken. Do not recommend.
He is passionate about what he teaches. The lectures are long and there are a lot of notes. If you skip one or 2 classes you will be fine but you need to attend regularly. The tests arent too difficult as long as you are listening to lecture intently. The cell phone policy is absurd and if you check your phone you could lose multiple letter grades
Professor Lupher does a fine job. He gives you all the information you need so just go to class, as he doesn't post any slides online (so you'll go to class). He's open to questions asked in class, whether to clarify or challenge an idea. His lectures aren't super gripping, but he tries to make them fun with little clips and images here and there.
He's a nice guy, but you only have 3 tests and a few quizzes to buffer your grade. The tests were doable but harder than a gen ed should be. He gives one extra credit opportunity, it really helped my grade. Lectures are extremely boring, the class feels like 3 hours. Take notes, study, but I heard any other professor was easier and less boring.
Dr. Lupher is an awesome professor, but his lectures can get boring. There are only three exams and a few quizzes that make up the grade. He pretty much lectures what is in the textbook, but adds a little so showing up is important because it can be the difference of a whole letter grade. He does give good feedback to the class throughout the class
He was just not a good teacher. You have to go to class because he does not share the power points online. Would tip toe around questions without actually answering them. His online quizzes are super easy and he gives one extra credit opportunity. You really have to read Fundamentals of Ethics to understand his concepts. Don't buy the other book!
He likes his papers straight and to the point, with minimal fluff and strict length requirements. If you go to class, take notes, ask for clarification when you need it, and keep your phone in your bag (strict no electronics policy), you'll be fine. Midterm/final were all long answer, and expect to take A LOT of notes.
Dr. Lupher is a great professor! if you pay attention to the lectures they're really interesting. Take detailed notes! Has a strict no electronics policy, so just don't take your electronics out and you'll be fine. I didn't do too well on 2/3 of the tests but I still ended the class with a B+. Quizzes are very easy. Only used the first textbook.
Quizzes decide your grade, yet there is no announcement when they are posted. They are supposedly on what is discussed in class, yet never got full credit on one. Very difficult to get a good grade. Not a great lecturer.
Quizzes are random and never show up on announcements so if you miss a quiz, you're out of luck. Lectures are very dry but they got better throughout the year, excluding the final lecture where he went faster than anybody could write. He doesn't show your grade on canvas so you have to guesstimate what your grade will be.
Don't need to attend class but check Canvas because he randomly assigns 3 question reading quizzes online after class. Use textbook for quizzes - you find answers word for word. Definitely need to read or else you probably won't understand the material or pass.
He knows what he is talking about, but nobody else does. He likes to lecture a lot and often repeats or contradicts himself. Pretty confusing course if you don't pay attention. Lots of reading. Really choose this if you're willing to work hard and are genuinely interested in the subject matter. Easy B/C.
I would not recommend this class. He provided no lecture material and essentially left us to figure out complex philosophical thoughts by ourselves. The material was difficult and we received no guidance. If you enjoy 100% teaching yourself, this class is great. If not, avoid this class and this professor.
It's clear that Dr. Lupher is clearly interested in what he teaches, but sometimes drones on in lecture. The required reading material and his lecture overlap almost exactly so it sometimes became repetitive which made class feel like it wasn't necessary to go. If you read the textbook (8 easy pages a week) and take notes, you'll ace this class.
Lupher seemed bored of teaching this class, which made it nearly unbearable. Not understanding of students, strict with deadlines. More test questions came straight from the textbook than lecture. You'll get by if you like reading/teaching yourself. Way too hard/demanding for a GenEd. Interesting material, bad teacher. Pass if you can.
Take him ASAP! Very easy! Easy tests and quizzes. He is a very nice person as well.
Dr. Lupher isn't that bad, but his class is just so boring and hard to get through. The material is so confusing and he just talks for the whole class. It was online so I could find test answers on quizlet, but if it wasn't for that I would've failed. Tests are worth like 80% of your grade. Wouldn't recommend this class unless its your only option.
Dr. Lupher cares about his subject matter, but that doesn't help the quality of his lectures very much. He goes quite slowly and tends to drone on, and I was always very bored during class since he mainly rehashes textbook material. His tests are fairly easy, but he gives 3 question reading quizzes that can hurt your grade if you get 1 wrong.
"Dr" Tracy Lupher is by far the worst teacher/professor I have ever had to sit and listen to in my entire life. I AM BEGGING YOU, DO NOT EVER TAKE A CLASS BY THIS MAN BECAUSE YOU WILL FAIL AND YOU WILL HATE YOUR LIFE EVERY SECOND YOU ARE IN THAT CLASS AND DOING ANYTHING THAT INVOLVED HIS CLASS.
I was very sick for two weeks and missed a big test and Tracy didn't let me take it so I failed the class. Tracy just reads off the powerpoint, so it's a very boring long class.
Dr. Lupher clearly likes his subject matter, but that doesn't help the quality of his lectures very much. He goes quite slowly, reads off the powerpoint, and basically reviews textbook material. His first test was easy, the second one we all bombed. He gives 3 question reading quizzes that can hurt your grade if you get 1 wrong. He's not the worst
Honestly this was the worst class and professor I had this year. He starts off the first class with explaining how strict he is and has little remorse for students making mistakes. His lectures online are tough to listen to because he just reads slides and says "um" every sentence. I had trouble because he allows zero make ups for any tests/quizzes
Dr. Lupher is a good teacher with a few flaws. He's very knowledgeable -- I enjoyed his lectures. But they were unbearable if you didn't love the subject. He took a belligerent posture on electronic devices, forbidding even notetaking on laptops. Quizzes were given with little notice. A good and interesting class, but not an easy A elective.
Easy A for online-takers.
Lupher is clearly knowledgeable, but this class isn't an easy A. The lectures don't match what is on the tests at all, they do reflect the quizzes, sometimes. He gives 3 questions quizzes, which wreck your grade when you get 2/3's on them all. His grading system is confusing and he locks grades during the last week so you can't calculate your grade
I took an upper level philosophy class with him (philosophy of physics). The contents of the class was very complicated material and Lupher was able to make the class bearable. The class really interested me so I had no problem listening to his bland lectures every class. Doesn't take attendance, final grade depended on 2 exams, a final, a paper
Professor Lupher has no tolerance for students who don't come to class-- even if it's only once. Quizzes aren't on Canvas for longer than a day, so if you miss a day and aren't able to check Canvas, you're out of luck. The textbook isn't a requirement per se, but if you need translation of his bland lectures riddled with ums and buts, it's a must
Hes a terrible professor and hard exams pick anyone but him for your own sake
I took Phil 101 with him and regret it so much. His lectures are so boring and he is horrible about communication. There are quizzes that are open for 24 hours so if you miss a class you'll probably miss the quiz then everything else you're graded on are 3 tests. PLEASE do not take
He just seemed bored teaching. I had the class at 5:30pm so that didn't help. The material was dense and confusing. I only took it for my BA requirements and I would not take it again.
He clearly knows his stuff but it's not conveyed very well. I'm sure he thinks his explanations make sense but a lot of the time I'm lost. He doesn't allow technology and there's no excuses for missing anything ever.
boring, bad at lecturing, very difficult class with few grades. he is definitely knowledgeable about the topic (quantum theory) but his explanations don't make a lot of sense and are confusing. don't take
This is NOT a philosophy class. It is a quantum mechanics class. Very math heavy and there's a lot of reading. Lectures are very hard to follow and powerpoint based, but he's an easy grader. Get above a 50 on the exam and you'll be ok (he curves). He's probably the smartest person I've ever met and should be at MIT or something. Really cool guy.
This professor is AWFUL. He started testing on things like quantum physics and on 1 of the exams, we were tested on time machines. This class is hard enough to stay awake in and he thinks because he has multiple PhDs he can rant about anything. Would NOT recommend it. Save yourself the headache.
this class is called philosophy of quantum theory but this is NOT a philosophy class as another review said. It is disguised as one but it's fully a quantum mechanics class. material is cool but wildly confusing and his lectures are terrible. i had some background in quantum mechanics but he managed to ruin my interest in it, do not take
Actually horrible. Tests make absolutely no sense and will have topics you covered once for 30 seconds in class be 4-5 questions on a test. Insanely boring, my friend and I constantly are falling asleep. I have to drink a redbull everytime I go into class. Do not take this class unless you hate yourself and/or it's required for your major.
Please never ever take this class.I have gotten 0 help when contacting him.Your grade is based so heavily on tests that do not make sense or demonstrate your knowledge of the course, and 3 QUESTION QUIZZES that if you get a 2/3 you're screwed. All you can do is "read your notes" to study, but each unit there is 30 pages of notes. Worst class ever.
You have to take notes and you get graded by 3 tests and a few pop quizzes but overall, I think he's a fair professor and cares about answering questions during lectures.
Dr. Tracy Lupher, what a guy. I would never take this class again unless there was a gun against my head. There's only 3 exams which make up most off your grade. The lectures suck and make no sense at all. I always left more confused than when I walked in. This class ruined my love for philosophy, please don't take it, for your own will.
I am surprised that this professor has a low rating. Sure, there is only 3 exams and 5 quizzes, but if you pay attention, do the assigned readings, and make quizlets, you shouldn't have a problem. He also gave out extra credit on two separate occasions. My only gripe is that the lectures can get a little stale towards the end of the semester.
This guy is the single worst teacher that I have ever had in my whole life. I would rather read the great Gatsby 70 times in one week then sit through one of his lectures.
Phil 150 is very content heavy. Dr. Lupher made it very boring as philosophy is already a boring subject. He read off of PowerPoints and graded only by test and quizzes. The quizzes were easy but the test were very difficult. Overall I would not take this class again if someone paid me.
I somehow managed to get a good grade in this class, but it was so hard especially for a gen ed. Most of the lectures put me to sleep and the only grades were quizzes and tests.
This class was extremely lecture heavy, but I found all the lectures to be very interesting. Professor Lupher is clearly passionate about this subject which made the lectures more interesting. The class is graded only on exams and quizzes, so going to class is very important. Strict on technology use in class but it was actually helpful for focus.
most boring and unimportant class ive ever taken. prof talks like he is blessing us with the most life changing knowledge when its literally phil 101. he is smug and has an attitude and frankly just loves the sound of his own voice. tests are rly hard on the most boring material. (is it true that 2+2=4? why?). avoid taking at all costs.
Lectures are extremely boring and useless
He gives out pop-quizzes where one wrong answer drops your grade immensely. He forgets he is teaching a 101 class, saying that he doesn't "do that at this level" when the class asks for help reviewing, study guides/tips, or anything to consolidate the excess of information for the heavily weighted exams. Monotone with a superiority complex.
This class was incredibly difficult for a Gen Ed. Lupher is a very nice and personable professor but his class was unbearable, he does long boring lectures. Attendence isn't mandatory but don't let that fool you. His only grades besides tests are 3 question pop quizzes that make or break your grade.
all of ur grade is based on 3 tests that are weighted more as u go and whenever he randomly decides to do a quiz in lecture. He's a very nice man but i think he just loves talking abt Phil so much he doesn't know when to stop and talk with his students. very hard gen ed
Overall good professor, very lecture heavy and follows exactly what's in the textbook. Class is not mandatory and if you read the textbook, you will be all set for the tests. The lectures are very boring, and he gives pop quizzes that affect your grade a ton.
Dr Lupher is nice and clearly passionate about the philosophy of space and it shows during the lectures. The class is manageable but there is a lot covered every class and he usually goes a few minutes over. If you like space or need the class definitely take it. The tests are hard but he curves so as long as you do the homework you'll pass.
Professor Lupher's lectures can be a bit dry, but if you stay engaged and utilize study tools like Unstuckstudy, you can ace the heavily weighted exams. Attendance is a must, but the textbook isn't always essential.
talks alot, he is passionate about it but i couldnt care less about the subject. popquizzes in class and if missed, NO MATTER WHAT, NO makeups.
-3 tests thats all that you get graded on. I did poorly on the tests, which are confusing, and I failed the class! He's nice, but don't take his class unless you'd like to be bored, then overwork yourself for complex tests . If you can't fit anyone else into your schedule, MEET WITH HIM FOR OFFICE HOURS to review for the tests.
Do not take this class. I have never done so poorly in a class before and he is no help at all. So boring and useless. Tests are unbelievably hard and he gives pop quizzes with no makeup opportunities. I missed class two times because I was sick and I missed the pop quizzes which tanked my grade. He is insufferable.
There is no reason this class (symbolic logic) should be this difficult yet this professor has seemingly found a way and in doing so, has made my life helll. He is a deplorable professor and I would not recommend taking this class to anyone with an ounce of intelligence, save yourself the time— you won't get an A, maybe a B if you're lucky. 0/5
DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!! Absolutely not useful, beyond boring lectures, only grades in class are quizzes and tests, mainly pop quizzes which can't be made up - a very nice guy who is very passionated, but it is not worth the struggle at all!!!!
His class was so difficult for no reason. He only announces quizzes in class, and you take them in class the same day. He has no assignments besides quizzes and tests. harsh grading, no extra cridit opportunities. only has online office hours. overall he was just very unhelpful.
Trust me whatever you do don't take his class. He literally gives you pop quizzes out the blue when he swore he would tell us at the beginning of class, he decided out the blue we were taking a pop quiz because a student asked if we were gonna be tested/quizzed on it. It's such a bore in his class. Wouldn't wish this class on my worst enemy.
Do not take this class. This class is so incredibly boring and repetitive. He has pop quizzes like every week, and words the questions so it's almost like you're set up to fail. This class has potential to be interesting and easy but he makes it the opposite, spare yourself and avoid enrolling in his class.
He never lets you know about quizzes in advance, matter of fact the guy gave a pop quiz the day after a test. On top of that, he makes it hard to succeed, as if he's praying on your downfall. When you look at quiz questions it always looks like multiple answers could be right. If you care abt ur grade don't take this dude.
ONLY GRADES ARE EXAMS AND POP QUIZES, taken in-class ONLY. Don't recommend. You can tell he loves philosophy, but I leave the class each day wanting to take my brain out and dip it in ice-cold water and put it back in. Don't recommend unless you truly love philosophy. Super hard gen ed.
Horrible teacher will do pop quizzes when there's not a lot of people in class and the quiz's will be only 4 questions so even if you get 1 wrong it very negatively affects your grade.
gives pop quizes at the end of class when he knows a bunch of people skipped that drop ur grade so bad. got an 88 on the test and still had a c- because of the quizes. it's impossible to pass unless ur a loser who studies 24/7. hes the slowest talker on earth his voice is so irritating his lectures should be consider torture. horrible teacher
Has so many degrees that he is out of touch with his students. Not helpful. All he says is make flash cards. He is monotone and says everything like it's his personal belief & gives more examples than definitions. Grade is solely based on pop quizzes and tests which progressively gain percentage of your total grade. Feels like a waste of time.
Very boring and confusing content that is taught, but if you show up and take notes you will be ok. Random pop quizzes worth 4 points are given in his lectures so you should try to show up. He will give free bonus points too though. He is a good guy but Phil 150 is just a mind-numbingly boring course. If you take notes you'll be fine.
DO NOTTTTTTTTTTTT TAKE THIS CLASS!!! Absolutely not useful, beyond boring lectures, only grades in class are quizzes and tests, none are dropped, mainly pop quizzes which can't be made up and are 20% every single time - a guy who is very passionated but has and attitude no doubt, it is NOTTTTTT worth the struggle at all!!!!
Passionate about what he teaches but lectures are SO boring and monotone. Posts slides but w/ missing info, you kinda have to show up to get the full notes even tho class isn't mandatory. Also has pop quizzes 4 pts each which can drop your grade even if he drops your lowest one. Course is difficult and rots your brain, wouldn't recommend for gen ed
He has the longest and most boring lectures, which make no sense. His only grades are timed pop quizzes in class and 3 tests that, no matter how much you study, you'll probably fail. Also, he doesn't care about his students. My one friend's lockdown wouldn't work, and she only had 40 seconds to take the pop quiz and he told her that he didn't care.
If you're taking him to fulfill your Madison Foundation as a first year DO NOT!!!!!!! I would quite literally rather bang my head into a wall repeatedly then ever have to take his class again. There are only 3 question long pop quizzes that tank your grade and tests. Avoid him
He is not understanding to situations and has frequent pop quizzes
made me want to rip my brains out and only has exams for your grade... that is it
Worst teacher i've ever had, he doesn't care that all of his students are failing and your only grade is 4 test (including the final)
DO NOT TAKE. Worst professor i've had he could care less about his students and his test do not match his terrible lectures.
DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!! I attended every class and am still failing. Your grade only consists of pop quizzes and 3 exams all of which are ridiculously hard. He does NOT do make ups on the pop quizzes even if your hospitalized, and if you do bad on 1 exam, or 2 quizzes you might as well drop the class because theres no way your passing.
Tracy's an interesting professor, he would be talking about the most boring subject ever and you'd be losing sleep during it, but then he would bring up the most repulsive example of it to wake everyone. If it wasn't a gen-ed it'd be considered an easier course, but because it is one, people rate him poorly because of his structure of coursework.
If you read the textbook thoroughly(spend maybe an hour a week reading) the quizzes are incredibly easy. The tests are cumulative and he curves pretty well. For a gen ed(as a freshman) this is my hardest class. Would recommend taking a different one for an easier time, but not the end of the world if you have him.
I signed up for philosophy as a gen ed, and it was so hard for absolutely no reason. My worst grade and ended up dropping. No attendance but grades off of 3 question pop quizzes, if you are absent during one it's a zero. He is very passionate about philosophy, but his lectures are boring and longwinded. Tests are hard. Do not recommend.
This is literally a gen ed and should not be this deep. All your grades are composed of quizzes and tests, his lectures are so boring that I would gladly rather work on chemistry homework, and he keeps you 20 minutes after the class is supposed to end. You walk in during the day and walk out during the night. Anyways, don't take this class :(
His lectures can be pretty boring, but he pretty much covers all the information based on the weekly readings. The concepts are hard to grasp, but if you study, you will be okay. The pop quizzes suck, but the lowest one is dropped at the end of the semester. He also gives extra credit opportunities if you consistently attend class.
He does NOT respond to emails. Doesnt care if you have technical difficulties with quizzes, he will just give you a zero no matter what. #awful #donttakehisclass #hewillghostyouremails
Extremely unhelpful! If you are having any sort of issue with literally anything in your life and have to miss more than 1 class, you will have an extreme amount of trouble making up your grade because he will not let you retake any pop quiz or exam no matter what! Overall, very poor experience, do not take!
Such an average prof. Pop quizzes that will bomb ur grade if you fail them, lectures are long and boring. He is not an engaging person. I think he likes the sound of his own voice. His exams aren't bad as long as you study, but they are also worth a huge chunk of ur grade. Your only grades are quizzes and exams, so just study.
This professor has no compassion and he considers his pop quizzes to be very important and have high value towards your final grade yet doesn't do anything to compromise. I would never take this teacher again and has ruined taking this class again as well
Class is so incredibly difficult for no reason. I took it as a gen ed, and it is the hardest class I have had and I am a nursing major. Zero compassion or care for his students, tests are incredibly hard, and grades on random pop quizzes he loves to give the day before break cause he knows students will be traveling, and he likes them to fail.
His lectures are extremely boring and monotone so if you don't respond well to that kind of teaching be prepared to do a lot of reading and notetaking outside of class on top of anything you can manage to get done during class time without falling asleep. On a positive note, he is VERY generous with extra credit points so take advantage of that.
Omg. Horrible avoid him if you can. Pop quizzes frequently with only 4 questions so it basically tanks your grade. Exams were pretty difficult as well. Lectures were super boring so have fun with that. I heard some of my friends had it way easier with their philosophy professors.. don't take him for a gen ed!
His lectures were really boring. Attendance wasn't mandatory but had a few random pop quizzes, as well as the majority of slides he lectured on were NOT posted in Canvas. Grade breakdown was 75% tests, 25% pop quizzes so not a lot of opportunities to get your grade up. One plus: the content talked about/in the textbook was verbatim on the exams!!
Dr. Lupher's class was a bit difficult. The class was graded by few things, and there are sometimes pop quizzes right after a lecture and they can't be made up. However, he does curve exams and drops your lowest graded quiz. If you have him for PHIL 150, I would recommend reading the textbook before class and making flashcards after every lecture.
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
37%
Textbook Required
53%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B-
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5.0
(1)PHIL397
5.0
(2)PHIL410
3.5
(2)GPHIL120
2.9
(36)GPHIL150
2.6
(27)Difficulty by Course
PHIL120
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5.0
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