TAKING LECTURE MOTES (I)

Note-Taking Strategies

Why we have to take lecture notes?

THE REASONS:

1.Promotes active listening;

- It helps you concentrate on the lecture. It will become a real problem if you daydream so much that you miss a lot of the information in class. But when you are taking notes, you can improve your concentration because you're focusing your attention to the lectures. You can generate a high level of involvement in your own learning by taking notes.

2.Provides an accurate record of information

- The most important reason for taking notes in college is to get an accurate record of the information that was presented in class. Taking notes can actually help you learn and remember the information. In many classes the majority of the exam questions come from the lecture material. Without a good set of notes, you won't be able to prepare for the exam.

3.Provides an opportunity to interpret, condense and organize information

- Taking lecture notes forces you to interpret, condense, and organize the information the information that's presented. You have to condense the information, you have to think about each sentence and putting the information into your own words. As you write down information in a condensed form, you also are forced to create a system of organization that separates the main and supporting points. You can structure the information your own way. These processes can help you understand and learn the information during the lecture. Please remember that the more organized the information is, the easier it is to learn and remember.

4.Provides an opportunity for repetition of the material

- By writing down the important information, you are reviewing it several times. In this way, you get more repetition on each point and that is something that may not occur were you simply listening to the lecture and when you review your notes again, you will get even more repetition.

Taking effective lecture notes is a skill that can enhance your learning. Here's some suggestions that you can try it:

Preparation Before the Lecture Start

1. Review the Material in Advance

- Skim through the assigned readings or lecture slides beforehand. This primes your brain for key concepts.

2. Choose the Right Tools

- Decide between digital tools (e.g., a Ipad or a laptop with apps like Notion) or pen and paper. Ensure they're organized and accessible.

3. Prepare Your Template

- Divide your page or note file into sections (e.g., key points, examples, questions, and follow-ups). Cornell notes or mind maps are good structures.