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Collaborative learning techniques, such as Think/Pair/Share and Jigsaw, can help students grasp key concepts and ensure that notes are complete. K-12 teachers might consider having a designated note-taker in each of their classes for the benefit of anyone who needs notes because of an absence or a disability. Upon request, most colleges provide note-taking services for students with documented disabilities. Recordings are also time-consuming to review and not useful for a person with a hearing impairment. For these reasons, it is better if the student can take some notes for herself.Īudio recording is the most accurate and complete way to capture class information, except in situations where the lecture format is highly visual, as it might be in math or science classes (math problems on the board or demonstrations in science). These notes are also the writer's interpretation of the lecture, which may not match what the student needs to help her remember key concepts. While these methods are easy to use, the legibility or clarity of the notes may limit their usefulness. For some students, it is helpful to refer to these notes during the lecture.Ĭopies of notes, from a designated note-taker or volunteer from the class, can be written on NCR (no carbon required) paper, photocopied or shared electronically. This allows the student to concentrate on the information given and participate in discussions. Teachers could then provide outlines electronically.Īn instructor can provide their lecture notes to a student prior to the lecture. Students should consider using a laptop computer and note-taking software for note-taking.
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Guided notes encourage student participation during class and minimize the amount of writing required to keep up with the information being presented. Copies of presentation overheads might also serve as guides for note-taking.
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Guided notes are outlines, provided by the instructor, with spaces or blanks that the student can fill in during the lecture. Copies of notes by a designated note taker.
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Common ways to provide note-taking accommodations include the following: A note-taking accommodation is intended to provide information that the student would have gotten on his own, if it were not for his disability. Physical and hearing impairments may also limit speed and make note-taking difficult.
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For example, a student with an auditory processing problem may take few or unclear notes. Some students with disabilities have difficulty taking notes.
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