CHAPTER 6 : TAKING LECTURE NOTES

TAKING LECTURE NOTES - PART 1

FOCUSES:

   1) Why take lecture notes ?

• Active learning.
• Accurate record of information.
• To interpret, condense and organize information.
• For repetition of material

   
    2) How to take lecture notes ?

•  Prepare before taking notes.

            *To read the text before class.
            *By reading the text will allow us to :
                      1. Build up the background about the topic.
                      2. Identify main idea of the lecture and organize note                                                                                 easier.
                      3. Be familiar with the key terms related to the topic.
            *Get ready to take notes as walk into the classroom :
                      1. Sitting in front of classroom will allow and hear better.
                      2. Probably to find other interested motivated friends sit in the first few rows of the                               class.
                      3. Review the notes took during the last class while waiting for class begin.

• Become active listener. 

            *Read before the lecture.
            *Review last set of notes.
            *Decide what to listen
            *Focus attention physically and mentally.
            *Listen for the main point & related details and take notes.
            *Listen with an open mind .
            *Control emotional responses.
            *Ask and answer question.
            *Monitor listening by checking with lecturer and classmate if unsure of some information.

• The Cornell note taking method.

EFFECTIVE NOTE TAKING SYSTEM - PART 2.


   3) What to include in notes ?

• Item :

          *Heading ; - always note the main points that are made during lecture.
          *Details ;   - any facts & explanations that explain the main points mentioned.
                            - definitions word for word if lecturer repeats them several times.
                            - examples related to general headings.
                            - anything that is repeated & spelled out.
                            - enumerations & lists of things that are discussed.
          *Discussion
            classes        ; - some lectures prefer the discussion format when teaching.
                                 - can easily take notes on a discussion by writing the main question                                                          passed.
                                 - the jot down the various points that are made during the discussion.
          *Mathematics &
            Science classes ; - taking notes in mathematics & sciences require.
          *Power point
            presentation ; - copy the headings & subheading into your notes.
                                   - listen to what the lecturer says about the slide & take notes.

   4) Reviewing notes.

         *Recite from the headings:
             - you can review to prompt memory.
             - check notes to wether you missed anything.
             - this method helps you learn the material in an integrated way.
             - cover the information under each heading.
         *Recite from the recalls:
             - this review method helps you learn the material in an isolated way.
             - you learn specific answers to specific questions.
             - use the recall questions to test your memory of the main points and                                                      supporting details.
         *Talk about the information
            with others                        :
             - another way to study is to talk about it.
             - get together with your friends to review your notes.
             - you can also teach the material to someone.
             - putting the information in your own words & explaining it to                                                               others to move it into long term memory.