Paw Print Writer: Riley Benavidez
Starting a new semester, teachers advise students that taking notes with pen and paper is more effective than using technology. The argument for the traditional route forces the student to actively select notes since writing takes more time and effort to record. However, the argument for technology is mainly that typing as opposed to writing is quicker and it’s easier to copy nearly every word of the lecture and proofread easily. This speed comes at a cost because less is tactically reinforced cognitively. Which is better? Unfortunately the answer: depends on the student. And it also depends on how the student studies and the duration and a million other things. Simply put, different people are different types of learners. Students will use what is most comfortable to them despite fair arguments from the other side. The handwriting/ traditional approach is best for students who are visual and kinesthetic learners, or students who get easily distracted. Traditional note-taking methods may also be more effective in different types of classes. Classes outside a student’s comfort zone may benefit from traditionally writing out notes to digest difficult material. Mathematics, Sciences, and Creative Writing classes tend to also be more effective for handwriting because handwriting notes can become creative visual aids-where mind maps and diagrams are often used. Typing is best for students who are in traditional lectures, such as gen-eds. Students who are auditory learners can benefit from technology note-taking methods- such as recording classes or typing notes to later become a pod-cast style. While studies have shown that typing isn’t the most effective learning method, it can be a tool used for studying later on. With typing, it is easy to revise notes and reorganize. Also, another advantage of using technology during note-taking is to easily add additional notes from outside sources to aid in studying. Most teachers dislike typing notes out, and some have a technology aversion. Some don’t care. But for the ones that do- there are a few options if you gravitate toward technology. Tablet with a stylus- as this has the benefits of both. Computer with intention of using airplane mode. Ask if you can record the class via a recording device. Sometimes a teacher bans any technology during class and there’s not much technology lovers can do. Thankfully outside the classroom, students are free to do whatever helps them study best. Using technology to your advantage. Create podcasts from word-to-speech from typed notes. Create google-docs that are shareable/editable to other classmates for collaborative studying. For traditional note-takers, get creative with colors, highlighters, and diagrams. Use personalized language to help cement new concepts. Taking notes in a notebook can be viewed anywhere-despite wi-fi zones. A general tip for note-taking, regardless of whether it’s traditional or technology, is to prioritize your notes:
For Lectures (Gen-EDs, Humanities, Nursing):
Concepts- most important to truly understand
Facts- this is through data, graphs, numbers, etc.
Vocabulary
For applied classes (STEM, Studio Arts, Athletics, Nursing)
1. Concepts 2. Practice (laboratory, tutoring, studio time, practice sessions)
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