By Lauren Nichole Barrera
Incoming freshman may underestimate the importance of good note-taking.
“I believe that proper note-taking is the bridge between the text and the instructor,” student development Counselor Dehlia Wallis said.
Wallis helps build students’ note-taking skills by taking a sample of their notes from classes and going over easier ways to write them.
Different techniques are used on a daily basis to help students better understand what is being taught.
Wallis teaches effective note-taking strategies such as reading the text in advance and staying organized.
When listening to lectures, students should understand the importance of verbal and nonverbal communication.
If an instructor is animated, look for hand gestures and changes in tone of voice that symbolize something important.
Wallis also teaches students how to edit their notes after a lecture and ask the instructor any questions they have.
Common problems Wallis has found solutions for include sitting in front of the room to stay focused and interested
Creating a form of shorthand when taking notes will keeps students from losing their concentration when listening to instructors’ lectures.
Note-taking skills are essential for a promising college career and apply after college in any career field.
If everything seems important, try to identify key concepts in the text or in the lecture.
“It’s a skill that once they master will help the overall success of the student,” Wallis said.