Methods:
are systematic approaches used to record and organize information, helping individuals remember and understand key points during lectures, reading, or discussions.
Understanding Methods!
Why are there so many methods?
There are several note-taking methods and styles, all which can be used for particular learning environments.
How can I identify which method to use?
After today, we will be able to easily identify which method to use that is tailored to our learning environment.
Why is choosing the right method important?
Choosing a particular method can make a big difference on whether your notes will be effective or not.
How will I retain this information?
If you’d like, I set up a quiz at the bottom of the page and the right-hand site of the website to test out your new skills.
Let’s see what methods we can use!
Outline Method: A structured technique that involves organizing information in a hierarchical format.
Key Components:
Main Topics: Written as top-level entries.
Supporting Ideas: Listed beneath the corresponding main concepts.
How this works:
This method presents relationships between your notes, showing us how each different piece of information connects with one another.
List Method: A method that involves recording information as a sequential list of ideas as they are presented.
Key Components:
Short Phrases: Short phrases can allow you to elaborate later on.
Versatility: Can be used in combination with other strategies.
How this works:
This method provides users with a flexible way to write notes in a fast-paced environment that may lack a clear hierarchy.
The Cornell Method: a note-taking system that organizes notes into three sections.
Key Components/How it works:
Notes Column: wide column on right hand portion of page, used for main notes.
Cue Column: narrow column on left hand portion of page, jotting down main ideas, keywords, questions, etc…
Summary Column: Row that covers lower portion of page, summarizes content in own words.
How this works: Structured approach helps with active recall, and extensive review scenarios.
Concept Map: Method that involves drawing a diagram that visually organizes information.
Key Components:
Main Topic: Circled at the center of map.
Related Ideas: Rectangles branched out from main topic containing supporting ideas.
How this works: Effectively show relationships and hierarchies between ideas.
Charting Method: A visual strategy that involves creating a table/chart to organize information.
Key Components:
Column 1: Mainly used to label categories related to topic.
Row 1: Can further elaborate on categories related to topic.
How this works: Determine categories prior, record notes within specific cells.
Guided Note-taking: Handouts that outline the lecture content with blank spots to elaborate on key concepts.
Key Components:
Main Elements: Provides individual with key points, a crucial part to notes.
Blank Area. Give’s individual space to write notes related to main elements.
How this works: Outline highlighted key elements early on, allows for easier notetaking.
Identify Which Method to Use!
Suitability:
There are several note-taking methods and styles, all which can be used for particular learning environments.
How can I identify which method to use?
After today, we will be able to easily identify which method to use that is tailored to our learning environment.
Why is choosing the right method important?
Choosing a particular method can make a big difference on whether your notes will be effective or not.
How will I retain this information?
If you’d like, I set up a quiz at the bottom of the page and the right-hand site of the website to test out your new skills.
A Deeper Dive Into Methods (Header)
Outline Method: A structured technique that involves organizing information in a hierarchical format.
Advantages:
Organized Structure
Promotes Understanding
Adaptability
Disadvantages:
Time Consuming
Requires Concentration
Hierarchy Anxiety
List Method: A method that involves recording information as a sequential list of ideas as they are presented.
Advantages:
Simplicity
Flexible Structure
Visual Clarity
Disadvantages:
Excessive Writing
Lack of Hierarchy
Limited Information Processing
The Cornell Method: a note-taking system that organizes notes into three sections. Useful in lecture setting.
Advantages:
Organized Structure
Facilitates Review
Efficient
Disadvantages:
Time Consuming
Requires Discipline
Lack of Flexibility
Concept Map: Method that involves drawing a diagram that visually organizes information.
Advantages:
Creative Engagement
Flexible Structure
Visual Learning
Disadvantages:
Time Consuming
Challenging for Complex Topics
Requires Space
Charting Method: A visual strategy that involves creating a table/chart to organize information.
Advantages:
Visual
Works well w/ Compare & Contrast
Organized
Disadvantages:
Not Suited for Fast-paced Lectures
Prior Knowledge Needed
Limitation on Detail
Guided Note-taking: Handouts that outline the lecture content with blank spots to elaborate on key concepts.
Advantages:
Active Learning
Reduced Overload
Clear View of Topics
Disadvantages:
Passive Learning
Limited Flexibility
Slow-paced Lecture Recommended