The Write-on-Slides Method of Notetaking
Discussed in this blog post :
What is the Write-on-Slides Method
The Write-on-Slides Method offers a quick and straightforward approach, particularly suitable for those who prefer not to invest extensive time in detailed notetaking.
Often teaching materials come in the form of slideshows, PowerPoint slides and classroom handouts. The write-on-slides method involves taking notes directly onto these materials provided by your lecturer.
Whether electronically or by printing out the slides, the Write-on-Slides Method streamlines the notetaking process, offering a dynamic way to engage with educational content.
Its versatility of this method allows users to adapt notetaking to their preferences and striking a balance between digital and physical notetaking.
The Write-on-Slides Method format
The Write-on-Slides Method is a practical solution for efficient notetaking.
Embracing both the advantages and adaptability of this method, people can tailor the method to align with their preferred notetaking approach whether that is physical or digital The Sentence Method of notetaking is most effective in situations where:notetaking.
Using this method you can:
Explore various digital annotation tools to enhance your electronic note-taking experience, experimenting with features like highlighting, underlining, and drawing for interactive engagement.
Print out slides to combine handwritten annotations with the convenience of digital materials.
Explore the synergies between the Write-on-Slides Method and complementary notetaking techniques, creating a personalized approach.
How to use the Write-on-Slides Method
The Write-on-Slides Method offers a dynamic approach to notetaking, providing flexibility for both printed and digital formats.
There are two distinct ways to implement this method: whether you choose to make your notes on printed or electronic formats there are three steps to follow:
Step 1: Prepare in Advance:
Download the slides from the eLearning Portal
For PRINT: Print the slides to get a physical copy to take to class.
For DIGITAL: Import the slides into your preferred notetaking format, eg. OneNote, Notability, GoodNotes
Step 2: Take Slides to Class
Ensure you have the physical or digital copy of the slides and handouts with you in class.
Step 3: Make Notes:
Pay attention in class and make notes on the slides and in the margin
Concentrate on details which supplement the information on the slides
Make a note of any questions that arise
Consider combining the Write-on-Slides Method with other notetaking techniques.
When to use the Write-on-Slides Method
By using the Write-on-Slides method in the classroom and during presentations students can focus their energy on actively participate in the learning process.
The Write-on-Slides Method of notetaking is effective in situations where:
Digital Classes and Presentations: In online or digital classes where presentations are shared electronically, using the Write-on-Slides Method allows students to actively engage with the material in real-time.
Lecture-Based Courses: During lecture-based courses where instructors use slideshows, students can use this method to annotate and reinforce key concepts as they are presented.
Reviewing Recorded Lectures: For students reviewing recorded lectures, the Write-on-Slides Method can be applied retrospectively to capture additional insights or clarify points that may have been missed during the live session.
In-Class Discussions: During in-class discussions where slides are used to facilitate conversations, students can use this method to capture key points, questions, and contributions.
Quick Reference and Recap: As a quick reference tool, the Write-on-Slides Method allows students to recap information efficiently, especially when time is limited, and a brief overview is needed.
Benefits of using the Write-on-Slides Method
The Write-on-Slides Method is simple and quick and there are several advantages:
Increased Focus: As you have the class materials in front of you it allows you to pay more attention to the lecturer.
Save time: This is a time-efficient notetaking method minimizing the need for extensive writing.
Flexible Format: Can be combined with other notetaking approaches as were as bullet points, symbols and abbreviations to take faster notes.
Drawbacks of using the Write-on-Slides Method
While the Write-on-Slides Method has its benefits, it also comes with certain disadvantages::
Fail to Engage: there is a risk you will listen without engaging and processing the material
Typing versus Writing: Processing information while typing is slower than when you write on paper. According to researchers, writing activates parts of the brain that typing doesn't.
Format failure: if you forget your laptop or physical copy you won’t have access to your prepared materials.
Improve your Write-on-Slides Method notetaking
When using the Write-on-Slides Method, optimizing your approach can significantly enhance its effectiveness, here are some suggestions to help you improve your notetaking:
Avoid the temptation to transcribe verbatim, your notes should summarise and paraphrase the taught material in your own words.
Focus on Main Points and avoid unnecessary details that duplicates information provided on the slides.
While the teacher is lecturing, maintain active focus. Instructors often emphasize critical topics through specific references on slides or changes in tone.
Write in clear and concise language, using your own words to convey the information effectively.
Prepare for the upcoming lesson the day before allows you to formulate questions, jot down remarks, and create a space for swift answers during the actual class.
Incorporate keywords or phrases that stand out for quick reference.
Consider using colours, bolding, or formatting to enhance visual clarity.
Review your notes at the end of the session to ensure they make sense and you have captured the information correctly
Summary
The Write-on-Slides Method provides a simple and adaptable approach to notetaking, catering to diverse preferences and seamlessly blending digital and physical formats.
The Write-on-Slides Method is a pragmatic solution for efficient notetaking, presenting users with the flexibility to align it with their preferred approach—be it physical or digital.
The Write-on-Slides Method is effective in classroom lectures and discussions making it a useful method for students aiming to actively participate in the learning process. This method is beneficial in digital classes, lecture-based courses, reviewing recorded lectures and in-class discussions.
The Write-on-Slides Method of notetaking is regarded as one of the quickest methods. By integrating this method with other proven techniques, students can create a personalized notetaking strategy that fosters comprehension, engagement, and efficient study habits.
The Write-on-Slides Method is a great option for maximising your notetaking options in lectures but it might not be right for you in all situations. To find out about other notetaking methods check out 12 Notetaking Methods Essential for Students for some of the most effective options for students.
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