This document discusses different note taking strategies and methods. It outlines the pros and cons of various approaches like linear notes, mind mapping, Cornell method and outlining. Mind mapping is emphasized as it uses both sides of the brain and allows information to be condensed in a very visual way. The document provides tips for effective note taking in lectures and from readings. It encourages actively listening and reviewing material to aid comprehension.

1. Note taking strategiesOrna.Farrell@dbs.ie

2. Discussion questionsIs taking notes important?What method do you use?When do you take notes?

3. Why take notes?To note down factsTo contrast similarities and differencesTo summarise main pointsTo help pay attentionTo review and reviseTo record thoughts & brainstorm

4. Types of note takingProse/linearMany students use this format basically written paragraphsWhile this type can provide a summary the disadvantages are that it encourages verbatim copying doesn't allow for organisational strategy use

5. Types of note takingMind mapping/spider diagramsThe notes start in the middle of a page and 'explode' out towards the edge of the page. The advantage is that it is very visual, allows for structure and displays relationships. They are very useful for review and recall, brainstorming and revision purposes. Another advantage is that a lot of information can be condensedDisadvantages include they are hard to produce, especially from lectures and they require practice

6. Why mind map?Using words, numbers and sentences only uses one side of your brain: the leftYour right brain responds to colours, shapes and soundMind mapping uses both left and right brain skillsInterview with Tony Buzan

7. Making a mind mapSpicy nodeswww.spicynodes.orgChoose a topicThe floodsClimate ChangeX factorThe Ryan report on child abuseDublin Business School Spend five minutes creating a mind map

8. Types of note takingCornell MethodThis method involves drawing a line down the page, about 1/3 from left side of page. The right side is used to record notes. The left side is reserved for key words and main points. These can be done after the lecture, when trying to condense the information. The advantage of this method is that it forces the note taker to select main points;

9. Types of note takingOutlineThe advantage of this method is that it is more visual and allows for the structure.It forces the note taker to create main points. A disadvantage is that sometimes the material is not conducive or provided in such a format that lends itself to outlining

10. Taking Notes in LecturesTaking notes in lectures involves being an active listenerFocus on the content not the speakerReview previous notes for better continuity & comprehensionListen for key wordsSpend a few minutes discussing the lecture at the end

11. Taking Notes from readingsThe SQRNR Reading MethodSurvey the text Question: make questions about the textRead & underline key wordsMake notesRevise

12. Further readingwww.spicynodes.orgBuzan, T. (2002) How to mind map. London: Thorsons.http://www.buzanworld.com/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlabrWv25qQ