As a teacher, there's nothing more gratifying than when your students “get it.” You can sense neurons working and the concepts beginning to click and see the light of recognition in their eyes. You help to pass on information in a way that allows students to absorb and digest it.But what about when your students don't get it? When looks of bewilderment cloud their faces, assessment outcomes are low, and despite hours spent trying to explain the same concept, they just don't seem to understand.Sometimes, the root of this problem starts with note-taking. Depending on the age level of your students, some are just beginning to learn to take notes, while others in high school and college have already done so in most of their classes. If you teach older students, you may assume that this is a skill your students already possess as so many tools are available for organization of their learning process. However, you'd be surprised by how many of them haven't a clue how to take good class notes. Spending a lesson on note-taking may boost overall learning, as well as spare you from re-explaining material you already covered.Here are some tips for effective in-class note-taking that you can share with your students.
To be sure that your students use these tips properly and become better at note-taking, do a short follow-up. You can send them review questions via Remind and have them react for quick, formative assessment. Send your feedback to students as well—for example, you can attach a voice clip or a photo of great notes, or checklist of what good notes should include.Also, if you want students to use your tips properly and be in the know of the "life hacks" that could make their learning process easier, start a blog like EssayUniverse and share your advice there. This will help students to keep track of best hints for effective note-taking and more.Sharing these tips with your students will help you to cover more material, as well as increase overall learning and retention. A lesson in note-taking is time well spent.