Take the best notes from your virtual lectures with these tips!
First, sign into Zoom or Teams 5-10 minutes before class, turn off your devices not currently in use and spend time reviewing previous notes in preparation for the upcoming lecture.
Once the lecture begins:
1. Listen carefully to your course instructor and look out for areas in the lecture that have:
- Visual cues e.g. charts, pictures, diagrams explaining concepts or terms.
- Instructor writings on the white board
2. Try taking legible notes using your best handwriting or perhaps typing notes in your own words.
3. Notice how much time your instructor spends on one point. If something is important, it is likely that your course instructor will speak about it more than once, and you should take notes.
4. If you hear something you already know, you don’t need to write notes on it.
5. Don’t feel pressured to take notes from PowerPoint, especially if it will be made available later.
6. Leave ample space to make notes after class, as you review the lecture, you may recall more points from class.
This list was compiled from an adaption of the resource created by the Learning Assistance Program at the University of Victoria. See Learning Assistance Program Notetaking tips.
Final, final tip: Did you know there are multiple ways to take notes? Here you can learn about outline, cornell, concept mapping and charting notes!
Want to learn more about notetaking strategies?
Contact one of the Learning Strategists to get specific learning needs and resources from developing best practices for studying online, adopting test taking strategies, building productivity as a student and refining literacy skills.
If you are needing additional support, UVic has several virtual services for students offered through University of Victoria Student Support Services.
