1. Being Engaged in Learning: Listening, Taking Notes, and Participating in Class

2. Your Turn
What kind of notes did you take in high school? Do you think you learned how to take good notes? Is the same method working for you now? Why or why not?

3. Using Your Senses in the Learning Process
How do you believe you learn most effectively?
Aural
Visual
Interactive
Tactile
Kinesthetic
Olfactory

4. Preparing for Class Some classes are hard to follow and understand
Prepare by listening, learning and remembering before the lecture
Will help in getting better grades
Before-class tips:
Do the assigned reading
Pay attention to your course syllabus
Make use of additional materials
Warm up for class
Get organized

5. Participating in Class
Listening critically and with an open mind can help you
get more out of what you hear
understand better what you have heard
save time
Speak up
Answers that are not quite correct and lead to new perspectives on topics
There is no such thing as a stupid question

6. Your Turn
Is it hard or easy for you to raise your hand and ask questions in most of your classes? Why? How can you become more involved?

7. Taking Effective Notes
Note-taking formats
Cornell
Outline
Paragraph
List
Note-taking techniques
Identify the main ideas
Don’t try to write everything down
Taking notes in non-lecture courses
Be ready to adapt note-taking methods to match the situation
Taking notes in science and mathematics courses
May differ from taking notes in other types of classes
Using technology to take notes
Laptops, recorders

8. Your Turn
Which of the four note-taking methods (Cornell, outline, paragraph, list) is most like the one you use? How well does your current system work for you? Explain your answer. What changes will you make in how you take your notes?

9. Reviewing Your Notes The “Forgetting Curve” Comparing notes
Most forgetting takes place within the first 24 hours
Comparing notes
Can help improve your own notes
Class notes and homework
Good notes can help you complete homework assignments
Take 10 minutes to review your notes
Do a warm-up for your homework
Do any assigned problems and questions
Persevere
Complete your work

10. Your Turn
What are your reactions to the suggestions about taking notes and studying for class? Which ideas will you implement in your note-taking strategies? Why? Do you think they have the potential to help you earn better grades? If so, in what way?

11. Become Engaged in Learning
Engaged students not only learn the material but also how to
Work with others
Improve critical thinking, listening, writing, and speaking skills
Function independently and self-teach
Manage time
Gain sensitivity to cultural differences
Need to devote time and energy both in and out of class

12. Tech Tip: Take Notes Like a Rock Star
Using basic programs to sharpen your note-taking skills set
Word
Great for taking notes in most classes
Excel
Good for economics and accounting courses
PowerPoint
Invaluable tool for visual learners