Now that we live in the digital age, you can make full use of the technology available!
Below are some suggestions for how it can help you.
- Record each lecture on digital recorder, and then burn them to a CD for repeated listening (or transfer them in MP3 format to your preferred MP3 player)
- Type an outline as you do the reading (or download lecture notes which are available online), and fill it in during class
- If you can't type well, handwrite notes and type them up later - this improves your knowledge retention AND typing skills!
- Take paper to class anyway - you might need to quickly sketch a diagram
- Use wireless internet to look up information you don't understand; resist the temptation to IM at the same time!
- Use a flash drive to download slides/Powerpoint presentations provided by the instructor before you leave the class
- Don't try to organize your notes as you go - save that for after the class
- Use a Wiki to create outlines, fill them in - and it will make links to other classes/articles for you
- Make use of online resources like Wikipedia (an online encyclopedia), Encyclopedia Britannica and Project Gutenberg (free books out of copyright, both fiction and non-fiction) - these are all good starting places for further research
Laptops don't have to cost a fortune. It's possible to get a fully-functional laptop which is ideal for writing papers and doing research for under $600. Ask the IT staff for specific recommendations to suit your needs, or click here to get some general information.