how someone can take active notes to prepare for a collaborative discussion.
Notes are not something simply to jot down and file away; they are to be returned to and actively mined over time. There are a number of approaches to taking notes effectively, but one that has been broadly adopted is the Cornell method.
The strategy involves learners dividing their paper into two columns with a row across the bottom. Furthermore, it requires very little preparation which makes it ideal for note taking in a classroom or during a client meeting.
The strength of this method is the page layout. To make your own Cornell Notes, start by drawing a giant I on the page. At the top of the page you write down the name of the course, meeting or seminar together with the date and the subject. The left portion should be around 7 cm wide and is called the Cue / Questions / Keyword Column. This is where you’ll put your subheadings, all of which should be written as questions. In the larger column on the right, also called the note-taking column, write your notes in the usual manner.
A couple of inches should be left at the bottom for conclusions.
What are “active notes”?
I usually answer questions, but I am now more confused than ever!
I think I can work with this though. Thanks to PsyDAG
Taking active notes is an effective way to prepare for a collaborative discussion. Here's how someone can do it:
1. Understand the purpose: Before the discussion, familiarize yourself with the topic and the goals of the collaborative discussion. This will help you better organize your notes and focus on key points.
2. Use a structured format: Having a clear structure for your notes will make it easier to review them later. Create headings and subheadings to divide your notes into different sections. For example, you can have sections for main ideas, supporting evidence, questions, and action items.
3. Listen actively: During the discussion, focus on actively listening to what others are saying. Take notes on key points, ideas, arguments, and any relevant facts or data being mentioned. Use symbols, abbreviations, and bullet points to capture the essence of each point quickly.
4. Record different perspectives: Collaborative discussions often involve multiple viewpoints. Make sure to note down different perspectives and ideas shared by participants. This will help you understand different angles and contribute to a well-rounded discussion.
5. Ask questions and seek clarification: If there's something you don't understand or need further clarification on, jot down your questions. This will help you remember to ask for clarification or request additional information during the discussion.
6. Connect ideas: As the discussion progresses, try to identify connections between different ideas or points being discussed. Note down any connections or patterns you observe. This will help you contribute meaningfully to the discussion by highlighting these connections.
7. Summarize and highlight key takeaways: Towards the end of the discussion, take a few moments to summarize and highlight the key takeaways. This can include the main points, decisions made, action items, and any unresolved issues. This summary will be useful when reflecting on the discussion later or sharing it with others who couldn't attend.
Remember, the goal of taking active notes is not to transcribe everything said but to capture the essence of the discussion and facilitate meaningful participation.