First entry on Reading and note–making

Workshop Tutor: Dr Amanda Randall

Introduction

In the reading and notemaking seminar we discussed reading and notemaking techniques which can help in different situations. We discussed what the purpose of notes were and in what ways we could improve both reading speed and notemaking effiiciency.

We explored various techniques of notemaking such as linear notes, the cornell system, spider diagrams and mind maps. We then explored the differences scanning, skimming and close reading and how we can benefit from reading strategically for whatever purpose we have.

We were then given an exercise which involved reading and notemaking in order to help us improve our technique. We were encouraged to use another approach than normal in order to benefit from different techniques. As a person who usually writes too many notes and reads very slowly, I believe I was successful in reading the article quickly and getting brief but concise information from it.

Having considered the seminar as a whole, I was surprised but encouraged by the different techniques there are. I will now set out my action points for the coming weeks to improve my reading and notemaking.

Actions

1. My First Action Point will be to try to read quicker than my usual reading speed in the next 2 to 3 weeks during my holidays.

   I plan to use the pointer or finger technique in order to read concisely but quickly. I will also try both skim reading and scanning in order to find potentially important information for my courses.

2. My Second Action point is to review the notes I make on a regular basis for the next 4 to 5 weeks (in the run up to next term).

   After a notemaking session, I plan to look over my page of notes in order that I can process and think through my notes for a second time. I will then look back and read them over after making new notes.

3. My Third Action Point will be to take brief and concise notes for the next 6 weeks in the run up to and the start of next term.

   I aim to avoid writing examples in my notes unless I see them as absolutely necessary. I will also try to use abbreviations and shorter sentences.

4. NA

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David Walker : 04 Dec 2013 18:34 |  Tags: A1 Portfolio Actions Wspa |  Comments (1) |  Report a problem