Computerized+Notetaking

Computerized notetaking is a resource tool that "provides the student with a visual display of all verbal communication in the classroom" (MEYC, 2009, p.94). In a classroom, computerized notetaking "uses a laptop to type a summary of the information that is being spoken" (MEYC, 2009, p.94). In a classroom, a notetaker is hired and "usually: The student should sit near to the notetaker, or another idea would be for the information to appear on the student's laptop as the notetaker records the information.
 * provides graphic notetaking for all school-related activities (including co-curricular activities, parent meetings, and any other occasions that may arise)
 * paraphrases, summarizes, and modifies the language level of verbal information to meet student needs
 * modifies and summarizes notes; adapts the layout of notes and the content of the subject to meet student needs
 * prints copies for staff and students, as required
 * prepares for graphic notetaking: becomes acquainted with subject specific language and knowledge" (MEYC, 2009, p.94)

For the notetaker and teacher, some key guidelines are to:
 * label: clearly label all sheets with the course name, date, and page numbers
 * vocabulary: use age-appropriate vocabulary and highlight new or difficult words to review later with the student
 * handouts: collect handouts and indicate that they are handouts and not part of the spoken lesson
 * complete sentences: leave your notes in complete sentences so that students have the full picture when they refer to notes in the future
 * classroom chatter: type all classroom communication even if it is off topic or inappropriate. If you hear it, the students who are Deaf and/or hard of hearing have a right to hear it too
 * layout: highlight key points and use indents, bullets, and numbers to visually enhance the meaning of the notes
 * abbreviations: use the auto-correct option on your word processing program to accept certain abbreviations to increase the speed of your notetaking (eg. USA for United States of America; ppl for people)
 * (MEYC, 2009, p.95).

A program, [|C-Note] was designed by a student who has a hearing impairment can also be adapted to deliver the information a teacher presents in class. C-Note " allows communication between the student and the notetaker, independent use of linked computers, and production of hard copy notes from each" (Cuddihy, Fisher, Gordon, & Schumaker, 1994). Just like an interpreter using ASL assists a student with a hearing impairment know what is being said, the C-Note allows students to see the information hands on. Another bonus is it can be used as a communication tool between the student, the notetaker and the teacher. Using the C-Note may allow time for the student with a hearing impairment to ask questions pertaining to the information that is being delivered.