Technology Assisted Notetaking

Increasingly students are utilizing notetaking software as a means of taking notes. This software allows students to organize their notes, type their notes, and often record audio as well. This generally includes utilizing both hardware and specific software:

  • Hardware such as a laptop, Smartpen, or other device
  • Software such as OneNote, Glean, or Microsoft Word

Specific technology that the student would like to use can be discussed with SAS directly. 

Key Things to Know

  • The notetaking technology should only be used for notetaking or otherwise approved activities. For example, if using a computer to type notes, this computer should only be used for typing notes.
  • This accommodation still applies in classes that might have no-technology policies. Professors should speak with SAS if they have any questions about whether an accommodation might modify an essential course requirement.
  • Students should share information about the device they plan on using with their instructor in advance.
  • Some technology supports include an option for recording. Students who wish to utilize audio recording need to be specifically approved for Ability to Audio Record. 

Student Responsibilities

Students are responsible for…

  • Meeting all student accommodation responsibilities. 
  • Discussing the type of technology they plan to use to take notes with the instructor proactively (i.e., before use for notetaking).
  • Discussing how the technology will be used for taking notes with their instructor.
  • Ensuring device is not used in a disruptive manner

Common Questions

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No. Students may only use their notetaking technology for notetaking purposes. Unless otherwise noted, instructors must give specific permission to students to use their notetaking technology for other purposes.

Yes. Depending on the course and the type of notes the student is looking to take, they may use different technologies throughout the semester. This is quite common when students are determining strategies that work best for them. However, it should be noted that students should talk with instructors if they plan to change the technology they will use.

Yes, but only if: 

  • The request to the student is specific to a circumstance where any notetaking would not be appropriate.
  • Other students are also informed that notetaking is not appropriate

Please talk with SAS as soon as possible if there are concerns about utilizing the notetaking support.