Technology Assisted Notetaking

Since it can promote independence, technology assisted notetaking is something that SAS encourages students to use when possible. Increasingly students are utilizing software as a means of taking notes. This software allows for students to organize their notes, type their notes, and often record audio as well. This accommodation can include utilizing a wide range of different notetaking options including:

  • The use of hardware for notetaking (laptop, Smartpen, or other device)
  • The use of software for notetaking (OneNote, etc.).

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. If the technology has the ability to record, please see: Ability to Record Audio

Student Responsibilities

Students are responsible for…

  • Meeting all general accommodation responsibilities as outlined on the SAS Website.
  • 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.
  • If the student plans on utilizing audio recording at any point, following all steps as per the guidance found within the Ability to Record Audio.

Implementation Recommendations

As an instructor implementing this accommodation, we recommend that you...

  • Talk with students proactively regarding the technology they will use to take notes in class. Questions can include, but are not limited to:
    • What device/program will you use to take notes?
    • Do you use a specific software when taking notes?
    • Are there any times that you will take notes in other ways? For example, if you are using a laptop, do you also use a tablet at times?
    • What are some past notetaking strategies that have been helpful for you in the past?
    • Does your device allow you to audio record?
    • Is there anything that might help facilitate notetaking more effectively?
  • Determine if the student plans on recording any audio through their technology. If yes, please discuss audio recording requirements with the student (SEE Ability to Record Audio)
  • Outline any specific instances when using the technology may be unreasonable for your course and discuss potential limitations with SAS. Please note that the instances when it would be unreasonable to implement this accommodation are those in which any student notetaking is unreasonable. For instance, this could be moments where students are sharing personal narratives or survivors are sharing their stories. In these cases, it would be appropriate to inform all students to stop taking notes.

Common Questions

Can students use the technology for non-notetaking purposes?

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.

Can students use different technology through the semester?

Yes. Depending on the course and the type of notes the student is looking to take, they may use different technologies through 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 on changing the technology they will use.

If already approved, can the student be asked to stop using their notetaking support?

Yes, but only if: 

  1. The request to the student is specific to a circumstance where any notetaking would not be appropriate. 
  2. 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.