Lecture Notes: Reading and Note-Taking
Importance of Reading
- Reading is essential and often considered hard work.
- Statistics:
- Typical American reads 4 books a year (Pew Research, 2016).
- CEOs read 60 books a year (Fast Company, 2018).
- Motivation:
- To be exceptional, do things that average people don't, like reading more.
- Reading is a way to learn new things and set yourself apart.
Module Goals
- Discuss how reading differs in college.
- Demonstrate the usefulness of strong note-taking for college students.
Content Overview
1. Nature and Types of Reading
- Reading is a necessity in many areas of life.
- College may demand more reading than before.
2. Effective Reading Strategies
- Reading Speed:
- Determine your reading speed to plan study time.
- Active Reading:
- Involves thinking, questioning, and taking notes while reading.
- Learn new terms and vocabulary specific to your discipline.
- Evaluate and apply what you read to real-life situations.
- Tips:
- Slow down, pay attention, ask questions.
- Turn off distractions like your cell phone.
3. Taking Notes
- Historical Example:
- Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks emphasize the importance of note-taking.
- Benefits of Note-Taking:
- Engages brain and body, strengthens connection with information.
- Helps internalize and "own" the material.
- Methods:
- Cornell Method:
- Developed by Walter Pauk, involves separating and rewriting ideas in your own words.
- Other Techniques:
- Outlines, charts, tables, mind maps (also used in business as brainstorming charts).
- Annotations to clarify complex readings.
Reviewing Notes
- Regular review is crucial for recall and application beyond the classroom.
- Enhances ability to use information in tests, career, and life.
End of notes for this lecture.