University of Arizona

For most students having access to quality notes is an integral part of the learning process. However, taking notes in class can present barriers for some students.

If writing notes in class is a barrier for you, you will want to explore other options:

  1. Using a laptop for note-taking
  2. Recording the class using a digital recorder or other recording device
  3. Using notes that your instructor posts on D2L or a course Website.  You can check with the instructor or DRC.

If these options don’t work, talk with an Access Consultant about requesting note-taking as an accommodation. Regardless of how you secure notes, your active engagement is essential in ensuring that the notes are effective. 

Setting up Note-taking:Student in Class

For each class in which you have determined notes will be useful, you can:

  1. Ask a classmate directly to make copies or scan and email notes to share with you.
  2. If you feel uncomfortable asking someone directly, ask your instructor to make an announcement for a volunteer who is willing to share notes.
  • Print off a copy of the Faculty Letter that includes a note-taking announcement.
  • Ask the instructor to read the announcement at the beginning of two subsequent class periods.
  • Meet the note-taker after class and discuss the best way to share notes.
  • You can get copies of another student’s notes by photocopying at the DRC, asking the student to email you a scanned or electronic copy of the notes or giving the student carbon (NCR) paper to make two copies of the notes immediately after class.  Ask a Consultant if you’d like to use NCR paper.
  1. If you feel uncomfortable asking your instructor please let you Access Consultant know so they can reach out to the instructor and classmates.

Managing your Notes

If you are using notes from a classmate, you are the manager of your note-taking experience.

  • Be in class each day so that the notes are meaningful to you.
  • Give feedback to the note-taker to make the notes as useful as possible.  If current notes don’t work for you, you can find a different note-taker at any time.
  • Let an Access Consultant know immediately if your notes are ineffective
  • Don’t pass a note-takers notes around to the whole class.  This disrespects the efforts the note-taker is making.  Of course, you can use the notes to study with a classmate or share notes on a given day if a friend is out sick.

See more information regarding the Note-taker's Role