Notetaking support is provided for students whose documentation indicates that the disability may likely impact their ability to take comprehensive notes in class. Notetaking support is generally considered a supplement to a student’s own notes, however, situations can exist where the student is physically unable to take their own notes. It is not considered a substitute for a student’s full participation/attendance.
Notetaking assistance is provided as a necessary academic accommodation to students whose documentation indicates that the disability impairs the students’ ability to take effective notes during in-person lecture or labs or during synchronous online classes. Notetaking accommodations are considered using a holistic approach. Notetaking assistance is determined on a class-by-class basis taking into consideration the inherent features of each course and the method of instruction as it relates to the student’s documented disability. The goal is to supplement gaps in the notes as a result of missing information. The interactive process is used to decide appropriate note-taking accommodations. Notetaking accommodations should not be used as a substitute for a student’s full participation in class. Some of the common ways notetaking support is provided includes permission to use notetaking software, audio recording, and smart pens.
