Note-taking
You will work with Accessibility Services to determine the type of note-taking accommodation that will work best for them. If you are interested in a technology-based note-taking method, we will meet with you to provide the necessary materials, as well as training to help you succeed with your new note-taking strategy. We will also provide ongoing support with note-taking throughout the semester.
The Echo Smartpen is used to take notes in class while recording the lecture. The audio is synced with the notes as they’re being written. The user can "tap" notes with their pen to hear the audio that corresponds to that section of notes. The synced audio and notes can be transferred to the user’s computer, where they can listen to the audio by section, sort and save notes, and search for specific words in the handwritten notes.
Accessibility Services has several of these smartpens available for students to borrow as part of a note-taking accommodation.
Similar to the Echo Smartpen, the Livescribe 3 Smartpen syncs notes with the recording of the lecture. However, this smartpen connects to an iPhone, iPad, or Android phone or tablet via a Bluetooth® wireless connection. The audio is captured by the device’s microphone, rather than by the pen. Notes are instantly synced to the device and are available in the app or on the user’s computer. The app is able to convert handwritten notes into typed text, which is synced with the audio as well. The Livescribe 3 Smartpen can be used with any Android device running Android OS v4.4.2 or newer with support for Bluetooth Smart, or iOS devices running iOS 7 or newer with support for Bluetooth Smart.
Disability Services has several Livescribe 3 Smartpens available for students who have their own compatible device and are approved for note-taking accommodations.
Notetaking Express is a note-taking service that makes notes from a recording of a lecture. If you receive this accommodation, we’ll make you an account with Note-taking Express, to which you’ll upload recordings of lectures. With this account, you’ll be able to receive your notes within 48 hours. A professional note-taker listens to the recordings, and then uploads their notes to your account for you to review.
You can make recordings on your phone, computer, or other recording device.
Accessibility Services hires students as note-takers to provide supplemental notes for other students with a variety of disabilities. Note-takers receive incentive in the form of compensation from Accessibility Services in return for clear, complete and legible notes that are provided to the student. This approved accommodation provides equal access for all students.