Human Notetakers vs Technology: A Comparison

In today’s world, technology offers numerous advantages, constantly evolving to benefit users.  However, it’s crucial to recognise the importance of human notetakers amidst this technological advancement.

 

Options for Notetaking:

In Person Notetakers:

Direct interaction: Students can ask questions and refer to notes in real-time, whether handwritten or on a screen.

Remote Notetakers:

Modern convenience: Lecture recordings are sent to notetakers who produce notes tailored to individual students within a specified time frame.

Technology-Based Notetaking:

Automated transcription: Transcribed notes are provided without direct contact, offering convenience but lacking customisation.

Considerations:

1. Overwhelm with Full Transcripts:

Students may find full transcripts overwhelming, especially with grammatical and jargon errors, causing confusion and stress.

2. Lack of Customisation:

Technology removes the option for students to specify their preferred note-taking style (e.g., verbatim, summary), impacting their ability to comprehend and trust the notes.

3. Consistency and Context:

Human notetakers offer consistency and contextual understanding, remembering previous sessions and adjusting notes to meet students’ needs, which aids comprehension and study continuity.

4. Plain English for Accessibility:

Plain English benefits deaf students, but technology may not accurately capture the grammatical nuances of sign language, hindering accessibility.

Looking Ahead:

While technology continues to improve, its limitations in providing personalised, context-rich notes highlight the enduring value of human notetakers. Consider individual student needs when deciding between technological solutions and human intervention to optimise learning experiences.