A Learning Secret: Don't Take Notes with a Laptop (2014) (scientificamerican.com)

Article summary

Research by Pam Mueller and Daniel Oppenheimer found that students who take notes by hand tend to have a deeper understanding of the material and better retention than those who take notes using laptops. This is because writing by hand requires more cognitive processing and summarization, whereas typing on a laptop can lead to mindless transcription. The study suggests that the benefits of longhand notes are due to the conceptual processes they evoke, rather than just the act of writing itself. This has implications for students who use laptops to access lecture outlines and notes, as they may be missing out on the opportunity to engage in mental work that supports learning.

Main themes

• note taking methods
• learning and retention
• technology in education
• cognitive processing
• environmental impact

What commenters say

• Taking notes by hand is more effective for learning and retention than typing on a laptop because it requires more cognitive processing and summarization.
• The environmental impact of using laptops versus paper for note taking is a complex issue that depends on various factors, including the source of the paper and the production process of the laptop.
• Some people find that taking notes by hand is not necessary for learning and that other methods, such as listening and conceptualizing mentally, can be just as effective.
• The use of laptops in the classroom can be distracting and may lead to a lack of attention and engagement with the material being presented.
• Shorthand and other alternative note taking methods can be effective for some individuals, particularly those who struggle with handwriting or need to take notes quickly.
• The benefits of longhand notes may not be universal and some people may find that typing on a laptop works better for them due to personal preferences or needs.
• The social impact of taking notes on a physical pad versus a laptop can influence how others perceive one's level of attention and engagement.
• Some individuals find that reviewing and organizing notes is an important part of the learning process, regardless of whether they are taken by hand or on a laptop.