Technology In Education

Many high schools and colleges across the country have adapted to a heavily technology-based learning environment. St. Lawrence University is no different. It is not uncommon for students to follow along with their lectures while simultaneously taking notes on their computers. This is all part of the changing landscape of the American education system.  

One of the leading factors in the transition to a more online-based learning system has been the abundance of resources available online. Canvas is the world’s number one learning management system for schools. It allows professors to post assignments, PowerPoint presentations, and even tests and quizzes online for easy student access.   

Lillian Li, an assistant professor in the math department, touched upon the simplicity of an online resource like Canvas from a grading perspective. “You can grade the students’ assignments online, so that is a benefit of having them submit things electronically,” Li noted.  

As technology has increased, many students have transitioned to taking notes online as opposed to handwriting them. George Repicky, a First-Year Program instructor, has noticed this pattern in his classes. “The act of listening, digesting and writing… it’s not only a lost art, but people are dismissive of it because they don’t see the value of it,” said Repicky.   

Experts believe that writing down notes is a much more effective way to memorize and comprehend information. Colleen Coakley, associate director for advising, retention and student success, deals with students frequently. She recognizes the importance of writing down notes. “Because you are having to pick and choose what you write down, you are processing the information in a more effective way,” she said. 

Jamie Rosenzweig is a first-year student who works hard in the classroom. Unlike many of his classmates, he prefers to stick to a traditional method of notetaking. “A lot of kids take electronic notes these days, but I like to stick to the paper notes. They get me fired up,” Rosenzweig said.  

While many students take advantage of advancements in technology and type notes on their computers, there are still plenty of students who prefer to take pen-on-paper notes. There is no correct way to do it. However, studies have proven that taking notes on paper is the most effective way to memorize information.