Handwriting and Typing: The Impact of Note-Taking on Recall

• In Event: A Broad View of the Complexity of Learning With Technology

Abstract

Note-taking is a complex task that simultaneously involves listening, observing, recording, and coding verbal cues for the purpose of organizing information into coherent patterns for future recall. Note-taking, intrinsic to academia, has historically been utilized in classrooms from elementary school through college for recall and subsequent learning. Digital technology has changed the processes of note-taking, from single-handed process of handwriting to the bi-manual process; typing. Hypothesizing that note-taking is related to recall, assumptions follow that changes in the process of note-taking will impact recall. This assumption prompted and propelled study of the impact of note-taking on recall. High school participants took notes via handwriting or typing and completed several tasks. Results supported the research hypothesis that note-taking impacts recall.

Author

• Donna Murphy, Baltimore County Public Schools