The Learning Toolbox

T ry not to doodle while taking notes. Doodling breaks your concentration and takes your focus away from note taking. Each time you feel yourself wanting to doodle, take that urge and write down what the teacher is saying.
A rrive at each class prepared. Read all assigned readings and review all previous lecture notes so that you will understand what is covered in the lecture. If you are not prepared, you will be more likely to daydream and become distracted.
S it near the front of the classroom. Sit near the front so that you can clearly see the teacher, the chalkboard, and any overheads, Power Point or computer presentation.

S it away from friends. If you sit near friends, you will be tempted to talk or pass notes to them. If you have assigned seats and you have to sit near friends, resist talking to them or passing notes during class.
E nd daydreaming. If you become aware that you are daydreaming, immediately change your position. Sit forward and look at the teacher's eyes. Turn your attention to the teacher and write down whatever s/he is saying even if you may later find that it was not important.
L ook at the teacher. Make eye contact with the teacher as much as possible. This will give the feeling that you are having a conversation with the teacher. Whenever you are not taking notes or looking at the chalkboard, overheads, Power Point presentation, or computer screen, keep your eyes on the teacher.