LEVEL OF KNOWLEDGE

The level of knowledge refers to the how much background knowledge you need to be successful in a class.  There are    two categories.

1. Introductory Class

In an introductory class, you are not expected to have   too much technical knowledge about the subject.  For example, you may hear the word "cell" and think of a prison cell.  This is a great visualization for you if you happen to be in a class about criminal justice. But what if you are in a biology class, a theology class, a math class?  The simple word "cell" takes on new meanings.

Many times students become discouraged in taking notes        in an introductory course.   The sentences "I don't know     what she's talking about" or "I just don't get these terms,   so how can I expect to learn anything?" become the usual comments. DON'T fall into this trap.  DON'T abandon note taking because the subject seems unfamiliar or difficult. 

If you keep up with the reading, the lectures will become  clear and the professor's examples will make sense.  Your spelling of terms may not be perfect in your notes.  Again, don't use this as an excuse to give up on notes.  After all, you have a textbook.  You can always refer to new terms in  your book.

2. Advanced Class

For an advanced class it is assumed that you have the background knowledge.  You having a working vocabulary for    the subject as well as an understanding of basic concepts.   You may be so knowledgeable that you have already established  a personal shorthand for taking notes.

Sometimes, however, one can forget the specific details of a topic which is mentioned in a class lecture.   This is not a time to panic; merely make a note to yourself to review the information which you need.  If you've kept notes from previous classes, you may merely want to review information from them.

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