TYPES OF LECTURERS
Be aware of the type of lecturer for the course. Most professors fall into one of these three categories.
1. Textbook Repeaters
The textbook may be difficult or confusing. Therefore, the professor follows the textbook exactly, often repeating information or offering examples to give students a clearer understanding of the material.
It may be helpful to have your textbook available(even though it's heavy to carry around) because the professor may give clues to potential test items or areas in which deeper study is needed.
2. Just New Stuff
The lecturer assumes you can read the textbook and will have little difficulty in understanding the material. Therefore, lecture consists of new material. New material might include pertinent examples, new research or developments, a different angle on a specific topic, or brand new information found nowhere in the textbook. It is often critical that you take accurate notes from this type of lecturer because you may see some of this information in a test format.
3. HALF AND HALF
Many lecturers combine both types. They restate what's in the text but combine that with new information. As a student, you need to be fully aware of what is in the textbook so you can follow along easily. Otherwise, you may miss the new information.