Note-Taking Support

Taking notes while listening to a lecture is a dual-task that can be especially difficult for students with dyslexia, who may struggle with writing speed, spelling, and organizing information in real time. Note-taking accommodations include permission to record lectures, smart pen technology that links audio to handwritten notes, AI-powered transcription tools that convert lectures to text, and access to peer or professional note-takers. These tools ensure students can review complete, accurate lecture content later.

Frequently Asked Questions: Note-Taking Support

What note-taking accommodations can dyslexic students receive?
Common note-taking accommodations include permission to audio-record lectures, access to a note-taker or copies of another student's notes, use of smart pen technology, extended time for note review, and use of laptop or tablet for typing notes instead of handwriting. These can be documented in an IEP, 504 plan, or through college disability services.
Are students allowed to record lectures in college?
Recording lectures is a common accommodation offered by many college disability services offices. Students with documented learning disabilities like dyslexia can often receive formal permission to record lectures. Some colleges also provide access to professional note-taking services or peer note-takers. Policies differ between institutions, so check with your college's disability services office.
What are smart pens and how do they help with dyslexia?
Smart pens like the Livescribe pen record audio while you write, syncing your handwritten notes with the corresponding audio. When reviewing notes later, students can tap on any word they wrote and hear exactly what was being said at that moment. This is particularly helpful for dyslexic students who may miss details while trying to write during lectures.

Other Accommodation Categories

Reading Support

Tools that support dyslexic students with reading.

Accommodation names include: Proctor Reader, Adaptive Software - Screen Reader.

Writing Support

Tools that help dyslexic students express their ideas in writing.

Accommodation names include: Computer with Spell Check.

Assistive Devices

Dedicated reading pens, e-readers, and specialized hardware that provide hands-on support for dyslexic students in the classroom.