Peer Notetaker Guide for Instructors
Recruiting Notetakers
Peer notetakers are generally students enrolled in the same class who volunteer to regularly share copies of their notes.
Instructors can help identify peer notetakers. The Disability Center will reach out to via email to start the process.
- Make an announcement in class. If instructors choose to make an announcement, they should not identify the student with the accommodation. Information about the individual student should be kept confidential.
- Post an announcement of the Notetaker Request slide on Canvas. The Disability Center can provide instructors with an example slide, if needed.
- Ask someone in the class who would provide sufficient and adequate notes if they’d be willing to volunteer.
- Ask a TA/GA to share their notes (if possible).
During the recruitment phase, we ask that instructors provide the following support to the student requesting the accommodation:
- Provide the student a copy of slides and/or class notes, if available.
- Allow the student to record the class using their own device (e.g., cell phone, laptop) so they have access to the audio for review.
Benefits of Being a Peer Notetaker
Notetaking is an easy volunteer opportunity for students who attend class and take notes regularly.
Benefits to serving as a peer notetaker include:
- The ability to include the volunteer experience on a resume.
- Enhanced learning as peer notetakers report taking better notes and listening more attentively.
- Notetakers who are consistent and timely with note submissions may also be eligible to receive a stipend at the end of the semester (up to $100).
Students interested in becoming notetakers can email the accommodations coordinator, who will then instruct them on how the program works and how to get signed up.