First, writing things down helps you pay attention and helps the person speaking to you understand that you value the things they tell you. Simple eye-contact or nodding can show some listening, but actually writing it down shows the speaker you want to remember and apply their words of wisdom.
Second, writing things down helps you remember them. The brain power it takes to transfer thoughts and oral language into written words helps synthesize information. Thus, even without reviewing the notes, it aids in memory. Having a written record also allows you to go back and review notes you've taken.
Because of the benefit of writing things down, I am glad we took the time in-class to do this activity. I have now learned improved methods of reading a textbook, planning a dinner and proper use of dashes in sentences.
In the wise words of George Strait:
"Baby, write this down, take a little note to remind you in case you didn't know,
Tell yourself I love you and I don't want you to go, write this down.
Take my words, ready 'em every day, keep 'em close by, don't you let 'em fade away,
So you'll remember what I forgot to say, write this down."
A picture of George Strait, for your viewing pleasure:
It really does a lot for our minds when we do write something down, for me personally it gives me a chance to see my thought. In my head it is an idea, but when I write it down it takes a little effort because I try to articulate my thought so that others can understand. Writing things down is a great way for a lot of people to be able to commit something to memory.
ReplyDeleteI am super terrible at writing stuff down. Most of the time, I convince myself that if I "think" the thought hard enough, I will remember and retain. Rarely, if ever, does this work. Your post and our activities in class make me want to redouble my efforts. Thanks!
ReplyDelete....So I listened to this song while showering today. It randomly came on the radio and I new all the lyrics! So, no surprise that when I noticed the title of your post I had to take a look. I agree, writing things down is more than benificiel, it's a neccesity. I spoke to our professor the other day asking for tips, but I forgot half of them because I didn't right them down then and there. P.S. Gotta love country :)
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I agree with the previous 3 comments as well as your post. I typically convince myself that notes are not necessary, as I understand the material being taught, and then when I get home not only don't understand the material, but don't even remember the subject of the lesson itself :)
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