How to Obtain a Notetaker

A student is required to be registered with the Disability Resource Center prior to receiving services. Recent information that documents the presence of a disabling condition and verifies the student's request for services is required from a qualified professional. Check with the DRC Coordinator for information.

Requesting a Notetaker

  • Meet with the DRC Coordinator to discuss eligibility.
  • Complete and sign the Notetaker Contract.
  • Pick up Instructor Packet from the DRC before the first day of class.

Locating and Selecting a Notetaker

  • Give instructor the Instructor Packet before class so that a class announcement can be made on the first day.
  • The instructor will give the notetaker packet to the volunteer(s).
  • Meet with the volunteer(s) after class to evaluate their notes.
  • Choose a primary notetaker based on your preferences. Suggestion: Have your instructor help you choose your primary notetaker.
  • Determine with your notetaker on how the notes will be exchanged. Exchange contact information at this time. Notes may be left for you at DRC in the student boxes located at the front desk, UCB 130. The notetaker can use NCR paper, available at the DRC office, or the notetaker can copy the notes for you in the DRC office.

If No One Responds

  • If no one volunteers the first day, ask your instructor for a copy of his or her notes. Or, try to...
  • Ask for the notes from a classmate. If the notes are adequate, ask the student if he or she would like to be your notetaker. If this does not work...
  • Contact DRC (602.543.8145) to state that you need help in locating a notetaker.

Employing a Notetaker

  • Contact the primary notetaker by phone and arrange a meeting before the start of the next class.
  • Have the primary notetaker come to the DRC to complete the Notetaker Contract within 48 hours.
  • Retain the other volunteers as backups. Make TWO copies of their names and phone numbers. Keep one copy. Give one copy to your primary notetaker in case of absences.
  • Within two weeks of the beginning of the class, review the class notes with the instructor and your notetaker. Repeat this evaluation periodically throughout the semester.
  • Communicate regularly and honestly with your notetaker about the quality of your notes. Ask for what you need. Give positive feedback.
  • Using a notetaker is not a substitute for class attendance. Notes for classes missed are not the responsibility of your notetaker. Unavoidable absences should be discussed with the DRC.

Replacing a Notetaker

  • You can replace a notetaker at any time.
  • If a notetaker misses 3 classes, he or she forfeits the stipend or letter of recommendation, according to the terms of the Notetaker Contract.
  • One of the backup notetakers should be asked to step in, OR
  • The original process of class announcement is implemented.

End of the Semester

  • You will be required to fill out a Notetaker Evaluation Form to process payment for your notetaker. You may obtain the evaluation form from the DRC office or submit the information on the web. Evaluations should be submitted during the last week of class, before final exams. Your notetaker will not be paid until you submit the form, so please be prompt.