Some instructors videotape their lectures.

The learning disability support center may have the notes (library of notes).

Some academic and social clubs save class notes.

I do not recommend tape recording classes if you are a visual learner.

Livescribe Echo Smartpen (3)

www.enablemart.com

888-640-1999

Price: $170 - $200

The Echo smartpen is a revolutionary new way to take notes. This pen actually records what is being said while you write so you can go back later, tap on anything you've written (or doodled ) and hear back exactly what was said at the moment you wrote it. Download the data to your computer and your notes are now searchable too!

How it works... The Pulse Pen works with special dot matrix paper that automatically tells the pen exactly where on the praper you are, on what page, and in what book and 'bookmarks' the audio recording with these locations giving you the ability to study like never before.

- Record and play back everything you write and hear (800 hours)

- Written notes become searchable when uploaded to your computer

- Send notes and audio by email or webcast

The ability to download lectures (with or without video) to computers/ipods/MP3 players is here (podcasting). Ask instructors, "Do you podcast your lectures?" Continue to go to class!

Record audio directly into your iPod with micromemo, a digital recorder compatible with video iPods. www.xtrememac.com ($79.95)

Digital Voice Recorders are now compatible with Dragon Naturally Speaking software (see pp. 57-58) - converts your digitally recorded files into written text.