Note taking-a better way

Taking notes is a necessity in virtually all high school and college classes, lectures, and training seminars. For a person who is unable to write due to a physical disability or injury, the need to take notes can present a serious problem. Many people try to record lectures using the built-in microphone on mini cassette recorders, usually with little success. Asking the lecturer to hold the recorder would be placing an undue burden on him or her. Another option is to hire a note taker. Hiring a person, unfortunately, can become very costly and volunteers are few and far between.

One answer to this common problem is to use a personal amplification system designed for people with hearing impairments. A personal amplification system usually consists of two parts: a transmitter with miniature microphone worn by the speaker, and a receiver with headphones worn by the listener. The transmitter uses an FM radio frequency to broadcast to the receiver with a range of several hundred feet. The lightweight transmitter can be equipped with a non-obtrusive lapel microphone and worn comfortably by the speaker. The receiver can then be plugged directly into the tape recorder's microphone jack using an inexpensive patch cord. The listener is now provided with a clear and consistently high quality recording. The speaker's location or orientation in the room does not effect the quality of the recording. He or she may even leave the room. In this case, the speaker may need to be reminded that the transmitter is still on as to not accidentally record any private or embarrassing conversation. Most portable tape recorders also accommodate a remote switch for stopping and starting the recording. Remote switches, as well as patch cords, can be purchased at local electronics supply stores.

Quality personal FM amplification systems generally cost between five and six hundred dollars. Fortunately, many schools and conference facilities have purchased these systems to accommodate people with hearing impairments. Be sure to ask if such a system is available. If purchasing a cassette recorder, be sure it contains jacks for an external microphone and remote switch. Recorders that use full-size cassette tapes are generally more reliable and provide a better quality playback. Cassette tapes may be purchased in lengths of up to 120 minutes (that's a full hour per side). For best recording, set the volume on the receiver to its lowest setting.

Companies that make personal FM systems:

Comtek Communications Technology c/o Audio Enhancement 1748 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 (801)254-9263

Phonic Ear, Inc. 3880 Cypress Drive Petaluma, CA 94954-7600 (800)227-0735

Telex Communications, Inc. 9600 Aldrich Ave. South Minneapolis, MN 55420 (800)328-3102

Williams Sound Corporation 10399 West 70th St. Eden Prairie, MN 55344-3459 (800)328-6190

Contact your local ATRC for more information on personal FM systems.