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Although, previous research has probed the
positive effects of note-taking on academic
listening (e.g., Zohrabi & Esfandyari, 2014),
many of them concentrated on intermediate to
advance levels like B1 or B2 levels in academic
contexts where English is spoken and learned as
a second language. Just a few studies have
looked for the influence of note-taking on
beginner levels (A1, A2). Moreover, the
predominant format of audios used in the
studies have been lectures and not varied
contexts audios leaving a gap in understanding
its broader applicability. Recent studies, such as
those by Bao (2013) and Al-Ghazo (2023),
agreed that note-taking training brings great
benefits to learners, but they mainly used tests
like TOEFL impeding generalization in other
EFL contexts. This study tries to analyze the
gaps by concentrating on beginner learners and
explore the impact of note-taking by using
varied audio material.
This study seeks to investigate the impact of
note-taking strategies on the listening skills of
A1-A2 level EFL learners in a university
context. To be more specific, this study aims to
assess how effective various note-taking
strategies are in enhancing students’
comprehension. Also, to compare the fulfilment
between an experimental group who received
instruction in note-taking strategies and a
control group. Finally, this research seeks to
explore the students´ perceptions over the utility
of note-taking strategies in listening activities.
The research questions that guide this study are:
How do note-taking strategies affect the
listening skills of A1-level EFL learners iin a
university context? What are the earners'
perceptions of the use and effectiveness of note-
taking strategies in Englihs classes? Since the
study was carried out in a university with
beginner levels in an EFL context, it contributes
to filling the gap in the literature. Additionally,
the results of the study may benefit EFL
educators in general who seek to support EFL
learners in achieving listening proficiency.
Note-taking, in an English as a Foreign
Language (EFL) class, is the process of
recording key points, ideas, and examples
presented during lessons to support
comprehension and retention. It stimulates
active listening, organizes information, and the
notes can be reviewed outside the classroom to
reinforce concepts. (Flowerdew & Miller,
2005). Salame and Thompson (2020) found that
by using note-taking strategies, students
considerably increased their understanding with
the content which matches with the goal of
organizing information for later review thanks
to active listening. Effective note-taking
strategies, such as summarizing, outlines, and
the use of symbols or visual aids, encourage
autonomous learning and enhance critical
thinking (Brown, 2007). Furthermore, it is
considered an important academic skill that
helps students to process and internalize new
vocabulary, grammar structures, and cultural
nuances (Farr & Carey, 1986). The importance
of note-taking is more than writing down notes,
it actively engages students in the learning
process. When students take notes, they develop
their ability to focus on main ideas, identify
important details, and organize complex
information. This contributes to improving their
listening and writing skills (Brown, 2007).
Moreover, note-taking facilitates independent
learning since students can review their notes
and reflect on the content, this enables them to
analyze their own learning and reinforce
concepts. This process encourages deep
cognitive engagement, which is critical for
language acquisition (Flowerdew & Miller,
2005). Additionally, note-taking is important
for test preparation and long-term retention of
language concepts. Researches suggest that