Microsoft OneNote, a powerful note-taking app, is now integrated into Microsoft Teams, making it easier for teams to collaborate and organize their work. With the Class Notebook feature in Teams, teachers can create digital classrooms where students can take notes, share information, and communicate with each other. In this article, we'll explore how to use OneNote in Teams and its various features.

Tagging in OneNote

One of the key features of OneNote is tagging. You can add multiple tags to a single line of text, an entire paragraph, or even multiple paragraphs. This allows you to categorize and organize your notes easily, making it easier to find specific information later on. Tags are like tiny databases that help you collect similar information from different pages.

Class Notebooks in Teams

When you create a Team space in Microsoft Teams, you'll automatically get a Class Notebook feature. This notebook is divided into three sections: the teacher-only space, the collaborative space, and each student's individual page. The teacher-only space is for sharing materials with students, while the collaborative space is ideal for brainstorming and idea-sharing.

Students can use their individual pages to take notes on lectures, labs, or fieldwork, and share them with teachers for feedback and support. Teachers can also ask students to reflect on their learning, allowing them to give targeted support and feedback.

Caveats and Best Practices

While Class Notebooks are a great tool for collaborative learning, there are some caveats to consider:

* Synchronization issues have been reported by staff who use Class Notebooks.

* These notebooks may not be suitable for very large units with many students.

* The quiz feature in OneNote is not as powerful as those available in other platforms.

To get the most out of your Class Notebook, it's essential to use it wisely. Consider removing or renaming quizzes, handouts, and homework when setting up your notebook unless you intend to use them. You can also ask students to introduce themselves so that you can learn more about them without having to share with the wider class.

In conclusion, Microsoft OneNote in Teams offers a powerful tool for collaborative learning and note-taking. By understanding how to use tags, Class Notebooks, and other features, teachers and students can work together more effectively, sharing ideas and information seamlessly. Whether you're teaching a small class or a large unit, OneNote in Teams is an excellent way to stay organized and connected with your students.

How to use onenote in teams