The students were able to stenograph and record the conversation.
Examples of stenograph
stenograph
He has written charts on every potential draftee in Mead stenograph binder notebooks.
From the washingtonpost.com
Court reporters typically record words in a unique shorthand language using a machine called a stenograph.
From the online.wsj.com
Most court reporters must buy their own equipment, including stenograph machines, which can cost $5,000 or more, laptop computers and transcription technology.
From the online.wsj.com
Also in the area just in front of the judge's bench is the court reporter who also records proceedings on a stenograph, by typing keys as the witnesses speak, using special shorthand.
From the en.wikipedia.org
More examples
A shorthand character
Write in shorthand; "The students were able to stenograph and record the conversation"
A stenotype, stenotype machine or shorthand machine is a specialized chorded keyboard or typewriter used by stenographers for shorthand use. ...
A production of stenography; anything written in shorthand; To write or report in stenographic characters