Taking notes with different writing devices influences learning processes but not performance: an EEG study comparing ink pens, digital pens, and keyboards

Notetaking with digital devices during asynchronous online learning remains controversial. This study investigated how three writing devices—ink pens, digital pens, and laptops—interact with active (verbatim) vs. constructive (question) notetaking strategies during video lectures. During a within-design laboratory experiment, EEG data was recorded while 33 undergraduate students took notes for learning sessions using different notetaking devices and strategies, followed by immediate post-tests. Time-frequency analysis revealed significant differences in theta, alpha, beta, and gamma band power across devices, and significant interaction effects in beta, gamma, and theta/beta values. Both pen types showed higher alpha, beta, and gamma power and lower theta/beta ratios compared to keyboards, particularly in occipital regions associated with sustained visual attention. However, interaction effects indicate the importance of notetaking strategy, and immediate post-test performance showed no significant differences across conditions. The findings suggest that notetaking media influence learning processes and attention sustainment differently, though immediate performance outcomes remain similar. This has implications for designing asynchronous online learning environments and guiding notetaking practices in those settings.