Hi Craig. Excellent, thought and discussion provoking piece!
I think your right!
For me, as for @WendyTagg. Personally, I need to take notes (whether it be in a meeting or a training event) to 'process' the information and relate to my relevant context. Else...what's the point? I don't let this distract me from the speaker/presenter, and I hope in doing so they always appreciate I am not being rude...on the contrary I am be respectful and really considering the subject matter.
So back the the original question - electronic notes or pen and paper. Until recently I did use pen and paper - not because I wanted to but simply because I couldn't type fast enough and had no chance of inventing my own short-hand! What I have to say (without plugging Apple) is that using an iPad and a stylus has revolutionised my note talking. No more pen and paper for me! It's a s balck and white as, either:
a) leave an event with reams of paper covered in my writing (that I may find difficult to interpret - handwritting problem!) that I cannot easily share, update or store; or
b) leave an event with an electronic note that I can easily share, update and file......(although I may still have an issue understanding my handwriting!).