Virginia, there is nothing wrong with your students taking notes. The focus here is providing multiple paths to learning. I have taken time in the early part of a new group of students to discuss study habits and how to take good notes. For some the writing down of materials helps them to focus while for others taking notes is a distraction from the lesson. I would provide handouts but also recommend to those students that liked taking notes to put the information down in their own words. This is exceptionally helpful with students that struggle a bit with comprehension. If they struggle in class and need additional assistance, I ask them to bring in their notes so we can discuss what they were writing down and then provide tips on how to take better notes. Remember, provide multiple paths to learning and more of your students will be successful. Regards, James Jackson