Do you think that calculators will eventually impair student’s mathematical abilities and result in mathematical illiteracy? Do calculators really allow more time for students to understand mathematical reasoning by cutting out the tedious working out of problems on paper and pencil? Are calculators causing students to become lazy by doing the work for them? Are calculators preventing students from learning basic mathematics?
Mathematics & Calculators
Basic Mathematical Skills Closing the Gap Pros Cons
Skills will be needed for future math classes Skills are needed to do everyday (common) jobs Skills are needed to enter data into calculator Skills are needed for everyday activities
Between Black, White, and Hispanic Students Students with Learning Problems Between Boys and Girls
Improve Problem-Solving Skills, Conceptual Understanding, and attitude towards math Increased Speed and Accuracy of Computations Focus on deeper Problem- Solving Issues Provides Immediate Feedback Students become more Active Learners
Hinders Retention of Basic Math Facts Serve as a Crutch Students are not being challenged enough Students will become too Dependent
Basic Skills should be taught First Considered to be an Equalizer in Mathematics The Good Outweighs the Bad