[Molten]

Originally Posted by sanddrag

While this is probably not a legit post, I feel the need to comment anyhow.

On the contrary, I think we should be teaching students HOW to use calculators before they enter college. We've had them since the 1970s. It's fine to learn the fundamentals of arithmetic at an early age, but beyond that, it's useless to sit and do things manually when calculators are so readily available. I think people should be able to do simple computations and estimations in their heads, but there's no need to be doing long division on paper.

I look at simple calculations as mental warmups. If your doing basic algebra, you should not be using a calculator. If your doing trig, you need a calculator. My main problem with calculators today is people's reliance on them. Sure, use them as a tool...but just as a tool. Not as a substitute. When it comes to tests, I use calculators for everything I can. When it comes to homework, I use calculators as little as I can. That is what I suggest to anyone that asks.(and some who don't). It just keeps your mind healthy and generally helps me work faster when it comes time for the test.

Jason

Note: Lets not turn this thread into a discussion of calculators. I'll be happy to have an in-depth discussion via PM to anyone that is interested.