[Molten]

Originally Posted by boomergeek

Part of it could also be for the same reason teachers in more advanced math classes let students use calculators: because using machines instead of your brain to do more basic tasks frees the mind to concentrate on other things. Do you use a calculator or would you force yourself to compute long series of mathematical operations in your head?

This analogy is flawed.(at least for my college) You are allowed to use a scientific calculator, but that is it. No graphing. In fact, in my second semester of calculus we weren't even allowed a four function calculator. Any higher then that, and you tend to not do calculations. Everything is in letters and the calculator becomes a hindrance. Also, I prefer to do the math in my head and then check with calculator. It keeps my mind busy and energized. I find that if I rely on a calculator for every problem, my thoughts become sluggish. I simply start not to care about the big things. Think about the quote I posted below. There is much truth to it.

Also, from my experience with calculators: The more you use them, the more likely you are to make a typo.

"Only those who have the patience to do simple things perfectly will acquire the skill to do difficult things easily."
-- Johann Schiller, poet and historian