Instructional Technology/Enhanced Mathematics/Calculators

Calculators are a very controversial issue in the classroom. Some people feel that it is effective in changing students' attitudes toward math and that it gives them the opportunity to experience realistic applications. On the other hand, there are teachers and parents who expect students to be able to do basic mathematical operations mentally or at least with paper and pencil. However, some students truly struggle with basic mathematic calculations (ex: memorizing multiplication facts, long division and operations with fractions).

Website on the Benefits of Calculator Use in Mathematics Classrooms  http://education.ti.com/us/resources/research/therole.html

This links to a site that outlines the benefits of calculator use in mathematics classrooms from Kindergarten through the University level. Calculators are tools for doing mathematical computations. This site describes how calculators, when used appropriately, can also be a tool for learning mathematics. Appropriate use of calculators is a way of increasing the amount and the quality of learning afforded students during the course of their mathematics education. Be careful however, the site is sponsored by Texas Instruments.

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