Calculators in the Classroom

What is the Tool?

A calculator is a mechanical device used to compute mathematical equations. Recently, calculators are being used to solve algebraic equations, graph algebraic expressions, differentiate and integrate, and solve systems of equations. With calculators becoming more user-friendly, there is a big debate whether or not calculators should be used in classrooms.

How Can It Be Used?

Calculators are used to compute simple equations as well as complex functions. The use of calculators can help speed up the problem-solving process giving more time to solve other computations that a calculator can not solve. Calculators can be used in the classroom as well in every day-to-day calculations.

Advantages of Calculators in the Classroom:

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  Calculators can help students learn complicated material at all levels.


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  Calculators can improve student achievement by taking the hammering stress off of the student.


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  Calculators help improve students scores on test in both basic computation skills and problem solving.


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  The use of calculators in the classroom has been proven to help the students have better attitudes toward mathematics than children who do not use them.

Disadvantages of Calculators in the Classroom:

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  The use of calculators in the classroom can result in lack of mathematical experiences for students.


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  Students can become dependent on the use of a calculator causing the student to forget prior knowledge learned.


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  Calculators might not always be in hands reach for a student to compute simple mathematical equations.


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  Students can become frustrated in problem solving without the use of a calculator.

Who is the Audience for this Tool?

Calculators can be used for students at any age with the help and guidance of a teacher. Students can use to solve simple problem-solving equations as well as complex ones. As students mature in their mathematical experiences they will be come more comfortable with the use of calculators.

Where Can We Learn More About this Tool?

Coolmath.com has many fun interactive tools for students and teachers.

eCalc provides a down loadable calculator of your computer.

What is your Opinion on the Usefulness of this Tool?

I believe that the use of calculators in the classroom is very beneficial to student learning. Calculators should be mix with instruction and guidance from an instructor in order for the students to reach their full learning potential. The use of calculators can be used to speed up the problem solving method leaving more time for more instruction and practice in the classroom. Students need to be tested both with the use of a calculator and the use of pencil and paper in order to have students fully understand the material.