Question

Do you guys think calculators are beneficial or detrimental to highschool level math classes?

Answer 1

If you use them as a tool, and understand the math going on, then you should be fine. If you rely on them as a crutch and solely depend on the calculator (eg: rely on a solver that does all the work for you), then you'll be in trouble. So I think there's a bit of gray area and balance is needed.

Answer 2

I agree, I ask because I see a lot of questions on here regarding using them. I think they are important to know how to use but for example my college doesnt offer a single math class that allows us to use calculators. Even classes like linear algebra and complex analysis. It seems like a lot of colleges are like this, and idk why highschools are giving kids these expectations they'll be able to use them later on

Answer 3

It depends on which field you're going into. If you're going into applied math or science, then it's handy. If you're going for pure math or things like that, then yeah, calculators won't help you do critical thinking, proofs, etc