Re: Programmable Calculator Policies

[George Marrash <gmarrash@mccallie.chattanooga.tn.us>]

After further thought I am sttarting to realize that the problem is not with
a certian type of calculator or even a new piece of software, but rather
with the idea that perhaps we need to reevaluate how we are teaching in
light of the new tools that students have, instead of trying beat the tools.
I think a piece of software like mathcad of mathmatica will allow use to
teach the core ideas at a much earlier age and make absrtact principles more
concrete, which would hopefully translate into better learning.

In short I am saying the we may need to incorperate new tools.

regards george marrash


At 11:29 AM 2/24/97 -0500, you wrote:
> > > > I now have a policy of erasing students' calculator memories before 
> > > > tests or to do without the calculator if the students scream.  In 
> > > > addition, as much as possible, I try to make test questions that do not  
> > > > require the use of a calculator.  
> > > >
> > > > What are some of your comments or policies concerning programmable 
> > > > calculators?  I would like to hear from both high school and college 
> > > > instructors.
>
> I have had similar experiences.  Also, with each new calculator out 
> there, I have to get another manual or find someone with one in order to 
> learn how to clear the memory.  My solution is simple, I have bought a 
> class set (30) calculators.  I issue them to the students during class to 
> use.  I intruct them on how to use them.  I check periodically for 
> illegal programs.  They use my calculators or none on the tests.
> Its a bit expensive to start, but I have found it worthwhile.  Once you 
> get started, its a matter of replacing one or two a year.-- 
>
>
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> +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
> Mariam W. Dittmann
> DeKalb College
> Clarkston, GA
>
> mdittman@dekalb.dc.peachnet.edu
>
> +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
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* George Marrash              Heaven help the man who is not  *
* The McCallie School                                         *
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