As a math teacher I am constantly fighting with myself when is it appropriate to have the students use a calculator? On one hand, the state test for my students allows the students to use a calculator on the entire test, this is the first math test where that is the case. Is there an expectation that at this point the students should only do things through their calculator or is the state assuming that they have the basic skills to get by without a calculator when needed? I just feel with so much uncertainty, that there may not be a correct answer.
Personally my stance is that students need to learn how to do something the most in depth way, before they take any type of shortcut. For example, in graphing, my students learn to plot a graph through a table. Only after plotting from a table and practicing and learning about the idea of slope, do I present a new way to graph by putting a point on the y-intercept and then using the slope to count to the next spot on the graph. Students are then encouraged to do the problems the way they would prefer, most opt for the shortcut, but a few will still choose to use the table.
I will then transfer this idea to calculators. Students should be able to see by hand how to square something before they just do it on the calculator. Not for any other reason than learning and understanding the concept, rather than just memorizing what to push. I want my students to leave my room, not knowing how to push buttons, but how to problem solve. I want them to have a process learned in algebra, so that when an algebraic problem comes their way and it is different from the ones we did in class, that they will be able to apply the properties logically and achieve a correct answer.
How can we go deeper in mathematics, if we only provide a superficial learning to our students?
Effective technology is not just about sharing ideas on how to implement technology, but it is also about the technology used in the classroom.
When you allow the use of a calculator, ask yourself why you are doing it. Is it so the student can show they know what buttons to push or do you want to see them apply what they have learned?
As always,
Stay Effective!
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