Impact of calculators on Education

Calculators have played a significant role in the education system, particularly in high school. In this article, we will explore the impact of calculators on high school education, and how they have helped students learn and understand complex mathematical concepts.

The introduction of calculators in the classroom has had a profound impact on the way mathematics is taught and learned in high school. With the ability to perform complex calculations quickly and accurately, calculators have revolutionized the learning process, allowing students to focus on the concepts and principles behind mathematical problems.

From the educators

"Before the widespread use of calculators, students had to rely on mental calculations or use of slide rules, which could be time-consuming and prone to errors," says Dr. Sarah Green, a mathematics educator at New York University. "Now, students can focus on understanding the underlying concepts and principles, rather than spending time on the calculations themselves."
According to a recent study by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), the use of calculators has led to a significant increase in student engagement and motivation in mathematics classes. As students are able to solve more complex problems with ease, they have become more interested in the subject, leading to better understanding and retention of the material.
Moreover, calculators have opened doors for students to explore more advanced mathematical concepts, such as calculus and trigonometry, which were previously taught only to a select few students. "With the help of calculators, students can now visualize and explore these concepts in a way that was not possible before," adds Dr. Green.
To support this, here are some key statistics on the impact of calculators in the classroom:
  • A study by the University of California found that students who used calculators in mathematics classes outperformed their peers who did not use calculators by an average of 25%.
  • The NCTM found that students who use calculators in mathematics classes are more likely to pursue advanced mathematical studies and careers, such as engineering and computer science.
  • A survey by the National Science Foundation found that students who used calculators in mathematics classes had a better understanding of mathematical concepts and were more confident in their problem-solving abilities.

    • Calculators in the Classroom: Studies

    “The Effects of Non-CAS Graphing Calculators on Student Achievement and Attitude Levels in Mathematics: A Meta-Analysis”, is a paper by Aimee J. Ellington that explores the impact of using non-CAS (computer algebra system) graphing calculators on student achievement and attitude levels in mathematics. The study conducted a meta-analysis of existing research on the topic, in order to synthesize the results and provide a comprehensive understanding of the effects of non-CAS graphing calculators on students.
    The results showed that the use of non-CAS graphing calculators had a positive impact on student achievement in mathematics, with students who used the calculators scoring higher on standardized tests compared to those who did not. Additionally, the study found that the use of non-CAS graphing calculators improved students' attitudes towards mathematics, leading to greater engagement and motivation in the subject.
    Overall, the results of this meta-analysis suggest that the use of non-CAS graphing calculators can have a positive impact on student achievement and attitude levels in mathematics. The study highlights the importance of incorporating technology in the classroom, in order to enhance students' understanding of mathematical concepts and improve their engagement and motivation in the subject.
    In conclusion, the introduction of calculators in the classroom has had a transformative impact on the way mathematics is taught and learned in high school. By enabling students to focus on understanding mathematical concepts and principles, and by opening doors for students to explore advanced mathematical topics, calculators have played a critical role in the advancement of mathematics education.