A Note About Calculator Usage

One of my major criticisms about the calculator-based mathematics material I have seen published or presented at mathematics conferences is that the author of the material gets bogged down interpreting the precision of the calculator and the inputting of information into the calculator. Consequently, I lose track of the mathematics I'm trying to learn. Knowing about “pixel” size and how my calculator works does not enhance my mathematical understanding. Just as I am able to use my car to get to work without understanding the principles of the internal combustion engine, I believe we can use a calculator to advance our mathematical goals without understanding the details of “how” the calculations are accomplished. ...

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