Effectiveness of Graphing Calculators in K–12 Mathematics Achievement:A Systematic Review by Empirical Education is a research report about the use of graphing calculators in the classroom. The research includes grades K-12 in mathematics. I enjoyed reviewing this article because I hope to be certified 1-12 by the end of next May (with a concentration in mathematics, of course). This article includes research from various studies: girls vs. boys, calculators vs. non-calculators, studies in China, a comparison of mathematical topics (i.e. Algebra vs Statistics using a calculator). Included in the twenty one page article are charts, graphs, multiple studies and the results. After each case study the article explains each test performed and what the outcomes were. It turns out that calculators, especially graphing calculators in the higher grades, show an increased level of confidence when performing mathematical computations. Mentioned are the positive results from the use of calculators by students with disabilities. It also shows that there is no difference between the performance of boys and girls!
After reading this article, I found myself agreeing to most of the research. I was, however, surprised when I read certain studies, not by the results, but the different studies. I believe calculators, when used appropriately definitely enhance mathematical learning. To go through elementary school, middle school and high school without the use of a calculator is restricting on not just mathematics, but sciences and technology.
Link to site: http://education.ti.com/sites/US/downloads/pdf/eei_graphingcalcreviewreport_2006.pdf
4.10.2008
Why Statistics?
I recall in high school asking the question “When will I ever use this?” Now in college, I can see applications of the mathematics we were forced to learn in high school. If one of my students asks me “when will I use this?” I will emphasize the importance of statistics. Companies must know public opinion on foods and clothing, music and television shows. Statistics is an important factor in basing decisions on whether to continue with a product or take the product off the market. Polling the public is a good way to see opinions on certain topics, but how will you calculate results if you don’t know statistics?
Statistics play a very important role for students in school, as well. Teachers may calculate the mean and see how everyone compares. Students can use this information to see where they fall among the class. Analyzing other statistical data from an exam or project assignment may actually help students. Discussing this information with students will help them see how decisions are based off the facts. We have to be able to calculate the facts and we do this with statistics.
Statistics play a very important role for students in school, as well. Teachers may calculate the mean and see how everyone compares. Students can use this information to see where they fall among the class. Analyzing other statistical data from an exam or project assignment may actually help students. Discussing this information with students will help them see how decisions are based off the facts. We have to be able to calculate the facts and we do this with statistics.
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