Comment Calculators for Basic Mathematics (Score 1) 538
While I don't really agree with delaying computer usage until high school, I can certainly understand a backlash against techno-overkill.
Take calculators for example. I was exposed to calculators but was NEVER allowed to use them for homework until advanced math in high school - long after I had learned basic math. Now, I see my 3rd grace niece using a calculator given to her by the school for her homework and tests. When I ask her if they teach her the multiplication tables, she says "we just use the calculator".
What a gross misuse of technology! The kids need to learn basic math so symbolic algebra makes sense, so trigonometry makes sense, so calculus makes sense... etc.
Without a solid foundation, things later on will be much more difficult to learn.
I think the school in Oregon had this very thing in mind in limiting computer exposure, but they also need to remember that a lot of people who never received any exposure to computers until late in high school are also suffering in the job market.
Take calculators for example. I was exposed to calculators but was NEVER allowed to use them for homework until advanced math in high school - long after I had learned basic math. Now, I see my 3rd grace niece using a calculator given to her by the school for her homework and tests. When I ask her if they teach her the multiplication tables, she says "we just use the calculator".
What a gross misuse of technology! The kids need to learn basic math so symbolic algebra makes sense, so trigonometry makes sense, so calculus makes sense... etc.
Without a solid foundation, things later on will be much more difficult to learn.
I think the school in Oregon had this very thing in mind in limiting computer exposure, but they also need to remember that a lot of people who never received any exposure to computers until late in high school are also suffering in the job market.
