Quick Takes: Calculators in the Classroom

Each Quick Take explores one important issue concerning the reform of mathematics and science education. Schools may use Quick Takes to communicate with their important audiences: parents, other community members, the media, and any other groups the school thinks might need information about their work. This March 1998 edition explores the use of calculators in the mathematics classroom. While some people think that children should be taught to use calculators from the time they enter school, others fear that learning to use calculators will rob children of the ability to do mental calculations. Both sides of this debate have some merit; so let's look at some of the points raised.

Quick Takes editions:

• Improving Mathematics Education: What Can We Learn from International Studies?
• What is the Best Way to Monitor My Child's Progress in Mathematics and Science?
• Calculators in the Classroom
• Tracking Decisions Change Lives