02-23-2010, 08:03 PM
Hi,
Also, it depends on the calculator you allow. I have an HP48GX. It pretty much has the whole sophomore college physics curriculum built in. Learning to solve problems is little more than learning which package to use and what constants to enter. This may lead to good grades, but it hardly leads to understanding the underlying concepts.
When actually using those fields, then a calculator or a computer should be used. Preferably three times. By three different people. Who don't like each other. That's how you keep bridges from collapsing.;)
--Pete
Quote:Calculators in math classes are stupid stupid stupid stupid.Yep.
Quote: Calculators in physics, engineering, chemistry classes are a good idea.Depends. I had a graduate adviser that told me to "Estimate the answer using your physical intuition, then actually calculate it. Use the result to improve your physical intuition." The ability to do rough calculations in my head made it possible to follow his advice, which in turn often lead to good ideas or helped me to avoid bad ones. I doubt this would have happened had I used calculators throughout my school years.
Also, it depends on the calculator you allow. I have an HP48GX. It pretty much has the whole sophomore college physics curriculum built in. Learning to solve problems is little more than learning which package to use and what constants to enter. This may lead to good grades, but it hardly leads to understanding the underlying concepts.
When actually using those fields, then a calculator or a computer should be used. Preferably three times. By three different people. Who don't like each other. That's how you keep bridges from collapsing.;)
--Pete
How big was the aquarium in Noah's ark?