RPN calcs should be a teacher’s recommendation

[Matt Agajanian]

(11-09-2022 06:29 PM)Maximilian Hohmann Wrote:  Hello!

(11-08-2022 12:48 AM)Matt Agajanian Wrote:  Since order of operations is the foundation of mathematics, I’d think that since it’s so vital, teachers would strongly recommend RPN calculators because it forces the students to understand how order of operations works.

I don't agree. Teachers shoud not recommend any type of calculator and even less build their teaching around calculators. Instead, they should teach mathematics and calculus as if there was no calculator at all. Once the students have understood the basics and underlying rules they can use whatever calculator they want. It will make no difference. By now, a whole generation was taught mathematics without RPN calculators. The aircraft and bridges and sykscrapers they design (if engineering is their chosen profession) seem to work well, so the lack of RPN tuition at school does not seem to have any adverse effect!

Regards
Max

At 56, I can say I fall for into your generation. Yes, in my math classes, you had to use your noggin. And I do agree with your point. I thought there would be a way this new generation could use calculators as a secondary or tertiary tool since they need to put their brain in gear first.