Calculator dependency and operations with exponents in an introductory college mathematics class.

Abstract

This research explores students’ dependency on calculators particularly with exponents. Recently, students have become increasingly technology-dependent: cell phones, iPods, even calculators. It is hypothesized in this research that students will be reliant on calculators. In this study, two groups of students were given an assessment twice, once with and once without access to a calculator; the order of calculator access was changed with the groups. The students averaged better with access to the calculator, but not significantly better. In conclusion, calculators should be used limitedly in the classroom.