On our first dimensional analysis exam coming up, our instructor says we won't be allowed to use our own personal calculators because we could "store the conversions in it"?!
Here's the problem with that: cheap, ****** calculators (which i'm sure is what will be used) have a difficult time with registering keys 100% of the time.
My TI-30X IIS has never had such a problem.
There's a reset button on the calculator. If I demonstrate that I've reset the calculator before taking the test, is it fair for her to prohibit me from using it?
I don't have a problem with using a basic calculator, but the sensitivity problem is actually a real issue. If I knew the calcs we're given were quality ones that have near perfect key registration (as my TI does), I wouldn't be worried. Of course, there's no way for me to ensure this.
Specializes in Gerontology RN-BC and FNP MSN student.
Who uses calculators in the real world anyways? :what:I always want to see how I arrive at a calculation and will know there is less chance of an error if I see every step on paper in front of me.
Coming from a math background, I definitely understand your complaint. Scientific or graphing calculators (the good ones anyway) are fast, smooth & accurate. And when you've used the same calculator for years in your math studies, you become set in your ways :) I do anyway!
The cheap $1 calculators are easier to make an input mistake on, but the bottom line is - be careful, suck it up & deal with it :) And always check your answers. It's not worth worrying that much about to complain to anyone.
HappyWife77, BSN, RN
739 Posts
Who uses calculators in the real world anyways? :what:I always want to see how I arrive at a calculation and will know there is less chance of an error if I see every step on paper in front of me.