Math rage

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Is it just me or does anyone else find the math classes you have to take like algebra completely and totally a waste of time and money? I asked a RN the other day if she had ever needed to factor a polynomial at work, and she chuckled and said no. I just find myself completely and utterly disenfranchised with the whole college system right now. *end rant*

Specializes in LTC Rehab Med/Surg.

Back in the day, no math was required in the program I attended.

I had to pass a placement test, but that was it.

I'll admit that was part of the attraction to the nursing program.

When I had to decide on a second career, the only one that didn't involve math classes was nursing. How funny is that?

Honestly, if I had to master what todays students have to master, I probably wouldn't be a nurse.

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The graphs posted above were part of my A&P class and will surely be part of nursing school. Having the analytical skills gained through taking math classes will help you understand those graphs. You'll see how one variable effects the other and be able to deduce a correlation between the variables. You'll then be able to conceptualize and visualize what is going on in the body. This is important in the cardiovascular system and other systems as well. Many people struggle with CO (cardiac output) and Frank-Starlings law of the capillaries/heart.

I think a lot of the problem is people go in to a math class saying "I hate math." This negative attitude sets the stage for the entire course and I believe it is the reason some people fail. I also realize some people don't grasp the concepts as quickly as others but with so many resources available there is no reason to fail a math course. Resources: tutors, youtube, khan academy, internet calculators, supplemental workbooks, etc.

No one should let a math class stand in the way of his or her goals. Go in with a positive attitude and realize math is involved in everything you do. A better understanding of math provides you a better understanding of the world. I think of math classes kind of like "strength training" for your brain.

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While Re-reading all these posts, I would have never realized that so many people had opinions about algebra. I never thought that I would get this many responses.

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Taking math at 38 going on 39 and four kids in...WOW!! I am considering just not going to take any classes if I have to deal this much with math, but maybe it's the challenge in me that wants this, I hope I do well!! (I still think the math is a waste of time, especially all the hubbub with algebra and stuff) , hey hope i don't sound dumb!! lol

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....(I still think the math is a waste of time, especially all the hubbub with algebra and stuff) , hey hope i don't sound dumb!! lol

Careful with that, some people love to flame about that. Just look at some of the previous posts.

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Specializes in critcal care, CRNA.

Careful with that, some people love to flame about that. Just look at some of the previous posts.

I had someone argue with me about how is was important that I had to take American history 1&2 in order to be a goo nurse.

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I had someone argue with me about how is was important that I had to take American history 1&2 in order to be a goo nurse.

I'm taking American History I this semester. I took American History II already. Oh we'll, good thing I like history :-)

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I found a site on-line called Mathway.Com .... It cost me 20 something bucks to use the program for 3 months, but it saved my bacon when I took Algebra. You enter in a question and it not only spits out an answer, it shows you step by step how to work the equation. I got an "A" thanks to this program.

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I love math, so having to take it is a non-issue for me. I also see the long term benefits. Understanding basic algebra really helps with Chemistry. My chem prof said her biggest fear is getting older, going to the hospital and having one of her past students who only got a C in her class, because they couldn't master the math of it all, having to care for her! Haha

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Specializes in Hospice.
Just curious what do you think those are BrandonLPN?

I'll answer that. How about Western Civ? ARRRGGGHHHHH :mad:

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Specializes in Hospice.
Taking math at 38 going on 39 and four kids in...WOW!! I am considering just not going to take any classes if I have to deal this much with math, but maybe it's the challenge in me that wants this, I hope I do well!! (I still think the math is a waste of time, especially all the hubbub with algebra and stuff) , hey hope i don't sound dumb!! lol

It's harder the older you get if you didn't really get it in high school (like me!). I'm 49 and starting the RN program next month, and somehow this math hater made an A in Math for Allied Health, so if I can do it so can you. Hell, if I can do it, so can anyone! However, as OP said, I don't have to like it, and it's not likely I ever will. English, on the other hand....... :yes:

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Soo not a huge math fan. I decided to try harder when I was told that math encourages critical thinking skills. Now I try harder, but I'm only getting a 90% and I'm killing mysef to do that!

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