AUM Mathematics Department
Calculator Policy

The general policy concerning the use of calculators in Mathematics courses at AUM is one of moderate conservatism. Calculators should be used to enhance conceptual understanding by minimizing tedious calculations but are in no way a substitute for proficiency in algebraic manipulations.

In accordance with this policy, we have agreed on the following calculator requirements for the various courses taught:

In MATH 0700 (Elementary Algebra) no calculators are allowed on any test.

In MATH 0800 (Intermediate Algebra) use of calculators on tests is left to the discretion of the instructor, but no calculators will be admitted on the final exam.

In MATH 1100 (Finite Mathematics) the use of a graphing calculator may or may not be allowed, depending on your instructor; a scientific calculator is required.

In MATH 1120 (Precalculus Algebra), MATH 1550 (Trigonometry) and MATH 1150
(Precalculus Algebra & Trigonometry) having a graphing calculator may give you a slight edge, and is to be strongly recommended if you need (or want) to take MATH 1510 (Survey of Calculus) or MATH 1610 (Calculus I) as in both these courses graphing calculators are required and you are assumed to be familiar with its basic features. The precalculus text introduces the use of this technology step by step and will make it so much easier for you to master some of its additional capabilities in Calculus.

Which graphing calculator should you buy?

We strongly recommend the TI-84 (TI-83 or TI-82). The TI-86 is also quite compatible. You can assume that your instructor is familiar with the Texas Instruments products, but not necessarily with other brands of graphing calculators. Whatever calculator you decide to use, make sure you have an owner’s manual. Graphing calculators featuring a CAS (e.g. TI-89 or the TI-92) are not allowed.

I have never used a graphing calculator before and want to start out in Calculus - what now?

Although most students just leaving high school are familiar with the use of this technology, there are always some returning students or international students who have never been exposed to it before. Don’t feel discouraged. Your instructor will be happy to show you the basics. There is also a wide variety of tutorials and freestanding texts available. An excellent resource for TI products is the TI Education Portal which features an extensive bibliography. In addition many textbook companies, including Brooks/Cole, also offer tutorials on their websites.