I do wonder why your college is switching from "tech math" to
the intermediate algebra/trig course?
Rob Kimball
> I am hoping that I can enlist your help with a problem
> that has occurred at Terra.
>
> Terra is switching its math requirement from
> Tech Math I, II, and II and Data Math I and II
> to Intermediate Algebra I and II and an Intermediate
> Geometry/Trig course. For the past 2 or 3 years
> the TI-85 has been recommended in the Tech Math
> courses. The math department will now require the
> use of the TI-85 in the new courses. This is being
> met with resistance from the engineering department.
> The resistance is not the fact that the engineering
> students are no longer taking tech math but rather,
> that the students will be required to purchase a TI-85.
>
> There are two issues. One is affordability. The
> cost of a TI-85 is about $100. There is a question
> about whether or not students can afford this cost.
> Students on financial aid can use aid monies to
> purchase a TI-85, however, students not on financial
> aid may have a problem. Some colleges have set up a
> loan program to allieviate this problem. Are you aware
> of any existing programs?
>
> The other issue is: Do the students really need a
> graphing calculator? Won't a TI-30 do?
>
> I would appreciate your comments on these issues as soon as possible.
>
> If you could put this email out on your list serve I would very much
> appreciate it.
>
> Thank you.
>
> Nancy J. Sattler
> Terra Community College
> 2830 Napoleon Road
> Fremont, OH 43420
> phone: 419-334-8400, ext. 179
> fax: 419-334-9414
> email: nsattler@terra.cc.oh.us
>