What do you mean, "cannot do basic arithmetic, but ... using a calculator
to do the arithmetic"? It seems to me using a calculator to do the
arithmetic is "doing the arithmetic." And, if there was a comparable
technology for writing a proper sentence, then students should be able to
use that technology to meet English requirements. I would be happy to
consider a student who does algebra with a calculator for the arithmetic as
qualified (mathematically) for most college degrees. As others have
pointed out, doing arithmetic with a calculator requires some understanding
of arithmetic.
Jerry Thornhill
jerry_thornhill@sw.cc.va.us
Southwest Virginia Community College
Richlands, VA
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