What is the Focus and Emphasis on Calculators in State-Level K-8 Mathematics Curriculum Standards Documents?

Abstract

We conducted our own analysis of official state mathematics curriculum standards documents so that we might understand and describe the extent to which states support use of calculators in elementary and middle school mathematics classes. In particular, we examined messages about calculators conveyed within these documents to school administrators and classroom teachers. In this paper, we report the findings from our analysis, identify contradictions with the Fordham report, and discuss leadership efforts needed to support teachers in their use of calculators.