USAFA Calculator

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aglages

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My son has recently lost (had stolen?) his Ti-89 calculator. Because he is paying for the replacement he would like to know which model of calculator the USAFA issues to cadets and/or if he is allowed to use his own. I read a thread that indicated the USNA issues the Texas Instruments Voyage 200 and gives their plebes a credit if they bring this model of calculator with them. If the USAFA has the same policy it might not be a bad idea to get some familiarity with the model calculator he will be using next year...especially since he has to purchase another one anyway. Anyone know what calculator the USAFA issues and whether cadets are allowed to use other models?
Thanks.
 
For core classes, cadets have to use the issued scientific calculator. Some higher level classes allow graphing calculators, but I don't know which ones they like.
 
They issue everyone the "honorlator" which is a TI-30XII2, a basic scientific calculator. They do this so people can't cheat with using calculators like TI-89 that can be programed with answers. With that said, some classes do let you use calculators like the TI-89. I personally also have a TI-89, and can use it in my Calc 3 class.

Edit: haha Raimius beat me to it.
 
Thanks for the quick responses.
Do you think the USNA issues a more advanced calculator because their problems are more difficult or because their Mids need more "help"? :wink:
 
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aglages said:
Thanks for the quick responses.
Do you think the USNA issues a more advanced calculator because their problems are more difficult or because their Mids need more "help"? :wink:
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Well, I know the army was issuing individuals an abacus. I believe the navy has moved up a little bit. I remember seeing a cadet with a Slide-rule. I think the air force is the only branch that offers electronic calculators. Although, I remember watching an army cadet try and hook a battery to the beads on the abacus. :rofl:
 
aglages said:
Thanks for the quick responses.
Do you think the USNA issues a more advanced calculator because their problems are more difficult or because their Mids need more "help"? :wink:
Click to expand...

It could be that Mids are better trusted to not cheat:)
 
woa kristina, I'm not gonna lie...that was a really low blow. I think we can all agree that USAFA does not tolerate cheating or any other honor violations.
 
Agreed. That was pretty low. Every academy has a few problems here and there, but integrity is always upheld in all services no matter what type of calculator they use.

Later,

Brian
 
I'm not really sure who is joking and who is serious. Hopefully we can agree that the only reason NOT to allow all models of calculators is to avoid the possibility of cheating. Perhaps the USNA believes that each of their mids should use the best possible tools to accomplish their tasks while the USAFA wants to know that their cadets are able to accomplish the same tasks without relying on as much technology. Either method gets the job done.

Does anyone know which of the following calculators is issued by the USAFA?
http://www.amazon.com/Texas-Instruments-30XSMV-BK-Calculator/dp/B000PDFQ6K/ref=cm_cr_pr_sims_t
http://www.amazon.com/Texas-Instruments-TI-30X-Scientific-Calculator/dp/B00000JBNX
The first is the newer model of the second.
Thanks.
 
We were issued the second one and is the current standard for most core classes.

Later,

Brian
 
aglages said:
Thanks Bsa07eagle!

Amazing the difference between the USNA and the USAFA.

The USAFA issues a $13.00 calculator:
http://www.amazon.com/Texas-Instruments-TI-30X-Scientific-Calculator/dp/B00000JBNX

And the USNA issues a $184.00 calculator:
http://www.amazon.com/Texas-Instrum...TF8&coliid=I1L9VX892RQDS2&colid=16IJ9UEIZ8SMK

Hopefully both SAs issue similar quality/featured computers.
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Aw, but issuing still means they pay for it. So USAFA cadets are not spending an additional $171 on a calculator and getting just as good (and I've always said better!) education. :D All while putting that money towards something else....better food?
 
I think it should be noted.

My DD, who attends an Ivy League school as a sophomore this year called me just after her first classes last year and asked me to send her an old calculator. Turns out, she could not use the TI-89 that she took to school in her science classes and needed her old calculator. The same calculator that her brother uses at USAFA.

Also worth noting. As hornet said. You new parents need to get over the idea that USAFA issues things. Sure, they issue them, but your cadets pay for all of it out of their own money. So every penny they save is a penny they can spend on something they really want.

My DS had no trouble getting through all his math and science classes using the calculator they provided.
 
bandit said:
My DS had no trouble getting through all his math and science classes using the calculator they provided.
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Thank you for this information...it is helpful.
I do understand that the cadets at the USAFA are on the payroll deduction plan for many (most) of the things they are issued...but thanks for the reminder.
 
Eberlz said:
So getting a TI-Nspire, would be a waste?

http://education.ti.com/educationportal/sites/US/productDetail/us_nspire_cas.html

I am a senior in hs, and has had multiple teachers recommend getting one for college.
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I would not get the npsire! It looks nice, but if you want a nice calculator, go cheaper with the Ti-89. It's more than enough power and a better price!

Keep in mind, most upper level math and science courses allow (and recommend) a T-83/89 calculator. I loved my Ti-89 after 4-dig year. Even some lower level allow it too. Depending on the course/course director/teacher. Most will say, "you're on your honor not to program answers into it." Which was enough for most of us!

and buffalo, I was always partial to the Jamba Juice down on Woodman and Academy. :D Or noodles across the street on the other corner!
 
Then, there are computerized programs which can do a whole lot!
When I got into Calc 3, we went straight to a computer program for all our graphing. Colorized 3D graphs? No problem!
 
hornetguy said:
and buffalo, I was always partial to the Jamba Juice down on Woodman and Academy. :D Or noodles across the street on the other corner!
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Well I can't blame you but until Mitch's starts offering Jamba Juce or Noodles 'n Company, their freshly brewed Starbucks coffee will have to do.
 
buffalo said:
Well I can't blame you but until Mitch's starts offering Jamba Juce or Noodles 'n Company, their freshly brewed Starbucks coffee will have to do.
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Wait wait, I must be misunderstanding (or missing some sarcasm). Mitch's has Starbucks?! When did this happen? Or are you talking about the "starbucks" in A-hall?
 
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