For someone who isn’t particularly fond of mathematics, I’ve ended up purchasing a surprising number of Texas Instruments calculators throughout my life—at least four or five, starting from high school, continuing into college, and even functioning as a math tutor. Every couple of years, I found myself buying a new one after misplacing or having one stolen. When I tally up that expense, I’d certainly like a refund. If only I could graph the total cost on my TI-83: had I invested that $500 in a mutual fund back in 1988, I’d have accumulated a significant sum by now. But honestly, I don’t need a calculator to tell me that.
This brings me to a pressing question: why are we still purchasing TI-83 calculators? We bought them as teenagers, and now we’re preparing to buy them for our children two decades later. With the ability to Google “compound interest” and receive instant calculations online for free, why should I spend $140 on outdated technology? In an era when computers can be compacted into the size of a nose stud, why do students have to carry around a device the size of a cookbook? Essentially, why does Texas Instruments maintain a stranglehold on the graphing calculator market?
The reality is that they do hold a significant monopoly. As Jack Thompson reported for Mic, Texas Instruments has become a dominant force in high school mathematics. The U.S. education system has developed an addiction to their products, so much so that TI calculators have become ingrained in math instruction. Furthermore, Thompson notes that Pearson textbooks prominently feature TI calculators, making it challenging to transition students to newer technologies.
A major factor that keeps us—and our children—attached to Texas Instruments is the realm of standardized testing. Only certain calculators are permissible during exams like the SATs. While this rule may be intended to curb cheating and internet access, I can attest from my tutoring experience that students still found ways to program their TI-83s with essential formulas and notes.
Thompson indicates that TI employs a legion of educators who are trained to promote TI calculators. These educators act as advocates for the brand, and the company even sets up large booths at educational conferences. He elaborates: “This profitable technology monopoly is nearly unmatched. In the 2013–2014 school year, Texas Instruments accounted for 93% of all graphing calculators sold in the U.S. Estimates suggest that TI manufactures these calculators for $15 to $20 each while maintaining a profit margin exceeding 50%, making them one of the company’s most lucrative products.”
It is important to note there are cheaper alternatives. For instance, Casio offers a graphing calculator for around $50. As one Pennsylvania math teacher remarked, “The difference between TI and Casio? Marketing.”
This situation may not pose a problem for families who can afford the expensive calculator, but it certainly presents challenges for those struggling financially. Requiring students to purchase an oversized, outdated tool that is still the primary means of instruction in math classes and on standardized tests can exacerbate their difficulties. Thompson points out, “The collaboration between Texas Instruments, testing organizations, compliant educators, and textbook publishers is widening the achievement gap between affluent students and their less privileged peers.”
On a positive note, there are now free applications that are gaining traction in classrooms and are easier to use than traditional calculators. However, I believe I learned math more effectively when I worked it out by hand with pencil and paper. My students seemed to grasp concepts better that way too. When the time comes, I plan to assist my children with No. 2 pencils and graph paper. If they seek a taste of retro technology, they can always listen to a cassette on my Sony Walkman.
In summary, while the TI-83 calculator remains a staple in education, its dominance raises significant concerns about accessibility, affordability, and the quality of math instruction. As we navigate this landscape, exploring alternative tools and methods may be essential for fostering a more equitable learning environment.
For more information on educational resources and home insemination techniques, you can check out this excellent resource. If you’re interested in at-home options for insemination, consider visiting Cryobaby’s Insemination Kit for more details. Additionally, learn more about our policies here.