Intro to Statistics Dilemma

[Ika]

So I'm taking Intro to Statistics and Probability as a post-secondary course at a local college. After the first day I realized that the class was basically the slacker math class.

Anyway, long story short, we're in the probability distributions section (binomial pdfs, normal curves, etc etc), and I ended up using my TI89 calculator to save time and decrease boredom factor. What I'm wondering is, should I:
1) keep using my calculator, because the class is a joke and I will learn nothing important
2) keep using my calculator, because using z-score tables is just as useless
3) learn to solve the problems the real way (by looking up values in a big z-score chart)

The way I look at it is, either I can plug stuff into my calculator and chug the answer, or do more work and find the real value in a table. Any thoughts or persuasions?

 

[SOSTrooper]

It depends on if the professor allows you to use the TI89 on the test. I would try to learn the real way as well. TI89 can save you time and work, but you should be able to write the steps out for each problem so you can show some work. I would use the TI89 to double check my steps and answers, but not using it to skip everything inbetween for a quick way out.

 

[DaveSimmons]

What is the probability that at least one test will contain questions that must be solved without using the calculator?

 

[rocadelpunk]

learn how to do it and then check on calculator.

This will cover your ass if you made an algebraic mistake. Also, it is very easy to just press the wrong button and then you get 0 pts for showing no work. I'm surprised you get any credit for just having an answer.

 

[Ika]

Originally posted by: DaveSimmons
What is the probability that at least one test will contain questions that must be solved without using the calculator?

None, because the class is a joke, and a night class. I was just wondering if I'd be missing out if I used only the calculator.

 

[Cooler]

Originally posted by: Aflac

Originally posted by: DaveSimmons
What is the probability that at least one test will contain questions that must be solved without using the calculator?

None, because the class is a joke, and a night class. I was just wondering if I'd be missing out if I used only the calculator.

If you are ever going to use it again in the real world learn it. Otherwise use TI 89.

 

[bobdelt]

use the calculator.. its the same thing. you learned how to read charts years ago i'd assume...


im a stats teacher by the way

 

[Ika]

Originally posted by: Cooler

Originally posted by: Aflac

Originally posted by: DaveSimmons
What is the probability that at least one test will contain questions that must be solved without using the calculator?

None, because the class is a joke, and a night class. I was just wondering if I'd be missing out if I used only the calculator.

If you are ever going to use it again in the real world learn it. Otherwise use TI 89.

The problem is, to find the answers to the questions that we're doing, we need to consult a chart of numbers anyway (a big data sheet). I don't see myself carrying a z-score chart around in the real world...