We will using Matlab in the computer labs, but you will not always have a computer at hand. A graphing calculator is a portable tool and each student should have one available.  A calculator can be a useful not only to save time and check arithmetic, but also to do some calculations and explorations which would not have been manageable 20 years ago.

However, you should not become overly dependent on your calculator.  There are basic skills in calculus which we believe you should be able to carry out "by hand."  Therefore some quizzes, tests, or parts of tests may be designated as "no calculators allowed."

Any graphing calculator is acceptable for your personal use in study and on homework assignments.  However, some fancier calculators contain a "computer algebra system" (CAS) that allows them to perform symbolic manipulations. Calculators containing a CAS (for example, the TI-89, TI-92, Casio FX2, HP-48 and HP-49) are not allowed at quizzes and exams.  Using one falls into the category of exam cheating and will be referred to the Academic Integrity Committee. Therefore it's wise not to become dependent on a CAS while studying.

I have a TI-83 and know how to use it for the purposes of this course. If you are using a different graphing calculator, you will need to figure out how it works on your own.

You should always bring your calculator to your discussion section. Whether calculators are allowed at weekly quizzes may vary from week to week. If I decide to exclude calculators on a particular test, you will be warned in advance.