For someone with a strong aversion to math, I’ve certainly invested in an excessive number of Texas Instruments calculators throughout my life—at least four or five. My journey began in high school, continued through college, and even included an unexpected period as a math tutor. I seemed to acquire a new one every couple of years due to loss or theft, amounting to a considerable sum that I now wish I could recoup. If only I could plot that $500 on my TI-83; had I invested it in a mutual fund back in 1988, it would have significantly appreciated. But honestly, I don’t need a calculator to tell me that.
This brings me to the pressing question: Why are we still purchasing TI-83 calculators? These devices were the go-to for us as students, and now, two decades later, we are preparing to buy them for our own children. In an era where I can simply search “compound interest” online and receive instant calculations for free, why would I spend $140 on outdated technology? With computers now small enough to fit in a piece of jewelry, why are students still required to carry around a calculator the size of a cookbook? Essentially, why does Texas Instruments maintain such a stronghold over the graphing calculator market?
The reality is that Texas Instruments does have a notable monopoly on graphing calculators. As reported by Alex Morgan for Mic, the company’s dominance is evident in the American education system, which has become somewhat addicted to its products. TI calculators have been so prevalent for so long that they’ve become ingrained in the fabric of math instruction in the U.S. Additionally, textbooks produced by major publishers often feature illustrations of TI calculators, complicating any transition to newer technologies.
A significant factor binding us—and our children—to Texas Instruments is standardized testing. For instance, students can only use calculators from an approved list during the SATs. While this is purportedly to prevent cheating and maintain integrity, I can attest from my tutoring experience that students often managed to program their TI-83s with formulas and notes. Morgan also highlights that TI employs a network of educators trained to use its calculators, effectively acting as advocates for the brand. The company invests heavily in marketing at educational conferences, reinforcing its market dominance. During the 2013-2014 academic year, Texas Instruments accounted for a staggering 93% of all graphing calculators sold in the U.S. It’s estimated that the company produces these calculators for merely $15 to $20, yielding a profit margin exceeding 50%, making them one of TI’s most lucrative products.
While there are more affordable alternatives—like Casio calculators priced at around $50—a Pennsylvania math teacher noted, “The difference between TI and Casio? Marketing.” Unfortunately, this pricing issue poses a significant challenge for families struggling to meet basic needs. Requiring students to purchase a bulky, outdated, and unnecessary tool for math class and standardized tests can create additional hurdles. Morgan points out that the collaboration between Texas Instruments, testing organizations, and educational institutions reinforces the achievement gap between affluent students and those from less privileged backgrounds.
On a positive note, there are now free apps that are user-friendly and gaining traction in classrooms. However, I personally believe that I grasped mathematical concepts better when I worked them out by hand on paper. I found my students learned more effectively that way, too. When the time comes, I plan to guide my own children through math using No. 2 pencils and graph paper. And if they want to experience vintage technology, they can always listen to music on my old Sony Walkman.
In summary, the enduring reliance on the TI-83 calculator raises important questions about educational practices and technology’s role in learning. As we navigate these challenges, exploring alternative tools and methods may ultimately enhance our children’s educational experiences. For more information on fertility treatments and home insemination techniques, check out this excellent resource.
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