CASIO Graph Lite and Graph Math+

[carey]

(03-02-2024 09:43 AM)Csaba Tizedes Wrote:  So, this means CW was a crap - and they know.

While discussed in other threads, here and here, since brought up again, I share neither quoted opinion. I find the CW a greatly improved $20 calculator with much tested educational research that went into its development, and Casio seems quite proud of it. The new enhanced models seem more a sign of success of the platform than failure. The CW (and the new models that build upon it) adopt a more consistent and more standard math convention approach to calculating than its predecessors.

Over-hyped CW criticisms:
1) Multi-statement removal. A multi-statement was a calculator method that was not part of standard math notation. The CW can solve the same math problems for which multi-statements were used, often more elegantly. Note also that CW's composite functions, which are part of standard math notation, are a powerful tool that can solve some math problems at a higher level of abstraction than some previous methods. If one keeps in mind that the CW aims to use standard math notation to solve problems that otherwise would require programming methods e.g., using Σ to reduce the need for loops and counters, the CW becomes more understandable.
2) Removal of buttons (e.g., S<->D, Calc, etc.). Same functionality in CW, but organized, often with more options.
3) But those menus! This is a long-standing calculator debate (e.g., 32S vs 32Sii). The argument of slower operation due to menus doesn't seem to apply to the CW, because, not only are CW menus shallow, but CW key travel is so shallow that it's closer to the zero travel, near instantaneous key press on a touchscreen than to the key travel on, say, HP's classic buttons (where each key press is a slow, deliberate, and momentous event! :) and is offset by having more options.

(03-02-2024 09:43 AM)Csaba Tizedes Wrote:  I hope they realize the TI's concept the only feasible solution, every application connected together, stupid MODEs removed

Nope, modes are still there! Calculators that use modes on the home screen to organize calculator features still usually allow connected functionality in programming mode. Moreover, some modes are interconnected in the CW (e.g., tables and functions). It's interesting that Apps with customized environments, introduced on the HP38g and used on its many successors, including the Prime, are examples of modal behavior that help organize calculator features.

The new Classwiz Graph Lite and Graph Math+ models reduce the need for relatively bulky intermediate level calculators (e.g., Casio CG50, TI-84 CE) for many students. Will the only surviving educational calculator genres become small scientific calculators (w/ and w/o graphics) and flagship graphing calculators?