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I think that a lot of the math we learn in middle and high school is not that useful. For example, when was the last time I used the quadratic equation, or had
by jderick 14y ago
I think that a lot of the math we learn in middle and high school is not that useful. For example, when was the last time I used the quadratic equation, or had to calculate a derivative using the chain rule, or had to do a geometric proof of any kind.
Personally I think learning to program is far more useful than any of those skills and yet it is usually presented as an 'elective' course in most schools.
Not to say that I don't appreciate math, but if we look at cost vs benefit, I think our current curriculum could be updated somewhat. Maybe some math classes could be offered as 'electives'. Of course, there were other less useful classes I was required to take as well.
- TeMPOraL 14y ago> when was the last time I used the quadratic equation Actually, quadratic equation might be one of the most important things in high school maths - lots of practical problems, especially involving optimization, tend to be reduced to (or approximated by) quadratic equation.