When Tools Steal Thinking: Rethinking Technology Use in Math

In this episode, we dig into the tricky question every math teacher faces: When is a calculator a helpful tool—and when does it actually rob students of valuable mathematical thinking?

Yvette shares a personal story about a conversation with her son on whether he should use a calculator for an upcoming test. The discussion quickly expanded: is a lower score worth it if it means students are pushing their math brains harder? Jon and Kyle weigh in on the role of calculators and AI in classrooms—acknowledging that sometimes these tools provide necessary accommodations, but other times they shortcut the very cognitive work that builds fluency, number sense, and problem-solving stamina.

Together, we unpack:

• The difference between appropriate accommodations and missed opportunities.
• Why productive struggle and mental math strengthen students’ “math muscles.”
• How to help students and families navigate the balance between tools and thinking.
• Parallels between calculators and AI—when they accelerate learning, and when they rob students of meaningful connections.

This is not a call to ban calculators—but a reminder that timing, context, and intention matter.

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Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units 

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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.