Statement: Should university examination bodies permit calculators in all exams? Arguments: I. No. Students must practice manual calculation to cement core concepts. II. Yes. With computers everywhere, manual calculation is unnecessary. Choose the option that best identifies the strong argument(s).

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: if only Arguments I is strong

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Assessment should test understanding, not just tool use. Calculator policy depends on learning outcomes for each course.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Foundations (arithmetic, algebra manipulation) are best verified manually.
  • Advanced courses may allow calculators when focus is modeling/interpretation.


Concept / Approach:
We are judging a blanket permission policy. Strong arguments should reflect pedagogy.



Step-by-Step Solution:
I emphasizes conceptual mastery via manual practice. This is pedagogically sound for many foundational evaluations. Strong.II overgeneralizes: ubiquity of computers does not remove the need to assess core skills. Weak as a blanket reason.



Verification / Alternative check:
Balanced policy: allow calculators selectively; thus I is stronger against universal permission.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
II alone, either, both, or neither misclassify strengths.



Common Pitfalls:
Equating tool availability with educational need.



Final Answer:
if only Arguments I is strong

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