Who Needs a Fraction When a Decimal Will Do?

     Are fractions obsolete?  Should they be saved for a rainy day (or at least until a student reaches calculus class)?  That is the sentiment of Dennis DeTurck, a highly-regarded professor at the University of Pennsylvania.  In a book to be published within the year, he addresses what he perceives as an outdated aspect of modern mathematics and suggests decimals are the way to go.

     Of course, he garners some heavy criticism.  But it is worth noting that just about the time students are submerged in fractions, many lose interest in math altogether.  Take a look at this article for more information.