Order of Operations: Do Business Students Understand the Correct Order?

Abstract

Many university students enrolled in quantitative methods and basic computer programming courses do not understand the proper order of precedence that should be applied to mathematical operations. Thus, many professors are compelled to reteach the proper order of operations before embarking on the initial coursework. In this study, the researchers surveyed over 300 primarily nonfreshman business school students at two regional universities to determine the extent of this lack of understanding. Results show that one third of the respondents incorrectly applied the order of operations.