A "dumbed down" calc II book is a textbook that presents material in a simplified or less challenging manner compared to other calc II books. This can be helpful for students who are struggling with the subject or who are new to calculus.
Some students may choose to use a "dumbed down" calc II book because they find the material in regular calc II books too difficult to understand. They may also find that the pace of a regular calc II course is too fast for them and they need more time to grasp the concepts.
One downside to using a "dumbed down" calc II book is that it may not cover all the material that is typically covered in a regular calc II course. This can put students at a disadvantage if they need to take more advanced math courses in the future.
Using a "dumbed down" calc II book may provide a basic understanding of calculus concepts, but it may not prepare students for more advanced courses or real-world applications. It's important for students to challenge themselves and strive for a deeper understanding of the subject.
There is no one right answer to this question as it depends on the individual student's needs and learning style. Some students may benefit from using a "dumbed down" calc II book to build a strong foundation in the subject, while others may thrive with the challenge of a regular calc II book. It's important for students to find the right balance between comprehension and challenge in their calculus studies.