Final answer:
Collapsing an outline to show subtotals refers to minimizing a detailed data set to display only the summary rows in a data analysis context. It emphasizes the importance of context for truly understanding the significance of mathematical operations beyond just computing a number.
Step-by-step explanation:
To "collapse the entire outline to show just the subtotals" in a spreadsheet or data analysis context means to minimize the view to only show the aggregated data points, typically by hiding the individual line items that contribute to those totals. This is often done in programs like Microsoft Excel or other data analysis tools where details can be expanded or collapsed. When you have a complex set of data that includes multiple levels of detail, you can use the outlining feature to group data together and then collapse the groups to a higher level to view only the subtotal or summary rows.
The metaphor of math being like the airplane that delivers the skydiver to the jump serves to highlight the importance of understanding context in mathematical problems. The algorithm or operations are necessary, but the real learning and insight come from engaging with the context of the problem. Without this, the student may be focusing solely on obtaining a numerical answer without really understanding the deeper application and significance of what they are calculating.