Dave wrote:
wrote:
SNIPPED
Removing the code requirement at this late date would do little to
increase the number of hams applying for a license. At one time,
possibly 30 years ago it would have made sense to replace the code test
with one that emphasizes skills that actually have a use in the real
world. Sadly, I think that there is little that can be done to attract
younger hams into the hobby. There are just too many license-free ways
of communicating with people from around the world.
Amateur Radio is about much more than "communicating with people from around the
world".
Amateur Radio is about LEARNING !!! LEARNING some physics, learning about
sunspots, learning about antennas, learning about propagation, learning about
some electronics, learning about digital communication techniques, learning
about VHF propagation, learning about microwaves, learning about wide band tv
systems, learning about narrow band tv systems, learning about ... [you complete
the phrase].
If you just want to talk around the world, use CB. If you just want to talk
around town, use FRS. If you want to LEARN about radio become an Amateur Radio
operator [make a commitment to LEARN].
I agree - learning something about amateur radio is a requirement for
passing the test. The real question is what kinds of knowlege about
amateur radio should be required of prospective hams before giving them
a license. It would seem to me that testing a prospective ham for
knowlege of how radios operate, how to set up a station properly and
how to operate the equipment safely would be a primary concern. Next
the ham should be able to demonstrate an ability to use the equipment
to communicate in an efficient and courteous manner in a mode that is
widely used. Voice is hands down the most frequently used mode of
communication. Additionally, a knowlege of how to communicate via
radio using voice would be a big help when trying to make contact
during an emergency with professional rescue groups. Having the
prospective ham learn morse code would not provide him with a skill
that has any real world use.