"Thomas Horne" wrote in message
nk.net...
Dee Flint wrote:
wrote in message
oups.com...
On Mar 4, 10:09 am, "Dee Flint" wrote:

[snip]

All of amateur radio is fine for the casual operator.


Ok then, let's do the same as some typical European countries. Only one
license class and every one takes the equivalent of the Extra class
written exam. Prior to the no code change, they did not have entry level
licenses. All licenses took the same written (basically equivalent to our
Extra written) and those who passed code got everything while those who
didn't were VHF/UHF only. When the code was dropped, they folded the two
groups into one. No need to haul out the many variations that existed.
While some countries did have an entry license with a simpler written
there were others who didn't. In some countries, you had to take formal
classes and you were not allowed to take the test if you had just studied
on your own.

Dee, N8UZE

Dee
Are you saying you see that last as a positive thing? It would certainly
be good for the technical education industry but does that make it a good
thing for amateur radio.


Not necessarily. I was trying to make the point that people should be
careful what they wish for. It may come with unintended consequences. I'm
perfectly satisfied with the self study approach and the voluntary classes
that some groups sponsor.

If a formal course were a requirement then I imagine that it would be
easier to find one. I'd love to find a formal class for the extra class
material. I'd even be happy with a referral to a respectable
correspondence or on line course. Anyone have any suggestions along those
lines.
--

Too bad you are not in my area. The club just coaxed me into doing one
again this year for the Extra. I don't know of any correspondence or on
line classes.

Since you will probably be going the self study route if/when you choose to
upgrade, I have the following recommendations:
1. DON'T RUSH. There's a lot of material so if you rush through it, you'll
have a hard time remembering it as it will be in your short term memory
rather than your long term memory.
2. Periodically review the parts you've already studied. It's a long haul
and by the time you get to the end, you might forget what you learned in the
beginning.
3. For studying and learning the material use something that explains it in
detail like the ARRL extra class license manual.
4. Review use something with the questions, answers and brief explanations
like the W5YI question and answer manual
5. Don't hesitate at buying the two separate books. It's worth it. The
ARRL book has too many words and the W5YI is too brief. Using the former
for the initial study and reference and using the latter for review worked
well for my students.
6. Find someone (perhaps through your local club) who would be willing to
answer questions and clarify hard parts as you go along.

Dee, N8UZE