Do away with all tests!

[k4sb at avana.net]

Tom, you are perfectly entitled to your opinions. However, I would like to point 
out that all of us had to take math in HS, whether we ever use it or not. I'd
also like to say that when I was at UNC, you were required to take English
Literature....I went into that class on Chaucer hating the thought. I wound up
taking 3 more after that.

73,

Ed

P.S. I still won't eat English peas!!!!

-------------------------------------
Name: ed sleight
E-mail: k4sb at avana.net
Date: 8/22/96
Time: 2:29:35 AM

This message was sent by Chameleon 
-------------------------------------


>From desmith at Telalink.Net (Doug Smith)  Thu Aug 22 08:59:24 1996
From: desmith at Telalink.Net (Doug Smith) (Doug Smith)
Date: Thu, 22 Aug 1996 02:59:24 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: CW & HF Licensing
Message-ID: <199608220759.CAA25484 at eve.telalink.net>

(various stuff deleted)
>Several suggestions about simplifying further to three classes...one

>If there were frequency privileges to be restricted, I'd pick 20-meters

>Very useful commentary...
True!

First, I suggest a move to reserve certain band segments for type A1
emission only.  I propose 1800-1835, 3500-3575, 7000-7060, 10100-10110,
14000-14060, 18068-18085, 21000-21075, 24890-24910, and 28000-28075 for only
A1 emission, and only at speeds of 75wpm or less.  Whether we go ahead with
no-code HF or not, these moves would prevent digital modes (and the waste of
HF packet...) from making CW operation impossible.  

Then, how about an "elective" system of examinations?  

All applicants would be required to pass a basic exam on regulations
relevant to all license classes, and another one on regulations relevant to
the specific class they're applying for.  Applicants for Advanced would also
have to pass a 5wpm Morse test and basic tests on operating procedures and
theory; applicants for Extra would need 13wpm Morse and an intermediate test
on operating & theory.

Beyond those minimum requirements, all applicants would also have to pass
their choice of some minimum number of *elective* exams from a list.
Available subjects might include "intermediate HF operating techniques",
"basic data-mode technology", "advanced VHF communication technology", etc..  

So, a computer whiz might earn a General with no Morse by passing electives
on advanced VHF communications and advanced data modes.  Or, a "technically
challenged" operator who's good at the code might earn the same license by
passing 20wpm Morse and intermediate HF operating.  

I propose no changes in privileges per license class.  (again, except for
prohibiting F1 emission at the bottom of the bands)

No-code HF isn't a "dumbing down" if we toughen the written exam at the same
time.  It *CAN* be done; let's work to shape this constructively before the
issue snowballs beyond anyone's control...

73 Doug W9WI



Douglas E. Smith  W9WI/4 		desmith at Telalink.net
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