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 Previous: Surfin': Green Keys and Hams |  Next: League Requests Rule Change to Ease Spread Spectrum Operation |
By Anthony A. Luscre, K8ZT
Contributing Editor
March 19, 2006
New hams are like sponges--ready to absorb the accumulated knowledge of the old timers. In light of the League's new "Hello" campaign, here's a challenge to experienced hams to help new licensees feel wanted and welcome.
Wisdom is Like Electricity
"Wisdom is like electricity," Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote in the 19th century. "There is no permanently wise man, but men capable of wisdom, who, being put into certain company, or other favorable conditions, become wise for a short time, as glasses rubbed acquire electric power for a while."
The key to knowledge is the challenge to accomplish results. In my day job, I often teach people to use complex software programs that have hundreds of features. Unfortunately, some of my trainees think I can open their skulls and pour in my accumulated knowledge, and they will walk away as experts. I find that most people, myself included, are much more successful in learning when one of two situations occur: They have a project that needs to be done, or they are required to teach others.
If you want to learn how to do something, having a project that you are passionate about greatly enhances the learning process. Even more effective is teaching the skill to your peers.
Learning in a Vacuum
Many of you may remember the hours you put into studying to pass or upgrade your Amateur Radio license. Most of us also realize how much of that "knowledge" vanished from our brains, sometimes as soon as we left the testing center.
The concept of "incentive licensing" has already been debated ad nauseam. Whether you loved or hated it, one thing was very clear: Studying material simply to pass a test has very little lasting effect. Take something you really want to do in Amateur Radio, and we see much greater retention of the material you learn to accomplish your goal.
My Challenges to You
During the rest of this year I challenge you to:
Don't worry. I have some ideas to get you started.
Learn Something New
The best way is to first identify a new ham radio activity or skill you would like to try: I've mentioned many examples in my previous columns. These include trying a new operating mode or band, building a rig or accessory, experimenting with new antenna designs, preparing yourself for emergency communication by taking the ARRL Amateur Radio Emergency Communications courses, to name a few.
You can further enhance the project and your learning by working together with a group of hams--especially if you include newly licensed hams.
Share the Knowledge
In the so-called "olden days" there were really only two ways to share the knowledge: In person or by writing a book or magazine article on the topic. Today, the Internet has provided a third, highly accessible, means.
 A few examples of name badges. Even if all the "regulars" at your club meetings know your name and call sign, wearing a name/call sign badge is a great way for newcomers to meet you. |
 Installing a PL-259 coax connector can be daunting to new hams. |
Reader Feedback and Author's Comments
Speaking of learning something new and sharing the wealth, spring is the time of year when QRP forums begin popping up around the country. These forums are great places to meet fellow QRPers, see new kits and homebrew projects and learn more about our fascinating hobby.
The first event of the year is Atlanticon held in the Baltimore, Maryland, area. OzarkCon, sponsored by the Four State QRP Group is the next event, held in Joplin, Missouri. Scheduled during the Dayton Hamvention® week, Four Days in May® (FDIM) sponsored by QRP-Amateur Radio Club International (QRP-ARCI), one of the premier QRP gatherings is marking its eleventh year.
For more events, see the schedule table on the QRP Community Page of my Web site for a listing of QRP get-togethers around the country. If you are aware of one I've missed or have more detailed information on an event, please e-mail me with the information to include in the schedule.
I definitely hope to see you at one of the QRP get-togethers this year!
Editor's
note:
Anthony Luscre, K8ZT, an ARRL Life Member, lives in Stow, Ohio. He has worked
in the field of medical microbiology for 18 years and is now a Technology and
Computer Coordinator for a local school district. Luscre is an avid QRP
operator having earned DXCC, WAS and WAC using no more that 5 W output. Readers
are invited to contact the author via e-mail, k8zt@arrl.net or visit his Web site.
| Previous: Surfin': Green Keys and Hams | Next: League Requests Rule Change to Ease Spread Spectrum Operation |
