Rant about Mentoring new Satellite Operators
We already have "certifications" - they're called licenses - we don't need any more! Education is great and needed - lose the certifications, they are unneeded and unwanted!!! This is a hobby first and foremost! It ceases being a hobby when you have to get certified to do anything in addition to getting licensed!
Jeff Moore -- KE7ACY
On Mon, Jun 8, 2020 at 4:19 PM Greg D via AMSAT-BB amsat-bb@amsat.org wrote:
Hi Mike,
Good points. Let me offer an expanded view on the situation, and a thought on perhaps a way forward.
I think part of the issue is that the hobby we call "amateur radio" has continued to expand in multiple directions (which is an incredibly good thing), yet the structure of the formal education and support (think license preparation and testing) has either not changed or has shrunk (elimination of Morse code). We have a 1-dimensional solution to a 2-dimensional problem. We fortunately have a pretty strong tradition of Elmering, and with the technology of the Internet, many ways to deliver it beyond the traditional radio club, but that's perhaps a bit too unstructured for many. As a result, they either give up, sit there paralyzed and bewildered, or just stay within a narrow comfort zone.
To be fair, that narrow comfort zone might be all some ever want to do with the hobby, and that's fine. But my expectation is that there are many more who would pursue various areas if there was a little more support (structure) in getting there. Even the awareness that such disciplines and modes exist is pretty random.
My thought... Many of the lanes of interest have industry or a significant nexus of organizational backing (Satellite communications, emergency services, QRP operating, Digital Voice, even Morse Code). Would it work if these organizations created study guides and a formal certification process by which licensed operators could get additional recognition, which they could attach to their signature / call sign / etc. Think "CCNP" for network engineering , "PMP" for project management, or the "Salad Bar" that honors a military uniform.
While it could get to be a little "snobbish" if taken too far, the visibility and formality of such a series of certifications might create the second dimension in advancement that our licensing structure currently lacks. In doing so, it could provide the framework to build on the tradition of Elmering that is at the core of our hobby, and answer your challenge of how to mentor new satellite operators.
Just a thought.
Greg KO6TH
Michael Walker via AMSAT-BB wrote:
Let me chime in on this as this strikes a nerve with me, a d if I offend you, my apologies but I think it needs to be said as a new user.
I work in the retail industry for Ham Radio (most know what I do).
I talk to customers all day long and they come from all walks of life and all education levels. Most new hams do not have the technical
background
they some of us have and they need some very basic information and mentoring to get over the hump. This is a confusing hobby for new hams. AMSAT has not been good at helping out very new users. They want to have fun and actually communicate as well they do want to understand.
Some learn well from reading. Some from Videos and some from 1 on 1 coaching on the phone so they can ask questions.
I will be the first to admit that getting started with SATpc32 for a new operator is difficult. I spent a few weeks at it and nothing phases me
in
technology and integration. This is why I did the intro video on
YouTube
on how to navigate the GUI that I have received LOTS of emails on and how it get them out of 1st gear. Oh, and I searched YouTube before I did the video and everything I saw assumed you knew how to drive SATpc32. So, I do the video and all I get is slammed by AMSAT members for assuming I did not having a licensed copy. What a friendly bunch.
I was about a day from selling a new IC-9700, rotators, ERC controller
and
antennas. Why would I want to be part of a group that didn't really want to help. No wonder the hobby is dying.
Don't get me wrong, it is an amazing piece of software and it does what
it
does amazingly. My rant is not about 955 ROUNDSTONE DR GALT, CA 95632the software it is about those that don't like the simple questions.
Yes, it is a technical hobby but hams new to this part of the hobby do
not
understand the terms and how it affects the operation of trying to make a QSO.
Updating for a new satellite is not easily understood and despite all the instructions that people tossed at me, none worked to get RS44 functional when it came out. And, yes, I read the manual. A LOT. The manual
expects
you to be a seasoned and educated Satellite operator.
For those that spend some one on one time, I think you in advance for all your mentoring as I am sure many have benefitted from your contributions.
For those that say "RTFM" consider where you started and who helped you
to
get out of 1st gear. RTFM doesn't work for everyone. In fact, it has the opposite effect by scaring new members/operators away.
*** Remember, there is no stupid question. ***
Mike va3mw
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Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. AMSAT-NA makes this open forum available to all interested persons worldwide without requiring membership. Opinions expressed are solely those of the author, and do not reflect the official views of AMSAT-NA. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: https://www.amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb
We do have licenses, but they are one dimensional. My point is that the problem is two dimensional, both capability (license class) and technology (in-depth by topic). I've got an Amateur Extra license, but I'm a complete novice when it comes to the HF digital modes. On the other hand, many in my club call me the "satellite guy", but I could do that with a Technician license. Two dimensions.
I do understand the risk of it losing the "hobby" aspect - that is definitely a concern. But just as there is an incentive to pursue a higher license to gain access to more spectrum, the idea is that adding the "word salad" to your call sign, signature, and/or club name badge might be enough incentive to do some studying to pass a credential exam. It certainly won't appeal to (or motivate) everyone, and there's absolutely no requirement to pursue a credential in order to operate in that mode, but it might just provide enough structure to what is currently a very hit-and-miss education system.
Greg KO6TH
Jeff Moore via AMSAT-BB wrote:
We already have "certifications" - they're called licenses - we don't need any more! Education is great and needed - lose the certifications, they are unneeded and unwanted!!! This is a hobby first and foremost! It ceases being a hobby when you have to get certified to do anything in addition to getting licensed!
Jeff Moore -- KE7ACY
participants (2)
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Greg D -
Jeff Moore