Objectives:

The course will enable students to pass the theory examinations for radio amateurs as prescribed by Industry Canada.  Some students may also be able to pass the Advanced  level qualification.  The objective of the course is to teach a basic understanding of the principles of radio communication as a basis for further individual study of the science.    Those wishing to learn the Morse code may do so during three week-ends of intensive instruction (and additional daily personal practice). 

Course length

The course length is 20 weeks, one evening per week, including the Industry Canada examination.  (Tuesday evenings 19:00 to 22:00).

Course content

The course provides instruction on electrical and radio theory, radio regulations, and practical sessions.  The course covers the complete syllabus prescribed by Industry Canada for the Basic Qualification.  No technical background is require to take this course, but those having a technical or engineering background will enjoy the course.  The course begins with an understanding of the fundamentals of electrical charge and magnetism.  It develops and builds on these concepts to ultimately bring about an appreciation of the nature and properties of high frequency electrical currents and how to use them for radio communication.  Amateur radio use of the internet will be discussed. As stated, the objective of the course is to develop a basic understanding of the science of radio rather than to memorize the necessary answers to pass the Industry Canada examination.  The course also develops a  knowledge of the practical aspects of assembling and operating an amateur radio station.  There should be opportunity for practical operating experience at an amateur radio station during the course. The final area of study is the regulations governing the operation of amateur radio stations.  A thorough knowledge of these regulations, which are published in Radio Information Circulars (RIC) by the Department of Industry, is mandatory. 

Instruction 

The course is team taught by people who are active radio amateurs and experienced teachers.  The course uses an instruction manual written specifically for this course by  Doug Carswell , VE3ATY.   It is supplemented by special notes pertaining to specific subjects. 

Course Fees

The instructors give their time without remuneration.  The course fee is $300, which covers the cost of the manual and other printed material handed out.  For those participating in a Saturday construction project there would be an additional cost of about $25 for kit parts.   The intensive Morse code instruction is included in the $300 course fee for those taking the course.  For others wanting to take the Morse code instruction only the fee is $100.   The intensive Morse code classes will be held on the week-ends of October 17 and 18, November 21 and 22, December 5 and 6, from 09:00 to 17:00.

Successful course candidates will receive a year’s membership to Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC), and to the OVMRC to the end of the following June. 

Those achieving a 12 wpm level of competence in the Morse code instruction will have the opportunity to purchase a low power, single band, Morse code transceiver kit for $50.00.

Who Should Attend 

·         Students may be of any age.  We have had students from 14 to 70 in age.

·         Five of 13 graduates in 1997 were women.

·         Students can have virtually any background.

·         Ocean sailors find this course very useful.  Once beyond sight of land HF radio is about the only means of communication from a small vessel.

·         Retired people find Amateur Radio an interesting retirement hobby.

The course is demanding of time, two evening each week plus daily practice sessions if Morse code skill is being acquired.  Anyone following full time studies should consider carefully whether taking this course will impinge adversely on success in their other studies.

Registration

Course registration will be at the Canada Museum of Science and Technology, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd. Ottawa, at 19:00 on 22 September, 2009.  For both the course and the intensive Morse code sessions.