Radio and Electronics in the school curriculum

Is the time right for the study of radio, electronics and space communications to be included in the secondary school curriculum?

In the 1970s and 1980s there were radio clubs in some schools. These stopped due to the loss of the teacher who was also a radio amateur, a lack of student interest, or both.

Is there a successful school radio club still going or recently begun? Please let the amateur radio community know what you're doing as an encouragement to others.

There were also once electronics clubs in schools and elsewhere. Do any still exist? There's a continuing interest in electronics in the community, if you consider the projects in Silicon Chip magazine and various active electronics kits and parts retailers.

Some teenagers today want to go beyond computer games and do something new, interesting and dare I say, `worthwhile'.

The new three-tier amateur licence structure is linked to a trade-based electro-technology qualification, making it suitable in terms of vocational training.

Our nation is experiencing a short-supply of technicians, engineers and scientists. Communications and problem-solving skills, an awareness of technology, and the stimulation of inquiring minds are existing goals of our education system.

The time is right, let's not miss the opportunity, to get the Foundation Licence, electronics and amateur satellite communications into our secondary schools.

Jim Linton VK3PC

Source: Wireless Institute of Australia

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