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ETP Resources Feature Article Amateur Radio A Powerful Voice in Education [118,325 bytes, PDF file] Teachers Institute on Wireless Technology TI Info by Year Links Teachers Institute on Wireless Technology Instructional Kits and Projects Basic Electronics for the New Ham: PowerPoint Presentation Instructor's Script Word Document School Application Progress Grant Application Downloadable Curriculum School Teacher Support Programs Program Brochure [617,399 bytes, PDF file] Frequently Asked Questions How To Approach Schools ARRL ETP Schools ARRL Products: Space/Satellites (More) The ARRL Image Communications Handbook -- Use Amateur Radio to see and talk with other hams! Enjoy the imaging modes: NBTV, ATV, SSTV and WEFAX. Nova for Windows -- A popular Windows-based satellite tracking program, used by thousands of hams. Realistic maps show satellite positions, ground tracks, orbital paths, and star background. Amateur Radio Astronomy -- Explore the contributions of radio amateurs, and how to make and set up equipment to study the signals coming from space. The ARRL Satellite Handbook -- First Edition. Explore, track and operate ham radio satellites! Radio Nature -- Now Shipping! -- The reception and study of naturally originating radio signals.

Amateur Radio is best known to the general public for its role in emergency communications during disasters. Despite many advances in communications technology, emergency management agencies and relief organizations continue to call upon Amateur Radio for assistance and to respect the contribution made by radio amateurs during times of crisis.

For its licensees, Amateur Radio is not only an opportunity to serve the community during emergencies but also a source of friendship, recreation, and personal growth. In addition, many people began their path towards careers in electronics and wireless communications with experiences in Amateur Radio as children and teenagers.

Amateur Radio is a significant resource for the classroom teacher in the education of America's youth for life and work in a global, technological society. Applications of Amateur Radio in the classroom help students become employable, informed, conscientious citizens. ARRL, the National Association for Amateur Radio, has developed an education project to introduce teachers to this resource and enable them to make the most effective use of it in their classrooms.

Why should teachers consider using Amateur Radio in their classrooms?

• Amateur Radio is an ongoing activity on the International Space Station.

  Katie, KD7NPN, a sixth grader at Franklin Elementary School in Kirkland, Washington, has her Technician License.

• The Federal Communications Commission has modernized Amateur Radio licensing requirements making it less complicated for teachers to earn a class of license that allows them to supervise a full range of Amateur Radio activities.

• Employers need workers who are familiar not only with computers but also with wireless communications concepts.

• Amateur Radio emphasizes self-challenge, the value of life-long learning, and the importance of participation in public service.

To encourage teachers who may not be aware of the educational potential of Amateur Radio, the ARRL has developed the Amateur Radio Education & Technology Program which will include the following:

• Classroom Bookshelf -- provides schools with publications related to the use of technology in wireless communications

• On-Line Sourcebook -- provides tips and ideas for teaching wireless technology to youth in schools, community groups and clubs

• Radio Lab Handbook -- handbook of lesson plans and projects to help teachers provide authentic, hands-on technological experiences for their students

• Stations in Schools -- provides Amateur Radio equipment to establish a school station, for qualifying schools

• Progress Grants -- grants awards to teachers currently using Amateur Radio in their classrooms

Search ARRLWeb to learn more about "The Big Project"

The goal of the Amateur Radio Education & Technology Program is to improve the quality of education by providing an educationally sound curriculum focused on wireless communications. The project emphasizes integration of technology, math, science, geography, writing, speaking and social responsibility within a global society. For more information on The Big Project, go to our FAQ or download the program brochure (617,399 bytes, PDF file).

School teachers interested in incorporating Amateur Radio into their curriculum, using it as an enrichment program or as a club activity are welcome to apply to become a Project School. Teachers currently using Amateur Radio in the classroom are welcome to apply for a Progress Grant to assist them in maintaining their station or enhancing their program. For additional resources, see our School Teacher Support Programs page.