MSARS Training Academy is an ongoing and long-term project.
In the absence of in-person training opportunities, I feel that it provides an accessible learning platform - and that right now, it's the best that can be achieved. Whilst it may not float everyone's boat, the advantage it unquestionably does have is reach, and therefore this summer I'll be promoting it nationally.
Of course, a training academy is only as good as the courses and learning material that it offers, and crafting that is a time consuming business. I've found it difficult at every stage - trialling and selecting the correct educational platform, installing and configuring that software, working out how to use and maintain it, and figuring out how best to load training content onto it. I know it's taken a long time; I knew it would, but if it inspires just one person to learn more about radio technology and have fun whilst doing so, then I'll call it a win.
I personally wanted to fulfil an ambition which I shared with MSARS members last year, but also whilst making a case for our council-awarded grant last October. I really wasn't joking when I said I wanted to be able to offer free training to every single person in Burgess Hill, Mid Sussex, and the entire UK.
But let's not get carried away. It is, as I said, limited by the content which can be made available.
Like most amateurs I'm really interested in just a subset of everything that's on offer as part of the greater amateur radio community. Therefore, I've focused on getting some modern and cutting-edge technology based material loaded up. That doesn't mean that as a club we can't add more traditional offerings at a later stage, but that's not my focus. Other clubs and societies already have much of that covered in my opinion, and I for one will not be wasting time duplicating that effort when they have already done such a good job.
The academy currently has one main course available. It's entitled 'Understanding Radio Communications Using Software Defined Radio'. This was kindly donated to the society in its entirety by UK company SDRplay, and that is why they are identified as a sponsor on our website.
Now I'll be honest, I haven't completed the full course myself. I just haven't been able to find the time, but I've seen most of it, and have used all the tools it employs on previous projects and training courses. There are also a lot of hands-on practical exercises included, and you will ideally require an SDRplay RSP1a SDR receiver to complete those. Chances are that if you have an interest in SDR technology, you have one of these fantastic little boxes anyway. I also have two available for club members to borrow if not.
For more information, you can get an overview of the course on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sdrplayeducators4304
MSARS members may request access using the regular website registration form.
You may then access the MSARS Training Academy itself from the Training Menu above, or directly: https://msarsacademy.org.uk
Please feed back if you find any errors or encounter any problems etc. There is a discussion forum available as part of the course platform for this purpose.
The course is designed to be given by a 'teacher', but I'll just have to try and provide support on a best-efforts basis. The latter part of the course requires an Arduino-based transmitter module. I have made one, and can make it available at club nights if required, or you can make your own. It's actually a bit of fun, and instructions are included in the teachers notes. If you need help, then just ask in the forum. There are quizzes and additional activities available, and it's up to you whether you choose to submit these for assessment. There is no requirement and I promise not to fail you!
Take your time, and enjoy the course.
Berni M0XYF
