[arrl-odv:29965] ARRL VE program
Barry; Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time? Thanks! 73; Mike W7VO
Jim, K6JAT informed me it was covered in the 3/19 ARRL newsletter, so I forwarded that portion to the members That should answer the question for now. For those that need something to copy and for your constituents, here is the exact text: The ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) has been dealing with a higher-than-normal volume of emails and phone calls and is asking for members’ patience as they attempt to answer everyone’s questions as promptly as possible. “There has been some significant disruption to VE exam session schedules, given the restrictions imposed on gatherings in many locales,” Shelley pointed out. “As with our employees, the health and safety of our Volunteer Examiners is a top priority, and we have informed our VEs that they need to follow their local community’s guidelines and then use their best judgement when deciding whether to conduct, postpone, or cancel an exam session.” This, of course was put out before the HQ shutdown. Barry, has anything changed in this since 3/19? Is the ARRL still sending out and processing exams at all, or are they just delayed? Is the FCC still processing applications? 73; Mike W7VO
On March 26, 2020 at 8:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote:
Barry;
Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time?
Thanks!
73; Mike W7VO
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Barry et al, Adding to Michaels request from VEC... There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii. He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed. The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC. Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming. I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team. In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings. Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed? Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL *“The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf* On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote:
Barry;
Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time?
Thanks!
73; Mike W7VO
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
I was on that meeting last night as well. I spoke to a former coordinator of Anchorage VEC who explained the process that Mickey is describing. They did emphasize “extreme vetting” of proctors. I agree that this approach could work I would go one step further and ask about what the VEC department so far has done, and how far away it is from implementation. This way we can get an idea of whether or not this is worthwhile. As I also noted, online exams for commercial exams are done through iNARTE. They use a virtual proctor system that records the participants. As I’ve been in discussion with them, the SMs are willing to help. VE teams are also willing. Ria N2RJ On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 12:16 PM Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> wrote:
Barry et al,
Adding to Michaels request from VEC...
There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii.
He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed.
The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC.
Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming.
I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team.
In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings.
Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed?
Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL *“The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf*
On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote:
Barry;
Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time?
Thanks!
73; Mike W7VO
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
As a solution to the problem of very remote applicants, the scheme makes sense. However, as the former Anchorage coordinator pointed out, it's a time consuming process on several fronts, and not well adapted to the problem of testing large numbers of applicants who are, because of the Covid-19 issues, unable or unwilling to attend something like an in-person test session. Something new would have to be formulated, and I doubt that such a thing can reasonable be done and vetted before the Covid-19 pandemic has begun to wind down. MikeK1TWF Mike Raisbeck k1twf@arrl.net -----Original Message----- From: rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> To: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>; Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> Sent: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 12:44 pm Subject: [arrl-odv:29969] Re: ARRL VE program I was on that meeting last night as well. I spoke to a former coordinator of Anchorage VEC who explained the process that Mickey is describing. They did emphasize “extreme vetting” of proctors. I agree that this approach could work I would go one step further and ask about what the VEC department so far has done, and how far away it is from implementation. This way we can get an idea of whether or not this is worthwhile. As I also noted, online exams for commercial exams are done through iNARTE. They use a virtual proctor system that records the participants. As I’ve been in discussion with them, the SMs are willing to help. VE teams are also willing. RiaN2RJ On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 12:16 PM Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> wrote: Barry et al, Adding to Michaels request from VEC... There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii. He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed. The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC. Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming. I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team. In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings. Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed? Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL “The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote: Barry; Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time? Thanks! 73; Mike W7VO _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Alan Crosswell, N2YGK from the Columbia university VE team had reached out to me and recommended this: https://inarte.org/fcc-licensing-exams/online-examination-requirements/ He was going to reach out to them as well and see how it could be applied to amateur exams. Point being that all of these processes are similar in that the whole environment is recorded to detect cheating. The implementation differs but the concept is the same. Ria N2RJ On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 1:00 PM Mike Raisbeck <vze18vwgu@verizon.net> wrote:
As a solution to the problem of very remote applicants, the scheme makes sense. However, as the former Anchorage coordinator pointed out, it's a time consuming process on several fronts, and not well adapted to the problem of testing large numbers of applicants who are, because of the Covid-19 issues, unable or unwilling to attend something like an in-person test session. Something new would have to be formulated, and I doubt that such a thing can reasonable be done and vetted before the Covid-19 pandemic has begun to wind down.
Mike K1TWF
Mike Raisbeck k1twf@arrl.net
-----Original Message----- From: rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> To: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>; Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net
Sent: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 12:44 pm Subject: [arrl-odv:29969] Re: ARRL VE program
I was on that meeting last night as well. I spoke to a former coordinator of Anchorage VEC who explained the process that Mickey is describing.
They did emphasize “extreme vetting” of proctors.
I agree that this approach could work I would go one step further and ask about what the VEC department so far has done, and how far away it is from implementation. This way we can get an idea of whether or not this is worthwhile.
As I also noted, online exams for commercial exams are done through iNARTE. They use a virtual proctor system that records the participants.
As I’ve been in discussion with them, the SMs are willing to help. VE teams are also willing.
Ria N2RJ
On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 12:16 PM Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> wrote:
Barry et al,
Adding to Michaels request from VEC...
There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii.
He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed.
The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC.
Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming.
I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team.
In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings.
Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed?
Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL *“The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf*
On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote:
Barry;
Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time?
Thanks!
73; Mike W7VO
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
This is not going to wind down for several months. Most schools here have cancelled through April and discussion is ongoing about terminating the school year. Obviously they’ve cancelled Hamvention in May. All we need to do is adopt a process already defined by AH0I. That doesn’t require any rule changes or changes in the handbook, simply a document detailing a process - maybe two people days. I see this as a duty, a service meeting a need. I also see it as a competitive advantage to gain ground against other VECs, like Laurel, that are perceived as giving better service. So is it worth the work to formalize an existing process for this emergency through documentation? I believe so, but this is absolutely a staff call. Mickey N4MB On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 1:00 PM Mike Raisbeck <vze18vwgu@verizon.net> wrote:
As a solution to the problem of very remote applicants, the scheme makes sense. However, as the former Anchorage coordinator pointed out, it's a time consuming process on several fronts, and not well adapted to the problem of testing large numbers of applicants who are, because of the Covid-19 issues, unable or unwilling to attend something like an in-person test session. Something new would have to be formulated, and I doubt that such a thing can reasonable be done and vetted before the Covid-19 pandemic has begun to wind down.
Mike K1TWF
Mike Raisbeck k1twf@arrl.net
-----Original Message----- From: rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> To: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>; Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net
Sent: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 12:44 pm Subject: [arrl-odv:29969] Re: ARRL VE program
I was on that meeting last night as well. I spoke to a former coordinator of Anchorage VEC who explained the process that Mickey is describing.
They did emphasize “extreme vetting” of proctors.
I agree that this approach could work I would go one step further and ask about what the VEC department so far has done, and how far away it is from implementation. This way we can get an idea of whether or not this is worthwhile.
As I also noted, online exams for commercial exams are done through iNARTE. They use a virtual proctor system that records the participants.
As I’ve been in discussion with them, the SMs are willing to help. VE teams are also willing.
Ria N2RJ
On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 12:16 PM Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> wrote:
Barry et al,
Adding to Michaels request from VEC...
There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii.
He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed.
The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC.
Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming.
I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team.
In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings.
Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed?
Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL *“The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf*
On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote:
Barry;
Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time?
Thanks!
73; Mike W7VO
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
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-- “Ends and beginnings—there are no such things. There are only middles.” Robert Frost
Mickey: Please stand by. I’ve been trying to formulate a response to all of the questions and proposals I’ve seen on these subjects and will post to ODV later this afternoon/evening. Barry, N1VXY From: arrl-odv <arrl-odv-bounces@reflector.arrl.org> On Behalf Of Mickey Baker Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2020 2:51 PM To: Mike Raisbeck <vze18vwgu@verizon.net> Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>; Ritz, Mike, W7VO, (Dir, NW) <w7vo@comcast.net> Subject: [arrl-odv:29973] Re: ARRL VE program This is not going to wind down for several months. Most schools here have cancelled through April and discussion is ongoing about terminating the school year. Obviously they’ve cancelled Hamvention in May. All we need to do is adopt a process already defined by AH0I. That doesn’t require any rule changes or changes in the handbook, simply a document detailing a process - maybe two people days. I see this as a duty, a service meeting a need. I also see it as a competitive advantage to gain ground against other VECs, like Laurel, that are perceived as giving better service. So is it worth the work to formalize an existing process for this emergency through documentation? I believe so, but this is absolutely a staff call. Mickey N4MB On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 1:00 PM Mike Raisbeck <vze18vwgu@verizon.net<mailto:vze18vwgu@verizon.net>> wrote: As a solution to the problem of very remote applicants, the scheme makes sense. However, as the former Anchorage coordinator pointed out, it's a time consuming process on several fronts, and not well adapted to the problem of testing large numbers of applicants who are, because of the Covid-19 issues, unable or unwilling to attend something like an in-person test session. Something new would have to be formulated, and I doubt that such a thing can reasonable be done and vetted before the Covid-19 pandemic has begun to wind down. Mike K1TWF Mike Raisbeck k1twf@arrl.net<mailto:k1twf@arrl.net> -----Original Message----- From: rjairam@gmail.com<mailto:rjairam@gmail.com> <rjairam@gmail.com<mailto:rjairam@gmail.com>> To: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com<mailto:fishflorida@gmail.com>> Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>>; Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net<mailto:w7vo@comcast.net>> Sent: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 12:44 pm Subject: [arrl-odv:29969] Re: ARRL VE program I was on that meeting last night as well. I spoke to a former coordinator of Anchorage VEC who explained the process that Mickey is describing. They did emphasize “extreme vetting” of proctors. I agree that this approach could work I would go one step further and ask about what the VEC department so far has done, and how far away it is from implementation. This way we can get an idea of whether or not this is worthwhile. As I also noted, online exams for commercial exams are done through iNARTE. They use a virtual proctor system that records the participants. As I’ve been in discussion with them, the SMs are willing to help. VE teams are also willing. Ria N2RJ On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 12:16 PM Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com<mailto:fishflorida@gmail.com>> wrote: Barry et al, Adding to Michaels request from VEC... There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii. He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed. The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC. Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming. I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team. In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings. Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed? Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL “The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net<mailto:w7vo@comcast.net>> wrote: Barry; Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time? Thanks! 73; Mike W7VO _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv -- “Ends and beginnings—there are no such things. There are only middles.” Robert Frost
Barry and I have exchanged so many emails and phones calls over this matter the past few days that I've worn my welcome out and he's probably blocked my number. (hi) Barry and Staff are reviewing this and will report later today. 73Rick -----Original Message----- From: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> To: Mike Raisbeck <vze18vwgu@verizon.net> Cc: arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>; w7vo@comcast.net <w7vo@comcast.net> Sent: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 1:51 pm Subject: [arrl-odv:29973] Re: ARRL VE program This is not going to wind down for several months. Most schools here have cancelled through April and discussion is ongoing about terminating the school year. Obviously they’ve cancelled Hamvention in May. All we need to do is adopt a process already defined by AH0I. That doesn’t require any rule changes or changes in the handbook, simply a document detailing a process - maybe two people days. I see this as a duty, a service meeting a need. I also see it as a competitive advantage to gain ground against other VECs, like Laurel, that are perceived as giving better service. So is it worth the work to formalize an existing process for this emergency through documentation? I believe so, but this is absolutely a staff call. Mickey N4MB On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 1:00 PM Mike Raisbeck <vze18vwgu@verizon.net> wrote: As a solution to the problem of very remote applicants, the scheme makes sense. However, as the former Anchorage coordinator pointed out, it's a time consuming process on several fronts, and not well adapted to the problem of testing large numbers of applicants who are, because of the Covid-19 issues, unable or unwilling to attend something like an in-person test session. Something new would have to be formulated, and I doubt that such a thing can reasonable be done and vetted before the Covid-19 pandemic has begun to wind down. MikeK1TWF Mike Raisbeck k1twf@arrl.net -----Original Message----- From: rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> To: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> Cc: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>; Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> Sent: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 12:44 pm Subject: [arrl-odv:29969] Re: ARRL VE program I was on that meeting last night as well. I spoke to a former coordinator of Anchorage VEC who explained the process that Mickey is describing. They did emphasize “extreme vetting” of proctors. I agree that this approach could work I would go one step further and ask about what the VEC department so far has done, and how far away it is from implementation. This way we can get an idea of whether or not this is worthwhile. As I also noted, online exams for commercial exams are done through iNARTE. They use a virtual proctor system that records the participants. As I’ve been in discussion with them, the SMs are willing to help. VE teams are also willing. RiaN2RJ On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 12:16 PM Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> wrote: Barry et al, Adding to Michaels request from VEC... There's a grassroots effort to continue testing via "remote proctoring" and electronically signed documents as AH0A is doing out of Hawaii. He has a candidate complete a Form 605 and a blank CSCE (with pages of each color of the paper one used), has the candidate submit a video of their testing site. He then generates a unique test using VE Exam Maker, and sends this package with a blank answer sheet to the candidate after they are on camera and situated for testing. Three VEs watch the candidate(s) take the test and the candidate submits a scan or photograph of the completed answer sheet as soon as is completed. The test is graded and the CSCE, circulated to the proctoring team for verification and e-signatures and appropriately colored pages sent to the candidate and ARRL VEC. Many of us attend a general meeting of SMs occasionally and this was discussed last night. There is some fear from some SMs that this method falls in conflict with the ARRL VEC, and feel that a general statement or process from HQ should be forthcoming. I realize that somewhere down the road, the process will change to one more adaptable to remote testing, but we need to continue the business of the ARRL and be a leader. Laurel has already refused to do remote testing, and we can gain some ground at very little risk by continuing in this manner or perhaps with other suggestions from the HQ VEC team. In the Southeastern Division alone, we estimate that we will miss over 200 tests per month, and perhaps lose prospective members if we don't continue testings. Can we get this process approved generally until the threat of contagion has passed, or perhaps until a better process is developed? Mickey Baker, N4MB Palm Beach Gardens, FL “The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Robert K. Greenleaf On Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 11:02 AM Michael Ritz <w7vo@comcast.net> wrote: Barry; Several people have sent me e-mails wondering what the official status of the ARRL VE program is. In other words, are VE packages still be processed, in either direction? (Exams sent out, and completed exams processed?). Is the FCC still processing results and issuing licenses? If they are still being processed, what is the expected delay time? Thanks! 73; Mike W7VO _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv -- “Ends and beginnings—there are no such things. There are only middles.” Robert Frost_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
participants (6)
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k5ur＠aol.com -
Michael Ritz -
Mickey Baker -
Mike Raisbeck -
rjairam＠gmail.com -
Shelley, Barry, N1VXY (CEO)