ARRL Online Course
OK here is the deal. I will start with the benefits to this program, then Ill get to the downside. But first some general information. Two courses will open each month. You can sign up by going to the ARRL web site, or by calling the new ham hotline at 1-800-326-3942. The program includes a hard copy of "Now You're Talking" which will be mailed to you.
Benefits
1. The ARRL course is online, so it is available 24/7. When you are ready to complete a lesson, the web site is there for you!
2. Students will have 8 weeks to complete the program. This means you learn at your pace. You can take the whole 8 weeks, or you can finish the program in a week. It is up to you!
3. You will be assigned an online "Elmer" or "Mentor", who will be able to give you practical operating tips not found in ANY book.
4. There will be a special web page devoted to course graduates ONLY. This group will provide you with operating tips, help with selecting the right equipment for you, answers to antenna questions, and for that matter answers to anything related to ham radio.
5. The course will be VERY comprehensive. There are 35 learning units, and it is estimated that it will take 20 - 25 hours to complete. But remember - you will have 8 weeks!! There is no need to rush.
6. This program will actually teach you something, the W5YI book is only the question pool with the answers. You end up learning answers to actual questions, as opposed to the material. Once you finish the ARRL program you will know the answers to the test questions because you understand the material - not just because you memorized that the answer is D.
Downside
1. COST! The ARRL online class will cost $99 for ARRL members and $139 for non-members. Note that ARRL dues for one year are $39, so you might as well join the ARRL then sign up for the class. You spend the same amount, and get the additional benefit of a year of ARRL membership. You do get something for that money, but the final cost/benefit analysis is up to you. I will not tell you the program is worth it or not worth it - I have not seen any of the material or syllabus.