Thursday, November 8, 2012

A Morse Code Program Is A Useful Software-Based Teaching And Learning Tool

By Marcy Becker


Morse code is a system widely used since the 1800s as a method of communication by mariners, the military, radio operators and others. The system is based on a series of clicks, tones, lights or similar signaling device. The system uses standard series of long and short signals referred to as dashes and dots. These sequences can be used to signal one of the letters in the English alphabet, one of the ten numbers (from 0 to 9), or a small group of procedural and punctuation signals. The overall system is quite complex and needs significant effort in terms of memory and repetition to learn and retain. Morse code program packages are supplied by many alternative suppliers to facilitate this learning.

This software uses modern multi-media and video technology to produce effective teaching and learning tools. Using these tools, the software packages help students become proficient to both transmit and decode (receive) system communications. Additionally, the software makes it easier for existing practitioners to sharpen their knowledge and skills so as to shorten transmission and decoding times.

For example, when simulating the transmission of text, the packages can be set to broadcast the text anywhere from five to 99 words a minute. This ability to vary the transmission rate means a student can practice decoding at their own pace in line with their individual ability.

The system represents each letter or numeral as a sequence of dots and dashes. The duration of a dot is the basic time unit in the system. By convention, the duration of a dash is about three times that of a dot. A short silence follows each dash and dot, the duration of the silence being about the duration of a dot. Each word is separated by a silence about equal to a dash (or three dots).

To boost the speed of communications, careful thought is given to how each character is represented in the system. Specifically the length of each character is designed so that it inversely related to its usage in the English language. For instance the most used letter in English is E and it is represented by one dot. Similarly, I is represented by two dots and S by three dots.

The software allows students to tailor their learning in line with their needs and capability. The active participation demanded by the software provides an effective method of teaching and learning. Retention is higher since the student can practice repeatedly to reinforce what is learnt. The software also provides students with instant feedback on their performance to boost their motivation, promote positive reinforcement and hence assist their learning.

The software is used by both corporate and individual users. Many corporate or organizations employ these computer-based packages. As an example, several military organizations use the packages including units in the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Despite the many advances in communication systems since Morse was first developed in the 1800s, the system continues to be used widely throughout the world. It is employed by many organizations and individuals, even if only a back-up system when modern electronic systems fail or cannot be used. Morse code program packages are specifically designed to accelerate the computer-based instruction of this versatile system.




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