Moderator: Welcome to our chat session with Chuck Walthall of technologycourse.com.Chuck, can you give us the “CNN” version of your life?

Chuck Walthall: Started AVL (audio, video, lighting) career at age 12 in my hometown church. Earned a BA in Communication Arts 1983, then 16-plus years with All Pro Sound. I earned a Masters Degree in 2001, started Walthall & Associates, a consulting firm, about a year ago. I know I am doing what God has lead me to do...and love it!

plpns: What reading material do you suggest to help in learning sound systems?

Chuck: “Sound Made Simple” is a handy book that covers the basics of audio and a great place to start. :> (Editor’s Note: Chuck is the author of this book)

Rick: Can you tell us about technologycourse.com?

Chuck: Thanks for joining us. Technologycourse.com (TC) is our distance learning venture that provides an opportunity for technicians to further their knowledge and skills in the AVL field.

Rick: How does it work?

Chuck: Much like a standard college quarter, but all on-line. We offer audio, video, lighting and productions courses, instructed by industry professionals. Each unit of study includes reading assignments (various texts) and questions/exercises to be completed and sent to TC for review.

Chuck (continued): Beginning this fall (if not, this spring), our courses will offer college credit to those seeking a degree in audio technology through Okaloosa-Walton Community College (OWCC). We have been contracted by OWCC to instruct their current courses and develop their upper level courses.

TomUs: Who should take these courses?

Chuck: Every AVL technician on the planet! :> We have both experienced and novice learners.

Randy: I’m a volunteer at my church. Will it (TC) be over my head?

Chuck: Lots of knowledge and experience is shared in the course rooms. Our A101 course is the starting point. So, no, I don’t believe what we’re doing is over anyone’s head. We ensure each learner is not overlooked or left behind! Our goal is to help technicians, and others, expand their knowledge and gain understanding. Proverbs 9:9

Randy: What can I expect to learn in A101?

Chuck: A101 begins with documenting a system, learning signal flow, processor functions, loudspeakers, etc. Lots of time spent on the mixing console and EQ's.

Seven: Do you see manufacturers offering Internet training on their products?