Computer-based training and the growing need for crew competency management

Maritime Education and Training (MET) is evolving with the use of Computer-Based Training (CBT). During the past two decades, the advancements in computer and software technology has allowed CBT to become a more innovative approach, the maritime industry have used advancements in simulations, mapping and communication technology . In my last article "Benefits of Computer-based Training in the Maritime Industry", I discussed some of the benefits that CBT brings to Maritime Education and Training as well as the Maritime Industry.

The training needs for specific companies and sectors in the Maritime industry may change due to new regulations or amendments to existing regulations. CBT programmes and systems can adapt to these changes and meet the company requirements and industry standards. Whether it is for technical training, safety training or even remedial courses, CBT can help companies comply with all industry standards and international regulations. 

This crucial role in remedial and refresher courses is especially useful for new crew members who are already in the industry or have experience through past roles and responsibilities. A CBT program can be designed specifically for this purpose, to refresh and familiarize crew members before shifts or when switching vessels.

CBT’s ability to adapt and provide flexibility in training is a key factor for its continued growth in Maritime Education and Training (MET). Apart from being designed and used for refresher courses or being able to adapt to changes in international regulations, CBT programs are used by companies to demonstrate operational, safety and emergency procedures and processes. Take this example, the crew for a specific vessel are all qualified, certified and trained for their roles and the operations. However, as part of the company’s safety management system protocol, they should schedule remedial safety and emergency training. CBT programs can demonstrate the processes and procedures for this type of training. The crew therefore are not required to leave the vessel and can review the procedures via video demonstration and if required do a practical session. The crew can choose a specific safety and emergency procedure. For example, let's say the man-overboard procedure is chosen, whereby a step by step video demonstration on the vessel is reviewed before a practical. Each step clearly highlighted in the demonstration, each crew member's role in the process is highlighted and even possible mishaps during the procedure can be demonstrated to create awareness among the crew.

There is a greater call now for crew competence and competency management systems in the maritime industry. Technological advancements and the digital revolution have brought jobs that did not exist before and while CBT is a very product of technology advancements and digitalisation it can help fill the gaps between human and technology. New technology and systems on vessels have disconnected humans from the operations, most of this is caused by the systems design and implementation on vessels. Technological advancements should support humans in their task, roles and responsibilities while assisting in accurate data collection and decision making. This is where CBT can fill the gaps and improve the quality of crew competence by using a training program that demonstrates how newly implemented technology and systems work. CBT and a Crew competency management system when integrated will help ship-owners and operators achieve their training goals and more importantly fill the gaps in competency. By using data analytics the ship-owners can identify weaknesses in various crews and arrange additional training for the specific crew or vessel. The CBT system will also keep a record of each crew and individual training history, if they are to switch vessels or responsibilities their records can show if they require additional training as well.

 While CBT is growing in the Maritime industry, there is still a need for conventional classroom learning and by no means should the traditional classroom form be discredited. CBT merely offers additional means of presenting the course material to seafarers and mariners. It is the many benefits that derive from the proper use and implementation of CBT that will continue to grow in the Maritime industry as it has in many other industries. Whether it is for shore staff or crew members, CBT's growth can contribute significantly to the training requirements and transform MET. In truth, I believe there should be little objection to the growth of CBT in the maritime industry. Yes, it has transformed and changed the way seafarers and mariners learn but not what they learn.