Analysis of the implementation of various forms of professional practice at the Faculty of Maritime Studies, University of Rijeka

The paper presents the results of research carried out in the framework of the project PANDORA financed by the European Social Fund. In the first phase of the research, the initial state of implementation of professional practice at the Faculty of Maritime Studies, University of Rijeka was analyzed in workshops with students, while the questionnaire filled in by employers analyzed the way professional practice is carried out in companies. Using both methods, limitations and shortcomings in the implementation of professional practice were identified and guidelines for its improvement were established. Based on the guidelines obtained, an attempt was made over a period of one year to improve various forms of professional practice in the Faculty of Maritime Studies. The performance of the various forms of professional practice was assessed through questionnaires completed by students after professional practice. The forms of professional practice assessed included simulator work, field work, practicums and navigation practice. The results showed that better assessment mechanisms for the different forms of professional practice were established during the observation period, as well as a stronger connection of the tripartite student-professor-employer relationship, resulting in a greater number of master's and bachelor's theses and research projects in collaboration with industry. It was also concluded from the positive student surveys that greater availability of professional practice in the curricula and reinforcement of a more innovative approach facilitated the acquisition of practical knowledge and skills by the target groups.Peer Reviewe

Structural analysis of air passenger flow in the Republic of Croatia from the COVID–19 pandemic impact perspective

Air transport is a globally significant mode of transport that carries people and goods over relatively long distances in a relatively short time. In the case of the Republic of Croatia there are some relevant geographical factors that make it necessary to connect the country to domestic and international airlines, such as territorial division (Dubrovnik’s disconnection from the rest of the Croatian mainland), rugged shape and mountainous terrain. In addition, as a tourist destination, the country should offer good transport links to provide the best experience for tourists. The aim of this research is to conduct an in-depth structural analysis of the intensity and dynamics of passenger air traffic at the global, European, and national (i.e. Croatian) level, considering the specific crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic as a relevant factor in the development of passenger flow. To achieve the defined objective of this research, a structural analysis of the relevant indicators for the development of passenger flow at the airports of the Republic of Croatia was conducted. In addition, a comparative analysis of the intensity, structure and dynamics of passenger flow was carried out within the framework of a comparison of the relevant criteria and statistical data on the indicators of passenger flow at the international, regional, and national levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the state of passenger flow in air transport in terms of organisation and logistics, and especially in terms of the intensity and dynamics of passenger flows. Accordingly, uniform criteria for monitoring passenger flow, systematisation and structural analysis of relevant formation indicators are the basic requirements for continuous monitoring and planning of passenger flow in air transport