Adaptive training with cloud-based simulators in maritime education

Maritime cloud-based simulation is an emerging technological development that creates a new condition for decentralized interaction where it\u27s content and functionality mirrors traditional on-site-simulator software. This paper uses a quasi-experimental study to examine a training design that is adaptive to the trainee. The training goal is to deliver traditional learning outcomes of comprehension and familiarity with the operation of steering gear systems. The simulator training was administered through novel cloud-based simulator technology to a sample comprising of first year students in nautical sciences (n=12) and marine engineering (n=6) at the college and university level in Norway who had no previous education or operational level experience with steering gear systems in their respective programmes. All participants (N=18) were first subjected to a knowledge acquisition phase of video conference lectures before conducting a simulator training scenario of a standardized pre-departure procedure. Data was collected from 3 sources: (1) a multiple-choice knowledge test, (2) programmed simulator performance indicators, and (3) the Self-Efficacy for Learning and Performance scale. Initial results show that the level of student\u27s self-efficacy predicts the final training performance, and the level of knowledge prior to training is not significant for the outcome

Value migration: digitalization of shipping as a mechanism of industry dethronement

In this conceptual paper, we review latest developments related to unmanned vessels and sketch potential scenarios that implicate with the existing maritime industry structure. On the one hand, we isolate a range of challenges that make the imminent realization of unmanned vessels seem like a rather utopian pursuit. On the other hand, we explain the reasons that may catalyse their emergence. Inspired by these opposing tensions, we highlight that the digital transformation of the shipping industry has the potential to enhance value within the industry’s ecosystem. However, we also contend that unmanned vessels -if realized- pose a very particular threat to the identity of the shipping industry as we know it. In particular, we build upon the concept of value migration and we highlight the drastic existential changes that may likely stem from a shift to non-seafarer-centric shipping. We conclude with questions that matter for industry dethronement purposes i.e., the possibility that existing industry structures may be substantially reconfigured following a removal of the seafarer as the nucleus of value creation in shipping

Distributed Participatory Design in Multidisciplinary Engineering Projects: Investigating a Sustainable Approach for Ship Design & Construction

Naval architecture design procedures focus primarily on the technical aspects of engineering specifications, mission requirements and overall survivability of ships and marine structures. In contrast, often little attention or importance is placed on the operational demands of onboard crew and the detailed design characteristics of a ship’s work environment. However, the design and layout of a ship’s work environment influences how crew execute their tasks. Ship designs not optimized for crew and their work demands can contribute to decreased safety and efficiency, while increasing the physical demands of onboard operations. Inadequate design is a common causal factor of maritime accidents, and thus, should be addressed and mitigated during conceptual design development.The aim of this thesis is to investigate and identify strategies that facilitate the implementation of user-centred design solutions during new ship development, and ultimately optimize the onboard work environment for crew. This thesis has a design-centred scope which explores and develops pragmatic methods and tools to improve knowledge mobilization and participatory design processes between multidisciplinary, geographically-distributed stakeholders involved in new ship development.This research confirms that general arrangement drawings are an effective, pragmatic participatory platform that designers, users and ergonomists can utilize as a communication tool for early evaluation and design input. Visual representations of a ship’s structure and work environment facilitates storytelling and contextualizes highly specialized, tacit crew knowledge and experiences. This allows for design decision-making to be openly discussed, visualized and optimized through tangible, highly iterative processes and directly validated by subject-matter experts. Results from this research were used to develop the software prototype, E-SET, which uses digital general arrangement drawings and ship renderings as a participatory platform for crowdsourced evaluation and input. The prototype’s usability was tested by naval architecture graduate students, while the adoption of new technology and ergonomics applications in ship design projects was further investigated. Ergonomics, as a discipline, must demonstrate tangible added value to traditional engineering design processes in order to motivate industry stakeholder buy-in. Ergonomics applications will be more likely utilized by naval architects and applied within the shipping industry if the tools and methodologies developed are not only usable and convenient, but produce measurable and cost-effective outcomes. However, before ergonomics is to make a meaningful and widespread impact within shipping the attitudes and cultural norms of the industry must evolve as a precondition for knowledge transfer to successfully occur

The Human Element in Marine Engine Department Operation: Human Factors & Ergonomics Knowledge Mobilization in Ship Design & Construction

Physical environments influence how individuals perceive, behave and perform within an operational space and system. Marine engine department operations have dramatically developed from the initial introduction of ship mechanization in the nineteenth century, to ever increasing levels of computerized and automated functions today. This development has contributed to a consistent and continuing reduction of crew numbers, as well as altering engine department work demands and organization. Previous research has revealed an array of occupational hazards and work-related challenges associated with engine department operations, including a growing disconnect between the physical design of the engine department and evolving end-user tasks. These challenges have shown to negatively impact engine crew productivity, safety, health and wellbeing, and moreover, has implications for overall engine department and ship operations. This licentiate thesis investigates three areas which connect physical design and engine department operation from a human-centric perspective: (i) critical analysis of minimum rules and regulations regarding ship design, construction and crew competencies, (ii) exploration of end-user perspectives on functions related to physical design, and (iii) operationalizing the end-user within traditional naval architecture and engineering ship design methods. Results indicate incongruence between the requirements for minimum design, safety and construction standards, and seafarer training and competency requirements. These discrepancies are further extended to their influences upon the conceptual planning and design processes of a new-build ship project. Difficulties in communication and lack of a common understanding between system end-users and design stakeholders hinder effective application of human element knowledge throughout a project’s development. Creating an inter-disciplinary, participatory approach to ship development by integrating human-centered design methods and solutions throughout conceptual ship design can ultimately contribute to safer, more efficient shipping practices once in operation

The Human Element in Marine Engine Department Operation: Human Factors & Ergonomics Knowledge Mobilization in Ship Design & Construction

Physical environments influence how individuals perceive, behave and perform within an operational space and system. Marine engine department operations have dramatically developed from the initial introduction of ship mechanization in the nineteenth century, to ever increasing levels of computerized and automated functions today. This development has contributed to a consistent and continuing reduction of crew numbers, as well as altering engine department work demands and organization. Previous research has revealed an array of occupational hazards and work-related challenges associated with engine department operations, including a growing disconnect between the physical design of the engine department and evolving end-user tasks. These challenges have shown to negatively impact engine crew productivity, safety, health and wellbeing, and moreover, has implications for overall engine department and ship operations. This licentiate thesis investigates three areas which connect physical design and engine department operation from a human-centric perspective: (i) critical analysis of minimum rules and regulations regarding ship design, construction and crew competencies, (ii) exploration of end-user perspectives on functions related to physical design, and (iii) operationalizing the end-user within traditional naval architecture and engineering ship design methods. Results indicate incongruence between the requirements for minimum design, safety and construction standards, and seafarer training and competency requirements. These discrepancies are further extended to their influences upon the conceptual planning and design processes of a new-build ship project. Difficulties in communication and lack of a common understanding between system end-users and design stakeholders hinder effective application of human element knowledge throughout a project’s development. Creating an inter-disciplinary, participatory approach to ship development by integrating human-centered design methods and solutions throughout conceptual ship design can ultimately contribute to safer, more efficient shipping practices once in operation

Effectiveness of VR Head Mounted Displays in Professional Training: A Systematic Review

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Ship engine control room design: Analysis of current human factors & ergonomics regulations & future directions

A ships\u27 engine control room (ECR) is of central importance to the engine department and overall vessel operation. Modern day ships are becoming increasingly technologically sophisticated and computerization has a growing presence in the engine department. A large portion of marine engineering duties are now dedicated to remotely managing equipment from the ECR. In order to optimize control room design and layout from a user-centered perspective numerous safety-critical industries have implemented mandatory regulations which utilize human factors and ergonomics (HF&E) knowledge. However, shipping\u27s highest governing body, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) currently lacks regulatory support in this area. This paper examines international mandatory regulations and non-mandatory guidelines regarding the human element which influence ECR design. Analysis reveals that a disconnect exists between the regulations which specify ship design criteria and those which specify seafarer training competencies and safe operational procedures. From a regulatory perspective ECR design does not support ECR operation. Assessment of current regulatory gaps establishes a base for developing engine department-specific HF&E applications. Safer shipping practices can be fostered by facilitating operational demands through work environment design. However, due to the complexity of international shipping laws mandatory regulations are the only way to ensure effective implementation