Assessment methods for the training effectiveness during the navigators' simulator training

Abstract

Simulation training is an effective method of practically oriented learning that allows cadets of maritime educational institutions to acquire practical skills in conditions as close to reality as possible. However, traditional methods of knowledge assessment, such as written tests, cannot provide a complete image of the cadets' practical skills. In this context, there is a need to use more effective assessment methods that allow to measure the level of certain competences and practical skills. Simulators and the assessment systems implemented on their basis can provide a working tool for measuring the level of certain competencies and practical skills. However, the process of obtaining evaluations of knowledge and skills on a simulator is not as direct as that of traditional training. Instructors who assess students‘ practical skills face limitations in the ways they can obtain information about students’ actions, as well as the need to monitor several students simultaneously or a large number of performance parameters to be monitored. In addition, the assessment criteria defined in the Standards of Training, Certification & Watch keeping standard do not provide a clear assessment methodology. This results in simulator training scores varying from instructor to instructor, and simulator training scores for students are subjective results. The study reviews existing approaches to assessing the effectiveness of maritime simulator training. It analyses the results of academic research in the field of maritime simulator training evaluation. Various evaluation methods have been identified, but none of them is intended as a standard evaluation system for all maritime simulators. To ensure objective evaluation of maritime simulator training, it is necessary to develop and implement an objective evaluation system that will be applied to all maritime simulator training courses. This will ensure a standardized assessment of all seafarers within the framework of the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping