Overview

The chapter considers the influence that computers and information technology links are having on traditional ways of delivering maritime education and training, and examines how these features can be used to open up future avenues of learning. In this regard the potential of marine simulation, satellite communications and distance learning methods to deliver training and education to the seafarer on the ship, using the global links of the Internet and Worldwide web is considered.

1. Global MET and the Impact of New Technology

The world of maritime education and training (MET) is being subjected to many changes resulting from new international agreements on global standards of education and training. Most conventions and codes affecting global competency standards of seafarers today are of relatively recent origin, having been enacted over the past 25 years. Education and training in the maritime sphere is conducted within vastly different infrastructures, varied institutional frameworks and course programs using a wide variety of standards in equipment and staff capability. Institutions may be established as vocational training centres, technical or secondary colleges, or tertiary polytechnics or universities producing a plethora of diverse systems. The operation of ships themselves has changed and continues to change in a marine environment where not only is legislation affecting the master and his officers in their daily lives, but the introduction of new ship design and technology and data communications systems are rapidly altering the work environment. Today ships are being delivered with built in...