ABSTRACT
In Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) handling, Officers Of Watch (OOW) are experiencing several problems which have been identified and defined so far, with varieties in their causes and nature. Issues related to education, training and (lack of) knowledge can be singled out as factors directly and indirectly associated to a number of consequent difficulties and unwanted situations. The proposed paper deals with training of seafarers as end-users of the ECDIS system, trying to present them as central subjects in the ECDIS system of stakeholders. Within the research and (using results from) the corresponding survey, opinions of OOWs are considered and discussed regarding sufficiency of stipulated hours and recommended means for the completion of the Generic ECDIS training. Respondents’ profile was layered in several categories, all of which were elaborated considering survey questions. Certain features are presented regarding skills and knowledge prerequisites for which is understood that are already adopted by course attendees, which in turn opens new questions and potential issues. On the basis of the study, actually being part of larger ECDIS research, and derived inferences, possible solutions and indicative guidelines are suggested, focusing on ECDIS education and training issues and appearances. Improvement of the educational and training process is further discussed. Planned activities are presented as inevitable tasks which have been formed based on previous and proposed research.
