Smart ships are already a reality, and it is up to software developers to properly connect the dots of the big data that are assembled and provide correlations that will actually help shipping companies’ management to make decisions based on facts and emerging patterns.
As a company that focuses on e-learning, SQLearn already provides a Learning Management System ashore and onboard that helps shipping companies to run their training matrix-based curricula. Course enrollments to the various ranks abide to specific training needs as those required by the company’s SMS.
However, the need for fleet-wide course refreshers or mandatory re-enrollments might arise due to incidents or special circumstances. With the new reality brought by the data assembled from smart ships, training has a whole new field opening up. Analysis from the gathered data can bring to light vessel-specific or fleet- wide training needs. The e-learning system can be automatically triggered to make the necessary course enrollments to remedy the root cause of those data-backed abnormalities. Specialized e-learning courses can ensure quality, continuous training on the setup, use, and understanding of the data gathered by smart ships. SQLearn is already working on similar algorithms that analyze the effectiveness of training by measuring its impact on incidents related to specific training needs. Thus, the e-learning system over time assigns each training with an effectiveness variable, a KPI that can be used to assess training efficiency and provide feedback that can be used for TMSA3 audits.
Furthermore, as with any technological advancement, addressing the human factor will always be the most critical aspect of successful implementation, particularly in the maritime industry, where human error is the reason for most maritime accidents. By using SQLearn’s interactive courses with multimedia material, the trainees can easily comprehend the topic at hand, perform self-assessment tests, and finally test their knowledge on the topic through a final assessment. At the same time, everyone involved in the management of the training process can easily monitor training activities in real-time and make adjustments as needed since SQLearn’s e-learning system establishes a real-time connection with the vessels. A successfully implemented training program leads to a reduction of costs as
fewer work-related incidents will occur, reducing overall costs.
By Dr. Antonis Frigas,General Manager and VC of BoD, SQLearn
Source: Naftika Chronika , March 2020 issue
