Introduction
As we all look to ensure that Seafarer Training delivers both knowledge transfer and value for money, it is essential that underpinning knowledge is measured and then validated by the practical application of the acquired skills within a controlled environment.
The opportunity to validate practical skills is currently conducted in either a fixed simulator or on a live asset. Both methods are costly and can be inconsistent in both availability and their validatory process.
Kilo’s approach optimises the very latest in technological advances, permitting us to reinforce knowledge via clarity of strategy, methodology and supported by untethered Virtual Reality simulation.
This very brief document outlines the generics of our approach and how we ensure the ongoing Competence and Confidence within Seafarers through the continued support post learning, using a series of interventions, mini assessments and competency evaluation.
Reinforcement of Knowledge
The theory of spaced repetition is key to behaviour change, and is entirely dependent on Seafarers repeating activities over time.Â
To embed knowledge and new practices, we always propose that, post-launch, some refresher and reinforcement activities are promoted, scheduled, and/or mandated.
By the use of Mini-Assessments, the frequency of repeating activity can be directly aligned with an individual Seafarer’s knowledge retention.
Short learning interventions, delivered via digital means (IE: LMS / Survey / Competition) are coordinated.
Seafarers are then invited into the VASCO untethered VR Simulator where the Application of Knowledge is reinforced individually and as a team, against evaluated competency standards.
The Outcome is Competent and Confident navigational teams.
Learning Transfer Evaluation Model
Various evaluation methods can be employed to measure the success and impact of learning. In the LTEM model, levels 5-8 get us to the realms of measuring performance improvement – we work with Clients to develop appropriate assessment scenarios, where possible, that would measure Seafarers’ competence and application of knowledge, thus giving our Clients a contemporary method for measuring potential impact.
1 | Attendance | Completion stats from the LMSÂ Completion stats from the LMSÂ |
2 | Activity | Engagement stats from the LMSÂ |
3 | Seafarer Precipiations | Seafarer satisfaction surveys |
4 | Knowledge | Seafarer responses about facts/terminology: Formal knowledge checks on the LMS (immediate (recitation) and after a period of time (retention)) |
5 | Application of Knowledge | Seafarer responses to decision-making scenarios: Formal scenario-based evaluation within VASCO (immediate, and after a period of time), evaluated by Master Mariner Instructors |
6 | Task Compliance | Seafarer responds to realistic ColRegs/BRM situations with VASCO and evaluated based on individual and team competence standards (immediate, and after a period of time) |
7 | Transfer | Seafarer demonstration of learning transfer through objective measures – IE: Navigational Assessments, VDR Audits, Data Analytics from Incident reporting etc. |
8 | Effectiveness of Knowledge Transfer | Measured outcomes affecting (a) Seafarers (b) co-workers (c) organisation/business (d) community (e) society (f) environment are achieved, via a detailed, and tailored, Assessor toolkit |
Summary
Skill Fade across industry is a challenge for all Leaders, but we can address it.
As Seafaring Folk ourselves, our focus is on contemporary and deployable solutions that work within your environment and that are aligned with organisational Operating Procedures and SMS requirements.
As always, ‘one cap does not fit all’, but our adaptive toolkit will ensure the solution that is best for your organisation, is achieved within a tailored approach.
We look forward to discussing how we can support the ongoing assurance of both Competence and Confidence within your Bridge Teams.