In Depth: Simulation and Sea Time Reduction
The maritime sector plays an important role in the Dutch economy No less than almost three per cent of the Dutch gross national product is earned by maritime companies. The sector is a force to be reckoned with and the future stakes are high. The fact that worldwide nearly 90 per cent of all goods is being transported via the global waterways stresses the importance of a strong, innovative and safe sector. Seafaring companies play a crucial role in the safe transportation of oil and (liquid natural) gas.
Traditionally, the Dutch maritime sector is an innovative sector. The high level of education of Dutch seafarers makes it possible to play a leading role in a highly competitive international market. Over the years, Dutch nautical educational institutes such as the STC-Group, have evolved and adapted their educational programme and teaching methods to the changing demands of companies and their crews. With the help of simulators, such as full-mission bridge simulators, dynamic positioning simulators and dredging simulators, it is possible to create a safe and interactive training environment for young people who aspire to become seafarers. The simulated programmes used during the courses approach real life situations. Not only students can train their, for instance, navigational skills, they also learn how to work together under stressful conditions. Every conceivable situation can be programmed into the simulator so that students can perform all skills of action and manoeuvres safely and in a controlled environment. If they make a mistake, it will not cause damage but does provide teachers the basis for an effective analysis.
The deployment of simulators in educational programmes could also prove to be a solution for the reduction of sea time. Already leading international institutes such as The Nautical Institute acknowledge the role that simulators can play in this reduction. If the Dutch government were to consider to investigate the possibility of sea time reduction by way of simulation, this could prove to be a solution for the (impending) lack of possibilities of internships for young students.
Marjolein Jansen
Member of the board of directors
STC-Group
