Give - Hochschule Bremen
Transcription
Give - Hochschule Bremen
COMPILATION OF A COMPUTER BASED TRAINING MODULE FOR THE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION OF OFFICERS NAVIGATING IN ICE AFFECTED WATERS Diplomarbeit zur Erlangung des Grades „Diplom-Wirtschaftsingenieur für Seeverkehr (FH)“ an der Hochschule Bremen Fakultät 5 - Natur und Technik Wintersemester 2009/2010 Christoph Benedikt Funke benediktfunke@web.de Erstprüfer: Kapt. Willi Wittig, MSc Zweitprüfer: Kapt. Prof. Peter Irminger Bremen, November 2009 Preface “Perhaps the most valuable result of all education is the ability to make yourself do the thing you have to do, when it ought to be done, whether you like it or not; it is the first lesson that ought to be learned; and however early a man‘s training begins, it is probably the last lesson that he learns thoroughly.” - Thomas H. Huxley (1825-1895) The famous fellow of Charles Darwin, Thomas Huxley, British biologist and educationalist, pointed out the urge for education, enabling oneself to choose appropriate behaviour in specific situations without long considerations. This competency is of a paramount importance for nautical officers and calls for particular consideration. During the daily watch routine the conning officer continuously has to cope with situations that require quick reactions and decisions for the accurate actions. The best education and constant training are the essential means to give nautical personnel the selfassuredness to handle these every-day challenges and to act safely under exceptionally perilous circumstances. Inspired by own trips to ice-affected waters and the fascination of ship handling in these conditions, I decided to cover this topic within this diploma thesis. Therefore - seeing the need for special training and the run on polar seaways – I chose to develop a training course for officers working on ice-going vessels. The educational structures have changed in the course of the past and e-learning concepts have experienced a huge upswing. These technologies are particularly suitable for training on-board ships due to the independence of place and time. The heavy-lift specialist Beluga Shipping has come up with innovative concepts in the past and is still conducting pioneering studies covering all aspects of the shipping market. II Preface Two ice-strengthened company vessels successfully transited the Northern Sea Route this summer. My thank goes to all people at Beluga Shipping who supported me with this work. Furthermore my gratitude goes to Capt. Willi Wittig, MSc, and Capt. Prof. Peter Irminger from the University of Applied Sciences, Bremen, for mentoring this thesis and giving interesting influence in all contexts. I decided to use the English language for this thesis, owed to the internationality of the shipping industry and multi-national mixture of crews doing their service on ships all around the globe. Orthography and grammar are based on the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary in its latest edition. Benedikt Funke Bremen, 13. November 2009 III. CONTENTS Preface Contents Abbreviations Figures 1 Scope 2 Objectives and Procedure 3 Ice Navigation 3.1 Special Training Requirements 3.1.1 Navigational Circumstances 3.1.2Regulatory Circumstances 3.1.3 Working Circumstances 3.2 Current Situation 3.2.1 Traffic Situation 3.2.2 Educational Situation 3.3 Perspective 4 E-Learning 4.1 Definitions 4.1.1 Didactical Formats 4.1.2 Learning Management Systems 4.2 Applications 4.3 Advantages and Disadvantages 4.4 Conclusion 5 Training Module 5.1 Technical Specifications 5.1.1 ILIAS 5.1.2 Programming 5.1.3 System Requirements 5.2 Target Group 5.3 Structure and Subjects 5.3.1 Targets 5.3.2 Disposition and Content 5.3.3 Didactical Structure 5.3.4 Tests 5.4 Layout 5.4.1 Page Concept and Navigation 5.4.2 Text 5.4.3 Illustration 6 Conclusion and Perspective Bibliography Appendix Appendix A: Training Module Ice Navigation on CD Appendix B: Complementary diagrams Ehrenwörtliche Erklärung II IV V VI 1 3 4 4 5 6 6 7 7 8 9 11 11 11 12 13 15 16 18 18 18 20 20 21 22 22 22 23 24 24 25 26 27 29 31 37 38 39 42 IV. ABBREViATIONS Capt. Captain CBT Computer Based Training CD Compact Disc cf. confer CSS Cascading Style Sheet DNV Det Norske Veritas Dr. Doktor (German: PhD) et al. et alii HS Hochschule (German: University of Applied Sciences) HTML Hypertext Markup Language IAATO International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators ibid. ibidem IMO International Maritime Association Ing. Ingenieur (German: Degreed Engineer) IPTS Institute for Prospective Technological Studies LMS Learning Management System MARPOL International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships MMCC Media Competence Center (HS Bremen) NSR Northern Sea Route NWP North West Passage PC Personal Computer q.v. quod vide SEMICS Smart Electronic Maritime Information and Communication Systems STCW Standards on Training, Certification and Watchkeeping WBT Web Based Training V. FIGURES Figure 1: MV Stena Arctica, Ice-Aframax-Tanker Figure 2: RV “Polarstern” at Rothera Base, Antarctica Figure 3: Arctic seaways Figure 4: Media-didactical approaches Figure 5: Schematic Idea of Blended Learning Figure 6: AULIS Personal Desktop Figure 7: Learning Module: Page Layout Figure 8: Illustrating role models 4 8 9 12 16 19 25 27 VI. SCOPE 1 // Scope Advanced vocational training and continuous learning is needed to excel other competitors on the job market, and is contributing to self-satisfaction.1 Regarding the shipping crisis it should therefore be deemed crucial for nautical officers in order to qualify for special market segments aloof of the mostly affected container shipping. From a companies’ point of view the crisis should be considered as a chance for internal restructuring, thus gaining competitive advantages for the future. According to results from this year’s human resources trade fair PERSONAL2009, well directed personnel development during the depression will give a return on investment by preventing skill shortage in the long run.2 One chance of specialisation for nautical officers can be seen in the field of ice-navigation which is becoming more and more important due to the opening of Arctic seaways. According to the experience of Columbia Ship Management3 it has always been a problem to find skilled officers for this domain.4 Observing the development of Polar traffic and presuming an increase during the next decades lets it seem advisable to gather early experience in this field, in order to become a highly qualified officer until the demand on the job market rises. Additional nautical qualifications are obtained through practical experience and interaction on special operating ships and have to be consolidated by instructed courses and self-studying. E-learning in all of its facets offers very suitable ways, guiding through these studies. Cf. Hartmann (2007), Chapter 4.4. Cf. spring Messe Management (2009). 3 Responsible crewing agency for cruise companies operating Arctic and Antarctic waters. (e.g. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises). 4 Natke (2009), conversation on 26.09.2009. 1 2 01 SCOPE The research for this work was focused on two issues: E-Learning and its advantages for on-board training on the one hand, and the required proficiencies for a safe ice-navigator on the other hand. This written composition mainly copes with the qualities of e-learning, while the results of the study on ice-navigation topics can be found in the computer based training attached to this work.5 5 Appendix A; also: https://www.aulis.hs-bremen.de/ ilias.php?baseClass=ilLMPresentationGUI&ref_id=141649. 02 OBJECTIVES AND PROCEDURE 2 // Objectives and Procedure The thesis at hand is intended to provide a commentary on the compilation and development of a computer based training module (CBT) for the schooling of students and nautical officers responsible for the watch on ice-going vessels according to the Norwegian proposal for “Training requirements for ships operating in ice-covered waters”.6 At the beginning the need for special ice-navigation training and its requirements will be outlined and discussed regarding today’s situation and an outlook to future aspects. The subsequent part is concerned with e-learning standards and systems including their didactical structure and typical application. A transfer of the before mentioned concepts to the learning module concerned by this thesis will be conducted in the following and the technical principles, structure and layout of the CBT will be described. Finally, a conclusion and perspective on computer based training on board in general and this Ice-Navigation module in particular will be drawn. 6 International Maritime Organization (2008) 03 ICE NAVIGATION 3 // Ice Navigation Navigation in ice-affected waters has been a demanding task for polar discoverers throughout centuries and still is for sailors nowadays. Figure 1: MV Stena Arctica, Ice-Aframax-Tanker Conny Wickberg, Stena Bulk7 In the following the resulting special training requirements will be defined concisely, pursued by a synopsis of the current ice-traffic and educational situation along with a perspective to increasing polar traffic and future regulatory amendments. 3.1 // Special Training Requirements Since nautical officers working on ice-going vessels are confronted to diverse unordinary tasks, additional qualifications are indispensable to safe navigation. This chapter solely provides a brief rundown of these qualifications, since the topics and necessary proficiencies can be found in a more sophisticated approach in the learning module and its disposition.8 http://www.stenabulk.com/Global/Press/Images/JPG_600/ Aframax%20Ice/Afraarc-184-10-600x.jpg [as of 06.10.09]. 8 Q.v. Chapter 5.2. 7 04 ICE NAVIGATION 3.1.1 // Navigational Circumstances Incidents with ice, especially when unexpected, can have disastrous consequences. Not only the well-known accidents of the Titanic from 1912 in the Northern Atlantic, or the Explorer in Antarctica in 2007, have shown the immense dangers of polar ice. Both vessels sank after a collision with an ice-berg. Besides structural and technical deficiencies, the two accidents also resulted from human errors and false estimations of the potential dangers.9 To prevent such accidents when approaching ice-infested waters, knowledge and correct interpretation of the ice conditions is the base of safe voyage planning. Therefore, mariners have to be familiarised with ice types, stages of development and means of gathering ice-information. The navigational officer should then be able to adopt these particulars to the existent passage plan in accordance with the master’s decisions in order to determine the safest track or to entirely avoid the ice.10 Once the vessel has to enter ice-covered waters it is the conning officer’s duty to handle the ship’s engine and helm in an appropriate way to keep the vessel free of harm. Awareness of the own vessel’s ice class as well as steering characteristics and implications in manoeuvrability through ice hence have to be part of a well trained officer’s ken. As most coastal states affected by ice during wintertime set up ice-breaking services, establishing ice-breaker and tug assistance can become part of winter operations. This calls for particular instructions to towing techniques and standardised communications. Regarding the current increase of polar traffics, officers should also get used to high-latitude errors of technical equipment as well as limitations of nautical charts due to polar projection. 9 Cf. Cummings (2009) and Liberian Bureau of Maritime Affairs (2009), p. 59. 10 Cf. Buysse (2007), p. 12f. 05 ICE NAVIGATION 3.1.2 // Regulatory Circumstances Governmental organisations of each of the Arctic bordering countries have released individual regulations for transiting their territories during the ice-season. These regulations include, but are not limited to, pilotage, traffic schemes and rules ensuring environmental protection. Moreover Antarctic waters are subject to various international regulations like the Antarctic Treaty11, MARPOL and IAATO guidelines, declaring them as special sea areas, and vessels travelling to southern oceans need to arrange extra planning and procedures. In order to comply with all these rules and to prevent considerable fines it is essential for responsible officers to know about applicable law and the sources of information about the latest releases. 3.1.3 // Working Circumstances The risk of medical impairment in wintry conditions is not only perilous when exposed to water during abandon ship but also to a certain extent in dry deck work.12 Accordingly, every mariner needs to know the symptoms of cold induced sicknesses, effecting his own and also his fellow’s bodies, as well as their effective prevention and treatment. Also for that reason, officers operating in cold climates are even more obliged to establish safe working conditions than in any other sea area – which also includes reduction of outside work and providing of protective cloths.13 As mentioned before there is a strong demand for further safety strategies when considering the case of abandon ship: Polar survival techniques, on-ice launching procedures for survival crafts as well as fire fighting strategies in a freezing environment have to be part of regular safety drills. 11 12 13 Q.v. Chapter 3.2.1. Q.v. International Maritime Organization (2006), p4ff. Cf. American Bureau of Shipping (2009), p.19; also: American Bureau of Shipping (2008), p.90ff. 06 ICE NAVIGATION 3.2 // Current Situation The following gives a short overview of the traffic through sea areas affected by ice. Given that a profound study of winter traffic flows is not part of this thesis no in-depth research was conducted on this topic. Later on the present regulations regarding training and certification of ice-navigators are discussed. 3.2.1 // Traffic Situation Given the numbers of Finnish port calls between December 2002 and April 2003 (863 vessels)14 and the port of Quebec statistics for 2008, recording a total handled tonnage of 27.2 million15, with incessant traffic through summer and winter, the main shipping traffic affected by ice is still found in the Baltic and on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Regarding these figures, the use of polar seaways can be neglected today. In his article “Schiffspassagen in der Arktis”16, Dr.-Ing. Günter Bossow states that the traffic through the polar routes north of Russia (NSR) and North of Canada (NWP) is still on a very low level. As per his account passages of the Northern Sea Route have plummeted after the breakdown of the Soviet Union, owing to high maintenance expenses [for nuclear ice-breakers and administration; author’s note]. Furthermore he cites the Canadian Coast Guard providing figures of approximately 150 full passages through the North West Passage during the last 100 years. In consequence of the forward-looking Antarctic Treaty from 1951, interdicting exploitation of continental resources, the southern ocean routes are primarily reserved to research vessels conducting studies or supplying Antarctic bases, and cruise ships during southern summer months. Cf. Hänninen (2003), p. 4. Cf. Quebec Port Authorities (2008), p. 6. 16 Bossow (2009), p. 86ff. 14 15 07 ICE NAVIGATION Figure 2: RV “Polarstern” at Rothera Base, Antarctica Hannes Grobe, Alfred Wegener Institute, 1994 17 3.2.2 // Educational situation The Standards on Training, Certification and Watchkeeping are binding guidelines for the contents in global maritime education, published by the International Maritime Organization, a sub-agency of the United Nations. Ice-navigation has not yet become part of these regulations, leaving the responsibility of implementation to the curriculum at the nautical schools themselves. Some northern universities like the Marstal Navigationsskole in Denmark and Aboa Mare in Finland have designed Ice Navigator courses which are offered publicly but also for their own students. Since these courses are designed for Baltic ice-navigation, further elaboration for Arctic waters – providing totally different ice regimes – needs to be carried out in case of increasing traffic on Polar seaways. The majority of nautical schools do not provide such sophisticated courses though. The HS Bremen for instance has chosen to teach basics of ice handling within the scope of the obligatory course ‘Manövrieren’18, not exceeding a time expenditure of two lessons.19 Existing e-learning programs for training of ice-navigation skills will be mentioned in chapter 4.2. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e0/ Polarstern_othera_hg.jpg [as of 29.09.09]. 18 Manövrieren (German): Manoeuvring. 19 Cf. Hochschule Bremen (2004), p. 25. 17 08 ICE NAVIGATION 3.3 // Perspective Figure 3: Arctic seaways Handelsblatt (25.09.09) During the past years, broader public interest has been aroused by prospective arctic seaways. Due to global warming, both, the NWP and the NSR tend to be ice-free during summer months and offer impressive shortcuts for marine transportation. According to Bossow the distance between Rotterdam and Yokohama is 34.4% shorter through the NSR and 24.6% shorter through the NWP than the route through the Suez Canal.20 The graphic above illustrates both routes and their opportunities. Non-mandatory definitions for required training and certification standards have been published by organisations and classification societies throughout the past years in this context. The fundamental IMO “Guidelines for ships operating in arctic ice-covered waters”21 introduced in 2002 which are directing member governments’ attention to the appropriate precautions to be taken for Arctic ship operations are important to be mentioned in this context. 20 21 Cf. Bossow (2009), p. 88f. International Maritime Organization (2002a). 09 ICE NAVIGATION These guidelines and publications like the DNV “Ice-Navigation Standard”22 have been charting the course to a comprehensive review of the STCW convention and code. Finally in 2009, Norway presented a draft-proposal for “Training requirements for ships operating in ice-covered waters”23 to the IMO Sub-committee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping in its 40th session. Once these requirements would be introduced to Chapter V, Section A of the STCW code – as proposed – it will be necessary for nautical schools and shipping companies to have adequate training concepts on hand. 22 23 Det Norske Veritas (2008). International Maritime Organization (2008). 10 E-LEARNING 4 // E-Learning E-learning is a collective term for educational methods using computers for medial presentation of class topics. These different applications and ideas will be discussed below. 4.1 // Definitions Throughout this thesis the generic expression ‘e-learning’ is used to denote a range of telemedia- and multimedia-based applications used for vocational training. The definitions ‘computer based training’ (CBT) and ‘web based training’ (WBT) are commonly used, although not being completely accurate, since a CBT is not necessarily limited to offline distribution.24 Consequently this term will be used do describe all kinds of courses designed for PC-studying. To improve the understanding of Chapter 5 coping with didactical and technical realisation of this work’s CBT, additional e-learning theory will be introduced next. 4.1.1 // Didactical Formats In simple terms the didactical approach can be divided into models of content-transmission and models animating the learner to internal – self-active – content-processing. The former, according to Kerres, are often described as behaviouristic approaches, the latter try to implement cognitive considerations.25 The classical behaviourism resorts to a Stimulus-Response-Model to explain the connection between presented knowledge and learning success. Herein it is simply presumed that during one’s life time a response will be learned for every stimulus and reproduced in similar situations.26 Cf. Kerres (2001), p. 14. Cf. ibid., p. 145ff. 26 Cf. Bednorz/Schuster (2002), p. 11. 24 25 11 E-LEARNING Extended cognitive theories are relating to ideas that describe human information-processing and the internal procedures for information storage.27 Herein the learning situation is evaluated under more complex circumstances than the plain Stimulus-Response-Model. This is demonstrated exemplary by an experiment where rats successfully transferred their internalised experience in a dry maze to a completely new situation when the maze was flooded.28 The diagram below illustrates the different media-didactical approaches according to Kerres. Figure 4: Media-didactical approaches Own diagram after: Kerres (2001), p. 146 + 147 4.1.2 // Learning Management Systems Due to its relevance for the learning module described herein, the development of Learning Management Systems (LMS) has to be summarised at this point. These LMS emerged from a symbiosis of Web 2.029 communities along with the immense growth of e-learning content in the past years. All these tools share characteristic functions: A content management system for instructors, communication possibilities between all participants, forum for discussion, learning-status control and web-based tests. Cf. ibid. (2002), p. 15. Cf. Borger/Seaborne (1966), p. 70. 29 Web 2.0: Meaning the change from classic central-hosted web pages to social computing solutions, where users act as authors. 27 28 12 E-LEARNING Most of the learning management systems can resort to these tests and status information in order to manage access to succeeding chapters. In 2009, Web 2.0-influence on e-learning systems has been discussed in the study “Review of Learning 2.0 practices” by Dr. Christine Redecker at the Institute for Prospective Technological Studies30. Concluding, the ‘pedagogical innovation’ through social computing is amongst others characterised by networking between students as well as instructors, addressing a wide range of users with different prior knowledge and a response “to the changed cognitive processes and learning patterns that have evolved due to the […] use of information and communication technologies […].”31 In a similar vein one important finding in recent e-learning studies is that the aim of modern learning environments should not be to replace the teacher but to improve the teaching situation by mutual communication.32 4.2 // Applications At the moment, the leading developer of professional maritime e-training courses is Seagull AS from Norway33 with prices of some hundred dollars per module. They also developed an e-learning module for ice-navigation, which can be bought by subscribers to their service. The market of learning management systems is flooded by multiple vendors, hence being subject to frequent changes. Presently ILIAS and Moodle (Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment) are wide spread and recommended.34 The nautical schools of Bremen, Elsfleth and Leer are using ILIAS; the school in Warnemünde is working with solutions provided by the HochschulInformations-System GmbH35. Institute for Prospective Technological Studies (IPTS): An Institute of the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission 31 Redecker (2009), p. 89. 32 Cf. Siffri et al (2006), p. 10. 33 Cf. Seagull webpage: http://www.seagull.no/seagullweb/ index.aspx, [as of 17.09.09] 34 Cf. University of Koblenz/Landau webpage: http://www.uni-koblenz-landau.de/koblenz/iwm/service/eval/ lcmsevaluation [as of 08.10.09]. 35 Hochschul-Informations-System GmbH (German): Higher Education Information System Ltd. [as of 08.10.09]. 30 13 E-LEARNING An upcoming project by the German e-learning developer MarineSoft is a Marine Learning Management System based on the Moodle technology in order to bring maritime training modules together.36 Nautical students from Elsfleth have already prepared several self-made ILIAS modules on navigation and seamanship topics in the past which are available for students through the webpage ‘maritime-elearning.org’, hosted by the MARIKO.RIS37. At this point, established ship handling simulator courses during nautical education have to be mentioned as exceptionally sophisticated computer based training courses. In a cooperation of the renowned Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute in St. Petersburg together with leading simulator developers like Transas and Zora, ice-simulator plug-ins were developed, giving ship handling simulators the capability of calculating ice-physics and to realistically display ice-affected waters.38 Furthermore the ice-navigation specialist Enfotec Technical Services39 from Canada offers a range of training and simulation software. The e-learning module compiled through this work could, for example, be used as preparatory course for subsequent simulator training, giving first practical experience in ice-navigation. This combination of theory and praxis will end up in a higher learning success, as touched in chapter 4.4. Q.v. MarineSoft LMS webpage: http://212.204.62.68:2424/moodle/. 37 MARIKO.RIS: Maritimes Kompetenzzentrum, Elsfleth (German: Maritime Competence Centre). 38 Cf. Transas webpage: http://www.transas.com/products/ simulators/sim_products/navigational/special/ice/ [as of 08.10.09] and Zora webpage: http://www.zora.ru/eng/?a=show&id=56 [as of 08.10.09]. 39 Cf. Enfotec webpage: http://www.enfotec.com/. 36 14 E-LEARNING 4.3 // Advantages and Disadvantages In the beginning high expectations in e-learning were rooted in the commercial aim to cut down costs for vocational training by reduced schooling time, off-work time and travel expenses. Although these goals have principally been achieved by computer-training, new expectations and prospects have risen.40 Particularly web based solutions have lead to a new learning culture of individuals connected to a globalised knowledge building community.41 Basic advantages of e-learning in maritime aspects are: global availability, and self-organisation of learning time, according to work shifts. Furthermore, the content of modules can be updated to latest regulatory standards, company policy or scientific research results. The disadvantages of e-learning courses are obviously lying close to the benefits. As a consequence of self-control possibilities, the learner needs a high level of self-motivation in order to successfully complete the course. Additionally, the social skills of pupils can decrease due to isolation. As a result, the so-called ‘blended learning’ was developed, combining e-learning methods with presence training to guide the participants through the whole course and give individual feedback as well as increasing motivation by using different learning strategies.42 The illustration on the next page demonstrates the idea of blended learning and the interaction of face to face-, online collaborativeand self paced learning. Cf. Kröger/Reisky (2004), p. 21f. Q.v. chapter 4.1.2; also chapter 6. 42 Cf. Kröger/Reisky (2004), p. 23. 40 41 15 E-LEARNING Figure 5: Schematic Idea of Blended Learning Own diagram after: Hamdan Bin Mohammed e-University, Dubai43 4.4 // Conclusion As shown before, motivation to learn is of utmost importance regarding e-learning programs and has to be achieved by company policy and shipboard management. In 2006, Helen Sampson, director of the Seafarers’ International Research Centre, published results of a study on ‘Seafarer perceptions of CBT on board’, showing that sailors are willing to spend a considerable amount of time for CBT on board, which should be facilitated by companies through granting free-time.44 Within the national research project SEMICS (Smart Electronic Maritime Information and Communication System) a Beluga internal seminar similarly showed that captains and officers would appreciate the availability of e-learning possibilities on board.45 Cf. http://www.hbmeu.ae/en/elearning/about/ [as of 12.10.09]. Cf. Sampson (2006). 45 Werner (2009), conversation on 01.10.2009. 43 44 16 E-LEARNING An important remark by Sampson is that time spent for e-learning must not be seen as recreational time and has to be compensated on board.46 However, if motivation can be created on-board, the combination of self-studying and interaction with experienced colleagues will result in a high learning success. In this context an IMO Circular from 2002 on computer based training for seafarers, states that individuals might not be able to put the load of knowledge transported through a CBT into practice without support and human interaction.47 When applying this conclusion to ice-navigation training, it is expectable that an increased learning success will be achieved by the well conversant captain through offering possibilities for practical involvement. Therefore he should try to let the officers gather their own experience in manoeuvring and ship handling to help them become safe ice-navigators themselves. 46 47 Cf. Sampson (2006). Cf. International Maritime Organization (2002b). 17 TRAINING MODULE 5 // Training Module This chapter describes the ice-navigation learning module created through this work. It will give a description of the technical background followed by the structural and didactical design of subjects. 5.1 // Technical Specifications During the development of internet applications several technical aspects have to be taken into consideration in order to reach a certain status of platform-independence, browser-independence, attractiveness and transfer-speed.48 In the following, this approach will be explained after an introduction to the learning management system ILIAS. 5.1.1 // ILIAS By using a learning management system, the efficiency of the training module can be raised through repetitive tests and access management as stated above. Furthermore broad access to the module for nautical students enrolled at HS Bremen can be granted and future improvement of the module by multiple authors could be achieved. In consequence it was chosen to compile the CBT on basis of the open source49 learning management system ILIAS, which is used as web-based learning platform by the concerned University of Applied Sciences, Bremen. ILIAS has a high reputation due to its usability and adaptability for universities, schools and companies50 and is recommended by the intergovernmental Commonwealth of Learning in its 2003 survey report “COL LMS Open Source – June 25, 2003”51. The illustration below shows the customisable ILIAS learning portal of the HS Bremen, called AULIS. Cf. Herzwurm/Trittmann (2003), p. 48ff. Open source: Computer programs published free of charge and with open source codes, for further third-party development and adjustment. 50 Cf. Henning et al. (2007), p. 19. 18 51 Cf. Commonwealth of Learning (2003), p.14. 48 49 TRAINING MODULE Figure 6: AULIS Personal Desktop HS Bremen52 Finally ILIAS was also chosen to ensure portability and compatibility of the module with e-learning platforms maintained by different nautical schools like Bremen, Elsfleth and Leer. For this purpose the program is equipped with the possibility to export and import complete learning modules to various installations and thus maintaining their full performance including tests and access management. Additionally, ILIAS gives the option to export offline HTML modules that can be stored on CD53 and in this case used as electronic reference book for officers on board. This version offers exactly the same content and structure like the online module, but is not capable of tests, test-based access management and of course the communicative benefits of the learning management system. 52 53 Cf. https://www.aulis.hs-bremen.de [as of 29.09.09]. Appendix A. 19 TRAINING MODULE It has to be mentioned that learning-status control for students as well as instructors, as touched on in Chapter 4.1.2 is, for matters of privacy, restricted by the HS Bremen and can only be used on other ILIAS copies.54 5.1.2 // Programming The basic programming was realised with the built-in ILIAS learning module editor amended by executable HTML code providing a wider range of formatting and layout options. The editor allows future amendments and maintenance by authorised users. Furthermore, a personalised Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) was created to reach the design expectations, defining the specific appearance of text components, hyperlinks and different – visible and invisible – table cell properties. A resolution-independent presentation for commonly used monitor settings55 was achieved by fitting the site content into a horizontally centred table with a fixed width of 900 pixels and through the use of before mentioned CSS. Graphic elements like header, footer and pictures were created and adapted with Adobe Photoshop CS 4 and CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3. Finally, the Flash export functionality of OpenOffice Impress 3.1.1 was used for designing the implemented animations. 5.1.3 // System Requirements The system requirements could be sustained on a relatively low level since it was generally adhered to the ILIAS editor’s functionality as advised by Dr. Ulrike Wilkens, director of the Media Competence Center (MMCC) at the University of Applied Sciences Bremen.56 Wilkens (2009), conversation on 12.08.09. It is expected that commonly used monitor settings start from a minimal resolution of 1024x768 pixels. 56 Wilkens (2009), conversation on 12.08.09. 54 55 20 TRAINING MODULE As a result, the offline version of the training module can be used on literally every computer with an installed web browser like Microsoft Internet Explorer. For the proper display of animations Adobe Flash has to be installed supplementary on the system. The offline module, being a plain HTML web page, does not need any setup or installation procedures. The online version with full possibilities in context of the LMS and continuative web-links can of course only be used with an available internet connection and the user has to be logged-in to the ILIAS server. These little requirements ensure compatibility of the module on every PC used onboard modern vessels and at educational institutions. 5.2 // Target Group The potential users of the CBT compiled by this thesis are considered to be intrigued nautical students in their advanced study period and seagoing officers intending to work on ships operating in iceinfested waters. Both, students and officers are familiar with computer work due to their profession. Therefore, the target group can be expected to be able to cope with hyper-textual structure and medial objects. At least the first group is characterised by a high motivation to enlarge personal knowledge. However this attribute should also be expected from an officer who seeks for new challenges by conducting a voyage to icy waters. The target group has at any rate gathered elementary experience in navigating and manoeuvring ships of more than 500 gross tonnage in various weather conditions and is basically acquainted to shipboard operations. A basic-safety-training according to STCW 95 has been attended.57 57 Both can be presumed since nautical students have to serve their first practical term on board SOLAS vessels. 21 TRAINING MODULE 5.3 // Structure and Subjects The following chapter describes the didactical structure and content of the module. After a presentation of targets and structure, the didactical layout will be described. 5.3.1 // Targets After successful completion of the module, the participants have demonstrated broad knowledge on ice-related ship handling. They will be equipped with a profound basic knowledge, facilitating the beginning of their ice-navigation career and making the ice-navigation safer for all involved parties. Furthermore the module provides an electronic ice-navigation reference book for officers on board, who either want to recapitulate personal experience on certain topics, or find useful information in advance of ice contacts. 5.3.2 // Disposition and Content The module’s thematic disposition is derived from the framework of the Norwegian “Training requirements for ships operating in icecovered waters” and can be found in Appendix B-1. The interim assessments have been placed in consistent intervals and always cover all topics dealt with since the last test. Following the disposition the first finalises the thematic group of ‘Ice Characteristics’ and ‘Vessel Performance’. The second test will be conducted after ‘Operation and Handling’, ‘Equipment Limitations’ and ‘Rules and Regulations’. A third one is placed after ‘Working Conditions’ and the final assessment covering the whole module is scheduled after completion of the last chapter ‘Environmental Factors’. Every topic has an initial introduction page, presenting the contents that will be taught. This helps the user to retrace his progress and is a structuring element guiding through the thematic chapters.58 58 Cf. Mair (2005), p. 58. 22 TRAINING MODULE The content was gathered by the study of various sources which can be found in the learning module’s bibliography. Generally, it must be pointed out that the module does not want to unduly extend the contents, since the subject is already highly diversified. The basic formula for the content should be: “As much as necessary to achieve the learning aim, but as little as possible.”59 At the same time by means of external links and further reading suggestions the highly interested learner gets various possibilities for more profound studies. 5.3.3 // Didactical Structure It was chosen to combine the aspects of a linear with a hypertextual structure as a hybrid form of the instructional paradigm, where the instructors determine the learning process, and the problem-solving paradigm, where the learners can discover their own way through the contents.60 As seen in Appendix B-2, the user can navigate freely between all topics of the thematic groups mentioned above, as far as no test is required to go on. On the one hand this follows the perception of a target group that is basically acquainted with internet use and seriously interested in the provided content, on the other hand this ensures that no topic will be completely skipped.61 Although, the module generally follows the knowledge transmission model as described in chapter 4.1.1, the interconnection of the learning module’s contents and external information sources is part of a cognitive approach, encouraging the student to explorative self-study activities and reflection. For the distinction of internal and external links, different icons are used and external links as well as glossary references will open in a new browser window. Supplementary ideas on this interactive approach will be demonstrated in the perspective in chapter 6. Cf. ibid, p. 48; Original: “So viel, wie für das Lernziel nötig, doch so wenig wie möglich.” 60 Cf. Bayertz/Hölscher, p.15. 61 Cf. ibid.; also: Herzwurm/Trittmann, p. 54ff. 59 23 TRAINING MODULE 5.3.4 // Tests Each intermediate test covers the subjects discussed in the previous chapters and is generated randomly out of a pool of questions. The scale of the tests varies slightly due to the amount of topics. Throughout the work on the test, the recalling of past contents, after a period of coping with different matters, contributes to the process of memorising.62 In order not to de-motivate the participants through monotony, a variety of question types was used.63 The pool of questions is composed of multiple choice questions, image-map questions, sequence-questions, classification questions and free text questions. Multiple keywords are used as correct answer for the free text questions. By completion of a test, the user gathers access to the following parts of the learning module and gets a feedback on his learning status. After passing the final test the participant has proven a basic knowledge of all facets of ice seamanship and a certificate could be handed out. As long as the topics are not part of obligatory courses this could be used as contribution to the section of required elective courses in the nautical education at HS Bremen. However, for this purpose, it would be advisable to half-yearly amend the test and conduct it in a class-situation. 62 63 Cf. Hametner (2006), p. 44. Cf. ibid. 24 TRAINING MODULE 5.4 // Layout The optical layout of a computer based training module is essential for the learner’s success. Subsequently, the page concept with its navigational structure will be explained, followed by a brief description of text presentation and illustrations. 5.4.1 // Page Concept and Navigation The illustration below shows the standard screen of the learning module. Figure 7: Learning Module: Page Layout When setting the concept for a page layout, the general intention was to arrange a clearly structured, simple but appealing graphic interface. A picture of an ice covered landscape is framing the information, but not confining it due to the open sides. 25 TRAINING MODULE This permanently present frame allows the user to familiarise with the module and appeals to pictorial storage abilities while reading the site content, thus giving the possibility of increased learning success.64 As seen, the user can determine his actual position throughout the module from the intuitive menu structure at all times. Each of the topics is listed in the top menu and the active chapter will be highlighted with red colour. Furthermore the breadcrumb trail, a textual visualisation of the document’s path below the main menu, indicates the progress through the active chapter and shows the further way. At every stage of the module, the assessments and glossary can be reached by links in the top right corner. As mentioned before, the learner has the option to follow the linear composition of the module. For this purpose, navigational elements are placed at the bottom of each page to move back and forth. In order to improve the usability, universal and selfexplanatory icons are used for this purpose, as well as for labeling and distinguishing internal and external links.65 5.4.2 // Text Due to the monitor based presentation, the learning module’s text is formatted with a ‘sans-serif’ font, which has an increased readability on low resolutions. This is further enhanced by increased line spacing and frequent paragraph breaks.66 Since studies have shown that people tend to scan, rather than read, when confronted with on-screen text presentation, the learner’s reading progress is directed by highlights throughout the module.67 Bold accentuation of keywords and phrases improves their memorisation and helps making the context recallable in the future.68 Cf. Bednorz/Schuster (2002), p. 152. Cf. Hametner (2006), p. 34; also: Mair (2005), p. 127. 66 Cf. Hametner (2006), p. 35. 67 Cf. ibid. p. 35f. 68 Cf. Bednorz/Schuster (2002), p. 202. 64 65 26 TRAINING MODULE 5.4.3 // Illustration As touched in chapter 5.3.3, small icons are used in order to distinguish internal from external links as well as book resources. This improves the understanding and handling of the hypertextual structure. Photos and diagrams support the understanding of complex content (e.g. Development of Katabatic Winds on page “Weather Changes”) or illustrate the provided information (e.g. Polar Stereographic Projection on page “Nautical Charts”). Besides those pictures, stereotyped comic strips of a virtual bridge crew, serve as role model for the learner. Figure 8: Illustrating role models e.g. 2nd officer handing ice-chart to the master (page “Risk assessment”) Since every mariner can relate to these situations this helps identifying with the module from the first page as an on-signer to the last page as experienced ice navigator.69 Moreover, these pictures can serve as retrieval-cues, smoothing the recall process in similar situations, since information from the cognitive surrounding is conjointly committed to memory with the learning matter.70 69 70 Cf. Mair (2005), p. 63. Cf. Bednorz/Schuster (2002), p. 140. 27 TRAINING MODULE For the chapter “Ice-breaker assistance”, animations are used to enhance the understanding of ice-breaker manoeuvres used to free beset vessels. Since these operations might not be understandable by textual explanations, it was chosen to design Flash animations showing the manoeuvring sequence. With regard to each learner’s pace, the animations are not running automatically, but each step hast to be acknowledged and breaks can be used as reflectiontime.71 71 Cf. Hametner (2006), p.41. 28 CONCLUSION AND PERSPECTIVE 6 // Conclusion and Perspective Concluding, it should be noted that e-learning can never completely replace traditional teaching and practical experience. For that reason the ideas of blended learning and learning communities should be regarded as enhancement showing unlimited ideas of new educational forms. The renowned Swiss Centre for Innovations in Learning at the University of St. Gallen recently presented a study on ‘Next Generation Leadership’ quoting the 70/20/10 rule of American Express employee qualification: “… 70% of personnel development are conducted on-the-job, 20% are coaching and mentoring, 10% courses and seminars.”72 This can be easily transferred to nautical education which originally puts high expectations in on-the-job training. The parts of coaching and mentoring, as well as courses and seminars, can be effectively supported by combination with e-learning modules and learning communities. Through the advantages of Web 2.0 communities, the learning environments can be updated at every single moment and participants can change from learner to teacher in split-seconds. A famous example for such ‘Knowledge-Building Communities’73 is the free encyclopaedia Wikipedia74 which spurted within the past years. One of the latest developments in this sector was SLOODLE (Simulation Linked Object Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment), a project combining the functionalities of Moodle with the interactivity of the multi-user virtual environment Second Life in order to improve communication between all parties.75 Schwuchow (2008), p. 12; Original: “…70% der Personalentwicklung findet on-the-job statt, 20% in Form von Coaching und Mentoring, 10% als Kurse und Seminare.“ 73 Cf. Scardamalia/Bereiter (1994), p. 1ff. 74 Wiki (Hawaiian: fast): A hypertext system where users can not only read but also edit content; cf. www.wikipedia.org. 29 75 Q.v. Sloodle webpage: http://www.sloodle.org. 72 CONCLUSION AND PERSPECTIVE In the context of an inter-university learning platform, based on ILIAS or a comparable learning management system, e-learning modules could, in a similar way, unite a mass of nautical students and experts. Seagoing officers, university professors and students could be provided with authoring rights enabling them to exchange knowledge and experiences. Different communities combining, for instance, ice-navigators, heavy-lift experts or cruise ship officers could interact in such a platform. A first approach to convey these possibilities to maritime education has commenced in 2008 by the foundation of the Northern Maritime University connecting several maritime universities and stakeholders from maritime business.76 However the project is presently mainly focusing on maritime business management77, an implementation of navigational knowledge in the future seems conceivable. These concepts have the power to drastically impact educational structures and can offer a global, steadily improving, ‘Maritime Knowledge Database’. “Training is everything. The peach was once a bitter almond; cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education.” Mark Twain, Pudd‘nhead Wilson (1894) Q. v. Northern Maritime University webpage: http://www.nsr.nm-uni.eu. 77 Hahn (2009), via e-mail on 02.09.09. 76 30 BIBLIOGRAPHY Bibliography American Bureau of Shipping (2008) Guide for Vessels operating in Low Temperature Environments, Houston, URL: http://www.eagle.org/absdownloads/listdetails.cfm ?id=374, [as of 15.09.09] American Bureau of Shipping (2009) Low Temperature Operations. Guidance for Arctic Shipping, Houston, URL: http://www.eagle.org/eagleExternalPortalWEB/ ShowProperty/BEA%20Repository/References/Booklets/2009/ LowTemperatureOperations, [as of 15.09.09] Avci, Oral et al. (Eds.) (2003) Web-Programmierung. Softwareentwicklung mit InternetTechnologien – Grundlagen, Auswahl, Einsatz – XHTML & HTML, CSS, XML, JavaScript, VBScript, PHP, ASP, Java, Wiesbaden Bayertz, Sylvia / Hölscher, Ursula Road Map. Leitfaden zur Erstellung von Lernmodulen aus Skripten für den Präsenzunterricht, Trier, URL: http://www.fh-trier.de/ fileadmin/groups/35/PDFs/Roadmap_fht.pdf, [as of 29.09.09] Bednorz, Peter / Schuster, Martin (2002) Einführung in die Lernpsychologie, 3rd Edition, Munich/Basel Borger, Robert / Seaborne A. E. M. (1966) The Psychology of Learning, Aylesbury Bossow, Günter (2009) Schiffspassagen in der Arktis in: Schiff & Hafen 1/2009, p. 86-89, Hamburg 31 BIBLIOGRAPHY Braune, Gerd (2009) Klimawandel öffnet Eismeer-Transit in: Handelsblatt 25.09.2009, p. 6, Düsseldorf Buysse, Johan (2007) Handling Ships in Ice. A practical guide to handling Class 1A and 1AS ships, London Commonwealth of Learning (2003) COL LMS Open Source, Vancouver, URL: http://www.col.org/ SiteCollectionDocuments/03LMSOpenSource.pdf, [as of: 14.09.09] Cummings, Pete (2009) The Sinking Of Titanic. How Fate And Human Error Combined To Sink The Unsinkable, URL: http://ukirishhistory.suite101.com/ article.cfm/the_sinking_of_titanic, [as of 13.10.09] Det Norske Veritas (2008) Competence of Officers for Navigation in Ice, Høvik Euler, Dieter (Ed.) (2008) Next Generation Leadership. Die neue Rolle der Führungskraft in nachhaltigen Lernkulturen. Scil Arbeitsbericht 19, Oktober 2008, St. Gallen Hahn, Matthias (2009) E-mail on 02.09.09, Diploma Student at Northern Maritime University/University of Applied Sciences Kiel, Sokratesplatz 2, 24149, Kiel Hametner, Karin (2006) Qualitätskriterien für Content in: Jandl, Maria (Ed.): Qualitätskriterien für E-Learning. Ein Leitfaden für Lehrer/innen, Lehrende und ContentErsteller/innen, p. 32-48, Vienna 32 BIBLIOGRAPHY Hänninen, Samuli (2003) Incidents and Accidents in Winter Navigation in the Baltic Sea. Winter 2002-2003, Eds.: Finnish Maritime Administration, Helsinki; Swedish Maritime Administration, Norrköpping, URL:http://portal.fma.fi/portal/page/portal/fma_fi/merenkulun _palvelut/talvimerenkulku/tutkimus/No54.pdf, [as of 16.08.09] Hartmann, Peter (2007) Kosten und Nutzen von beruflicher Weiterbildung, University of Paderborn, Diploma Thesis Henning, Jacqueline et al (2007) ILIAS – Die Open Source Lernplattform. Handbuch für Nutzer, Dozenten und Administratoren, Berlin Herzwurm, Georg / Trittmann, Ralph (2003) Qualität von Internet-Anwendungen, in: Avci, Oral et al. (Eds.): WebProgrammierung. Softwareentwicklung mit Internet-Technologien – Grundlagen, Auswahl, Einsatz – XHTML & HTML, CSS, XML, JavaScript, VBScript, PHP, ASP, Java, Wiesbaden Hochschule Bremen (2004) Curriculum Nautik, Bremen International Maritime Organization (2002a) Guidelines for Ships operating in Arctic ice-covered waters. MSC/Circ.1056, London International Maritime Organization (2002b) Issues to be considered when integrating computer-based technologies into the training and assessment of seafarers. STCW.7/Circ.13, London International Maritime Organization (2006) A pocket guide to Cold Water Survival, 3rd Edition, London 33 BIBLIOGRAPHY International Maritime Organization (2008) Comprehensive Review of the STCW Convention and the STCW Code. Chapter V of the STCW Convention and Code. Training requirements for ships operating in ice-covered waters. Submitted by Norway. STW 40/7/24, London Jandl, Maria (Ed.) (2006) Qualitätskriterien für E-Learning. Ein Leitfaden für Lehrer/innen, Lehrende und Content-Ersteller/innen, Vienna Kerres, Michael (2001) Multimediale und telemediale Lernumgebungen. Konzeption und Entwicklung, 2nd Edition, Munich/Vienna Kröger, Helga / Reisky, Antares (2004) Blended Learning – Erfolgsfaktor Wissen in: Meder, Norbert (Ed.): Wissen und Bildung im Internet, Band 6, Bielefeld Liberian Bureau of Maritime Affairs (2009) Decision of the Commissioner of Maritime Affairs, R.L. and the Report of Investigation in the Matter of Sinking of Passenger Vessel EXPLORER (O.N. 8495) 23 November 2007 in the Bransfield Strait near the South Shetland Islands, URL:http://www.photobits.com/dl/Explorer%20-%20Final% 20Report.PDF, [as of 13.10.09] Mair, Daniela (2005) E-Learning – Das Drehbuch. Handbuch für Medienautoren und Projektleiter, Berlin/Heidelberg Natke, Thilo (2009) Conversation on 26.09.09, Captain of the “MS Hanseatic”, HapagLloyd Cruises, Ballindamm 25, 20095 Hamburg 34 BIBLIOGRAPHY Quebec Port Authorities (2008) 2008 Annual Report, URL: http://www.portquebec.ca/images/ stories/pdf/Port-A-R-2008-ang.pdf, [as of 16.09.09] Redecker Christine (2009) Review of Learning 2.0 Practices: Study on the Impact of Web 2.0 Innovations on Education and Training in Europe, Ed: European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Prospective Technological Studies, Seville, URL: http://ftp.jrc.es/EURdoc/ JRC49108.pdf, [as of 21.09.09] Sampson, Helen (2006) Learning at sea in: The Sea, Issue 179/06 (“This article first appeared in The Sea, published by The Mission to Seafarers”), URL: http://www.sirc.cf.ac.uk/The%20Sea/179%20jan-feb%202006. pdf, [as of 06.10.09] Scardamalia, Marlene / Bereiter, Carl (1993) Computer support for Knowledge-Building Communities in: The Journal of the Learning Sciences, 3/1993, p. 265-283, Abingdon Schwuchow, Karlheinz (2008) Next Generation Leadership: Zentrale Trends der Führungskräfteentwicklung in Euler, Dieter (Ed.): Next Generation Leadership. Die neue Rolle der Führungskraft in nachhaltigen Lernkulturen. Scil Arbeitsbericht 19, Oktober 2008, p. 5-15, St. Gallen Siffri, Anastasia et al (2006) Qualitätskriterien für Didaktik in: Jandl, Maria (Ed.): Qualitätskriterien für E-Learning. Ein Leitfaden für Lehrer/innen, Lehrende und ContentErsteller/innen, p. 10-31, Vienna spring Messe Management (2009) Weiterbildung in der Krise – Spreu vom Weizen trennen, Mannheim, URL:http://www.openpr.de/news/287582/Weiterbildung-in-derKrise-Spreu-vom-Weizen-trennen.html, [as of 01.10.09] 35 BIBLIOGRAPHY Werner, Lars (2009) Conversation on 01.10.09, Project Coordinator, Beluga Shipping GmbH, Research & Innovation, Am Deich 86, 28199 Bremen Wilkens, Ulrike (2009) Conversation on 12.08.09, Director of the Media Competence Center (HS Bremen), Flughafenallee 10, 28199 Bremen 36 APPENDIX Appendix Appendix A: Training Module Ice-Navigation on CD 38 Appendix B-1: Thematic Disposition of the Training Module 39 Appendix B-2: Hypertextual Structure of the Training Module 41 37 APPENDIX Appendix A: Training Module Ice-Navigation on CD This appendix provides the offline version of the ice-navigation training module stored on CD. The active ILIAS module on the AULIS installation of the HSBremen can be reached under: https://www.aulis.hs-bremen.de/ilias.php?baseClass=ilLMPresentati onGUI&ref_id=141649 38 APPENDIX Appendix B: Complementary diagram and table This appendix provides a table and a diagram illustrating the content and didactical structure of the learning module. Appendix B-1: Thematic Disposition of the Training Module 1.Course introduction 2. Ice characteristics 2.1 Index – Ice characteristics 2.2 Ice coverage 2.3 Ice types 2.4 Ice pressure 2.5Ridged ice 2.6 Spray-icing 2.7 Ice regimes 2.8 Weather changes 3. Vessel performance 3.1 Index – Vessel performance 3.2 Ice classes 3.3 Winterization 3.4 System performance 4. Interim test 5. Operation and handling 5.1 Index – Operation and handling 5.2Risk assessment 5.3 Unassisted operation 5.4 Safe speed 5.5 Ice-breaker assistance 5.6 Safe routeing 5.7 Ice charts 5.8 Machinery factors 5.9 Ballast and trim 39 APPENDIX 6.Equipment limitations 6.1 Index – Equipment limitations 6.2 High-latitude errors on compasses 6.3 Use of radar 6.4Electronic positioning systems 6.5 Nautical charts 6.6Communication systems 7.Rules and regulations 7.1 Index – Rules and regulations 7.2 Insurance limitations 7.3 Pilotage and reporting 7.4 Ice pilot 8. Interim test 9. Working conditions 9.1 Index – Working conditions 9.2 Search and rescue 9.3 Safe working procedures 9.4 Polar climate 9.5 Damages 9.6Abandon ship 9.7Fire fighting 9.8 Noise and vibration 9.9 Bunkers and stores 10 Interim test 11.Environmental factors 11.1 Index – Environmental factors 11.2 Special areas 11.3 Oil spill equipment 11.4 Garbage handling 11.5Consequences of pollution 12.Final test 40 aPPeNDIX appendix B-2: Hypertextual Structure of the Training Module for reason of clarity each link type is only presented exemplarily. as perceivable when using the module, the structure is much more complex in fact. The main navigation is available from each site and allows free movement through the module, whereas it also invites to follow the content step by step. 41 EHRENWÖRTLICHE ERKÄRUNG Ich versichere hiermit: dass ich die vorliegende Diplomarbeit mit dem Thema „Compilation of a computer based training module for the training and certification of officers navigating in ice affected waters“ selbständig verfasst und keine anderen als die angegebenen Hilfsmittel benutzt habe. dass ich dieses Diplomarbeitsthema bisher weder im In- noch im Ausland in irgendeiner Form als Prüfungsarbeit vorgelegt habe. dass diese Arbeit mit der vom Begutachter beurteilten Arbeit übereinstimmt. Bremen, 13. November 2009 42