Maritime training through virtual reality
The maritime industry demands specific education and training in order to help eliminate human error, a common cause of incidents and accidents at sea. Not surprisingly, seafarer training and certification is governed by a strict legal framework regulated by IMO (International Maritime Organization) which publishes model courses as guidelines. Within this structure, CBT (Computer based training) and e-learning have both been implemented. The SLIM-VRT project has managed to merge technology with teaching methods to create a consultancy tool which accommodates personalised e-learning in the maritime sector. Since the virtual reality tool acts as a simulator, persons in training can experience real conditions at sea in a more cost-effective way. Furthermore, courses can be selected according to individual needs. Besides technical expertise, modules also incorporate soft skills which are necessary in emergency situations. This highly adaptable virtual reality learning tool could be very promising not only for academic and training organisations but also for consulting and content producing companies alike.