We are almost there: the completion of Poseidon, the new e-learning for the VTS training. Exactly according to plan, from January 2021 the e-learning will form an integral part of the course material in the Initial Training programme. Andreas Keller, Head of VTS training courses, has great expectations of the new digital learning environment.
The Poseidon modules consist of topography, simulator operation and basic communication. These parts have so far been trained on the simulator. The e-learning is organised in such a way that it prepares for further exercises on the simulator. With the introduction of Poseidon, the VTS training can be organised more efficiently and there are more possibilities for trainees to practice at home. After all, the availability of the simulator is limited and in the digital learning environment you can access your course material online any time.
Development and management
Andreas Keller from NNVO: “Our VTS advisers Jacob and Jaco have been very busy developing the course material, while educational expert Francoise devised a system to manage the content. Together with our partner TinQwise they have done a really good job.” In September the organisation of the e-learning was at such an advanced stage that it was decided to organise a pilot session with trainees. This yielded valuable feedback. “We have meanwhile processed this feedback and at this moment we are still further developing the content. This is an ongoing process which doesn’t stop when the e-learning goes operational. In January we will again ask feedback from the trainees, which we will then further deal with.”
Really new
Although the e-learning is still to be officially launched, the Head of the VTS training courses is already proud of the results. “Poseidon is really something new. It is interactive, user-friendly, has an attractive design and is fun to work with. Moreover, it’s got a lot of potential. We have now developed a digital learning environment for the VTS training, but we would like to extend this project to the Nautical Curricular Strands at NNVO. Also, for example, for the training of bridge and lock operators we see possibilities. And that is still not the ultimate goal, because in the future Poseidon may be interesting for our participants and other external parties.“
