IAMU Model Course on ECDIS

Annual General Assembly 2005 - Malmö

Section 1

IAMU Model Course on ECDIS

Adam WEINTRIT - Gdynia Maritime University, Poland

ABSTRACT

The revision of SOLAS, Chapter V, which entered into force on 1 July 2002, has firmly established the electronic navigational chart as part of the international maritime safety system. Its possible recognition as a paper chart equivalent confirms the considerable safety benefits provided by the official Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS).

Elaborated by the Author IAMU Model Course on operational use of ECDIS IAMU research project FY 2003) aims to provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding various types of electronic charts (ENC, RNC, DNC) and electronic chart systems (ECDIS, RCDS, ECS).

Following the earlier adoption of the International Convention STCW 78/95 and IMO model training courses, e.g. [2], to assist in the implementation of the Convention and the associated IMO Assembly resolutions, a number of IAMU Member Universities had suggested that IAMU should develop model-training courses on a higher academic level. This would assist in achieving a more rapid transfer of information and skills regarding new developments in marine technology. The provision of model courses could help instructors improve the quality of their existing courses and enhance their effectiveness in meeting the requirements of the IAMU.

In the paper, the Author presents the results of IAMU research project FY2004 sponsored by Nippon Foundation, entitled 'IAMU Handbook on ECDIS'.

Keywords: Navigation, GIS, ECDIS, ECS, Electronic Navigational Charts, Safety at Sea, Simulator, Model Course, Training, MET, IAMU, IMO, STCW.