Fire Fighting Training for Officers and Captains: A Problem Based Learning Approach

Cpt. Selçuk Nas, Cpt. Serim Paker

Dokuz Eylul University School of Maritime Business and Management

S. Nas

S. Paker

Abstract

Problem based learning (PBL) is a new and more effective method of training compared to traditional education systems, which has been applied in different types of disciplines with a great success. Previous academic research has found out that the candidates trained with PBL have higher curiosity for learning objectives, greater gained abilities, a longer time of remembrance also with sustainability of learning all through their work life.

In maritime academic training, PBL is not a commonly used training method. With all its well worthy properties, which will be described through this paper, PBL can match maritime training consistently. For this purpose Dokuz Eylül University, School of Maritime Business and Management is working on matching PBL in maritime training program with STCW 78/95.

Emergency procedures, which are one of the core subjects of maritime training, require specific methods and equipment according to SOLAS. Especially fire fighting course for officers and captains should be designed and held with diligence. As SMBM we have developed a new curriculum and a special LEARNING RESOURCES LABORATORY for fire fighting training in accordance with STCW 95 Section A-VI /1-2 "Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting" and Section A-VI /3 "Advanced Fire Fighting".

This paper describes our new Fire Fighting Training System complied with PBL, specifications of our Learning Resources Laboratory for Fire Fighting Training, and the methods used for learner satisfaction measurement.