The vivid experiences created using virtual reality technology offer unsurpassed scenario-based training opportunities. Now easily deployable at sea or on land, seafarers can play “serious games” with an autonomous device that generates interactive games designed to achieve specific training goals.
SQLearn has opened up this fascinating world on its Dolphin Platforms, focusing on the seafarer’s active participation in the learning matrix while reducing the time and cost of the training process.
Virtual Reality, the simulation of a three-dimensional environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real way, is not to be confused with augmented reality that simply superimposes a computer-generated image on a user’s view of the real world. Training using virtual reality can be as good as on a real life training situation.
Combining virtual reality technology with innovative e-learning resources has been shown to be particularly effective in industries that require familiarization with situations that would be dangerous, expensive or even impossible to simulate in real life.
Moving beyond the initial impact of the scenario, re-experiencing a mistake through simulation enables trainees to react again and build up their confidence and practical skills.
Applications of virtual reality technology in the maritime industry include ensuring crew have the experience they need to safely and efficiently deal with situations such as mooring operations, machinery adjustments, galley fires or engineroom explosions.
