Leveraging on Big Data to identify training gaps
As the industry transitions into digitalisation, training is not enough. Big data helps identify the gaps that closing
Training is essential, but it can be carried out more efficiently if shipowners and charterers are apprised of what training works and otherwise. It is also vital for captains to identify the safest team members, as well as those with the potential to be in leadership. To date, potential leaders are only identified through intuition, anecdotal information and experience. Having something far more accurate such as mined data nonetheless will enable more informed promotion decisions.
Big data has earned its reputation of being compelling in various domains. It ensured safer firefighting, thwarted fraudulent financial transactions and even minimised risks in the current pandemic environment. There are two main components about big data: its granularity, veracity of the volume, plus mining the data to reveal obscure patterns.
Benefits of data mining
Numerous trainees and experienced mariners worldwide are using technologies in both work and training. Each of these technologies can be a source of rich data used for simulation training, assessment systems, online learning systems, competency management systems, and recordings from vessel operations.
Macro data can be collected in forms of assignment, course grades and data from incident reports. Same for micro which can be gathered from duration of time spent on learning materials, answering test questions and navigating through learning content. Collecting streams of real-time navigational decisions and actions, equipment control input, and current conditions can reveal how seafarers learn and operate.
And mining it
Procurement of technology is the shortest route to collect data – from electronic training, administration and operational systems such as simulators, learning management systems, skill assessment systems, bridge navigation systems, HR and crewing systems and the like. The vendor may be able to advise what data can be recorded and exposed to build a robust and granular dataset for future data mining. Given it takes years to build datasets; it is wise to start early.
After collecting bulks of data, the next step is to mine it for insights. The most effective technique is through artificial intelligence called machine learning and there are tools available to make it possible. Maritime training will be of paramount importance to remain relevant in the industry. Once skill gaps are effectively identified, adequate training can be administered to enhance the crew’s performance.
About the author
Murray Goldberg is CEO of Marine Learning Systems which provides software and services to optimise knowledge, skills and behavior in maritime operators.
Source:
Maritime Professional