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Description
The main objective of this project is to develop 4 training modules with the use of XR technology to offer maritime students training based on real-case scenarios that are related to their daily work obligations and safety requirements. As many onboard procedures are difficult and expensive to be simulated in real case situations, XR gives the opportunity and a different, innovative educational tool that can be easily adopted and used by the students of naval schools. SINTEF will be a project partner to Ready2Respond-project. SINTEF will contribute to the development of the learning analytics dashboard to be integrated in the XR application, the design and evaluation of the gamification elements, building on previous extended experience. They will also lead a pilot study that will be conducted in Trondheim in Norway. Through the project, 5 new jobs will be created. The project will result in increased competitiveness and revenues for SQLearn.
Moreover, SQLearn will increase its business competitiveness by conducting a market development strategy, preparing a strategic plan to align its business with the SDGs, preparing a Gender Equality Plan to promote diversity and inclusivity within the workplace, as well as conducting targeted training to build the capacity of the staff.
Summary of project results
The project was the response to the limitations identified in maritime education, which is focused more on imparting theoretical knowledge rather than practical skills. The Ready2Respond project developed an XR application of a game with four scenarios that simulate real-life maritime situations, aiming to train young maritime pupils on real-life situation that are related to their daily work routine and safety, also targeting aspects that they haven’t been taught during the mandatory public education.
The project consisted in developing 4 XR training modules based on real-life maritime situations targeted at young maritime school students, with the aim of engaging pupils and preparing them better, with real-life scenarios and on-the-job training and practice, to respond efficiently to challenging situations on board. Τwo pilot studies with pupils from naval schools in Greece and in Norway were organized, in order to test the training modules. The pilot study in Norway was organized by SINTEF.
The project also consisted in developing a market strategy, preparing a strategic plan to align its business with the SDGs, preparing a Gender Equality Plan to promote diversity and inclusivity within the workplace, as well as conducting targeted business training to build the capacity of the staff.
Incorporating XR simulations into educational environments makes it easier for pupils to acquire knowledge (maximizing the potential of education) and encourages them to become more aware of and involved in real-life professional processes. The results from the evaluation with two pilots in Greece and in Norway provide insights on the link between knowledge retention and gamified XR in formal maritime education. The findings highlight the benefits of using XR in maritime safety training not only for the pupils that were directly involved but also for all relevant stakeholders who may take advantage of its ability to create situated learning experiences in a safe environment. Besides being a cost-effective way of administering standardized training across a broad range of geographic locations, it may reduce the current transfer gap in safety training by making training available to anyone, anywhere, anytime.
The project also aimed to enhance SQLearn’s market presence and business competitiveness, build staff capacity, and align its operations with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Summary of bilateral results
The good collaboration between SQLearn and SINTEF have not only ensured the achievement of project milestones but have also laid the foundation for future partnerships and continued innovation in XR training solutions. The pilot studies of the XR application were done both in Greece and in Norway, thus providing the opportunity also to share know-how and compare the project results in both countries.