Videotel Expands to Meet Demands

Maritime training provider Videotel Marine International has announced a significant expansion of its computer-based training packages. Videotel has teamed-up with marine engineering training company Cobalt and is now able to offer a whole spectrum of computer-based training modules on marine engineering and associated topics. Commenting at a Videotel training seminar held onboard the HMS Wellington in London today, Chris Haughton, deputy managing director of Videotel said, "The demand for computer-based training is growing all the time because it allows shipowners and seafarers a flexible, but inexpensive approach to training. We are delighted to be teaming-up with Cobalt as we are now able to offer an additional 160 computer-based training modules. This means Videotel can now provide a complete training solution covering all functional areas of STCW." The marine training packages available through Videotel - Cobalt are grouped into 19 topics. These topics cover the whole spectrum of marine engineering including Electrical power generation, Main engine fuel systems and Lubricating oil treatment. The training packages are suitable for self-study onboard ship, but also have a role as teaching aids in a classroom environment. The modules include presentations, interactive exercises and dynamic simulations. Scored assessment is through the simulation exercises that test practical skills and competence on systems and machinery operation, as required by STCW. Rod Beams, founder of Cobalt said, "The modules are dealt with in a practical and down-to-earth manner. Although primarily aimed at marine engineers who wish to expand their knowledge and advance their careers, irrespective of the size of vessel they are serving on, they can also be used by non-engineering students, such as deck officers and other professionals requiring cross-training." Videotel has also announced the launch of its new distance learning course, Headway into Computing, a self-study IT training course for seafarers. The course is intended to provide seafarers with competencies in computing and common office applications. "Many seafarers today have received little or no formal IT training," said Haughton. "Headway into Computing is a structured training course for seafarers who want to reach an approved standard and gain a recognized qualification in IT." The course covers topics from basic theory to spreadsheets and databases. It has been especially designed for seafarers and is accredited by Oxford, Cambridge and Royal Society of Arts (OCR). Qualification is dependent on completion of the set modules in an agreed time period. Other Videotel computer-based learning packages launched today included Making the ISM code work for you - a thought-provoking guide for seafarers and managers, Wind, waves and storms - predicting and coping with bad weather, and Port State Control - understanding the system and the faults inspectors look for.