The operational model course1 27

Foreword v1 List of principal ECDIS subjects training areas 2 Inter-relationships between principal ECDIS subjects 3 Proposed course timetable 1 week 1 General 2 Preparation and conducti

Model Course 1.27

Electronic Chart Display and

(ECDIS)

First published in 2000 by the

International Maritime Organization

4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR

Printed in the UK by CPC The Printers, Portsmouth

2 4 6 8 10 9 7 5 3

ISBN 92-801-6112-1

IMO PUBLICATION Sales number: T127E

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This course in the operational use of ECDIS was developed by

ISSUS (Institute of Ship Operation, Sea Traffic and Simulation), Hamburg, Germany

supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft fUr Ortung und Navigation (DGON),

Bundesamt fUr Seeschiffahrt und Hydrographie (BSH), SevenCs GmbH

and STN ATLAS ELEKTRONIK

IMO expresses its appreciation to the developers for their expert assistance and

co-operation in the production of this course

Copyright ©IMO 2000

All rights reserved

No part of this publication may, for sales purposes, be produced, stored inaretrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, electrostatic, magnetic tape, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission in

writing from the International Maritime Organization

Foreword v

(1) List of principal ECDIS subjects (training areas)

(2) Inter-relationships between principal ECDIS subjects

(3) Proposed course timetable (1 week)

1 General

2 Preparation and conducting of simulator exercises

3 Lesson plans

4 Guidance on specific subject areas

Appendix 1: Examples of Situations and Actions for the Development of ScenariosAppendix 2: Example of "Errors of Interpretation"

Annex: Resolution A.817(19): Performance Standards for Electronic Chart Display and

Information Systems (ECDIS)

Resolution MSC.64(67) annex 5 [amending resolution A.817(19)]

Resolution MSC.86(70) annex 4 [amending resolution A.817(19)]

Attachment: Guidance on the implementation of IMO model courses

Since its inception the International Maritime Organization has recognized the importance

of human resources to the development of the maritime industry and has given the highest priority to assisting developing countries in enhancing their maritime training capabilities through the provision or improvement of maritime training facilities at national and regional levels IMO has also responded to the needs of developing countries for postgraduate training for senior personnel in administration, ports, shipping companies and maritime training institutes by establishing the World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden, in 1983 Following the earlier adoption of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch keeping for Seafarers, 1978, a number of IMO Member Governments had suggested that IMO should develop model training courses to assist in the implementation of the Convention and in achieving a more rapid transfer of information and skills regarding new developments in maritime technology IMO training advisers and consultants also subsequently determined from their visits to training establishments in developing countries that the provision of model courses could help instructors improve the quality of their existing courses and enhance their effectiveness in meeting the requirements of the Convention and implementing the associated Conference and IMO Assembly resolutions.

In addition, it was appreciated that a comprehensive set of short model courses in various fields of maritime training would supplement the instruction provided by maritime academies and allow administrators and technical specialists already employed in maritime administrations, ports and shipping companies to improve their knowledge and skills in certain specialized fields IMO has therefore developed the current series of model courses

in response to these generally identified needs and with the generous assistance of Norway.

These model courses may be used by any training institution and the Organization is prepared to assist developing countries in implementing any course when the requisite financing is available.

W A O'NEIL

Secretary-General

• The features of ECDIS

ECOIS systems offer numerous benefits compared to conventional navigation (automatic display of own ship's position, automatic updating, potential radar overlay, etc.) and are considered to be a significant step towards safer navigation They will eventually replace paper charts on board many ships.

ECOIS must be able to provide at least the same navigational functions as a conventional paper chart Unlike charts, ECOIS is a complex navigation system of a highly sophisticated level which includes not only a large number of navigational functions, but also components

of a complex computer-based information system such as hardware, software, sensor inputs, specific ECOIS data and their presentation rules, status indications and alarms, man-machine interface, etc Therefore, care must be taken when navigating with ECOIS and using its navigational functions to avoid misinformation and malfunctions Although the minimum performance standards for ECOIS have been laid down, no real standards for hardware, data presentation software (ECOIS kernel) and man-machine interface exist Consequently, it is expected that a variety of different equipment types will be installed on board ships.

Thus, time and effort must be invested in order to master ECOIS devices prior to their use.

In the interests of safe navigation, training and certification requirements are necessary.

• IMO Requirements

(a) Technical requirements

The minimum performance standards for ECOIS are laid down in IMO resolution A.817(19)

"Performance Standards for ECOIS" However, when using ECOIS in a RCDS chart mode

of operation there remains a requirement to carry an appropriate and up-to-date folio of paper charts.

(b) Competence requirements

In the STCW 95 Convention, no particular formal emphasis is placed on ECOIS systems Instead they are considered to be included under the term "charts" (Table A-II/1) Following the functional approach, the officer in charge of a navigational watch must have "thorough knowledge of and ability to use navigational charts and publications, " The methods for demonstrating competence are "using chart catalogues, charts, navigational publications, electronic navigation equipment " Criteria for evaluating competency are stated as "The charts selected are the largest scale suitable for the area of navigation and charts and publications are corrected in accordance with the latest information available" In Section B- 11/1(Assessment of abilities and skills in navigational watchkeeping), a candidate for certification must provide evidence of skills and ability to prepare for and conduct a passage, "including interpretation and applying information from charts".

(c) Performance standards

The minimum performance standards for ECOIS are laid down in IMO resolution A.817(19)

"Performance Standards for Electronic Chart Oisplay and Information Systems (ECOIS)".

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECOIS

• Goals of this course

The candidate shall be able to:

• operate the EGOIS equipment, use the navigational functions of EGOIS, select andassess all relevant information and take proper action in the case of a malfunction;

• state the potential errors of displayed data and the usual errors of interpretation; and

• explain why EGIOS should not be relied upon as the sole reliable aid to navigation.

• The purpose of this model course

The purpose of this course is to enhance safety of navigation by providing the knowledgeand skills necessary to fully utilize the features of EGOIS Furthermore, the purpose is toassist training institutions and their faculty in organizing and introducing new trainingcourses for EGIOS IMO has produced "Guidance on the implementation of model courses"which deals with this aspect in greater detail and is included as an attachment to thiscourse The model course may also be used to enhance, update or supplement existingtraining material in order to improve quality and effectiveness of the training courses offered

by the institutes

• Preparing an ECDIS course on the basis of the model course

To prepare and plan an EGOIS course, the instructor should review:

• the course framework,

• the course plan,

• the detailed syllabus, and

• the instructor manual of the model course.

Although the essential learning objectives for safe and efficient use of EGOIS are identifiedand laid down in this model course, the actual ·scope, content and length of a trainingcourse may be dependent on:

• the actual level of knowledge, skills and prior technical education of the trainees;

• the time available for the course;

• the facilities available, e.g type of simulator

• Course outline

The course outline for the EGOIS training course (Part 8) is composed of:

• a catalogue of the principal EGOIS subjects (training areas),

• an illustration of the interrelationship between the EGOIS subjects, and

• a course timetable on a 1-week basis

• Syllabus

The detailed teaching syllabus is based on a navigational job analysis in which the navigational functions for making proper use of EGOIS are identified and structured in 17 functional areas (Part G) The syllabus is laid out in learning-objective format Each objective specifies what the trainee must be able to do as the learning outcome.

• Instructor manual

The instructor manual (Part 0) essentially gives information and examples for:

• the preparation of simulator exercises,

• the drawing up of individual lesson plans, and

• guidance on specific subject areas

and describes the importance of:

• teaching (and planning) in a well structured, learning-objective-oriented way,

• theoretical knowledge (of EGOIS data) for safe practical use of EGOIS, and

• the unity of passage planning and passage monitoring.

• Prerequisites for implementation

For the course to be effective and to run smoothly, considerable attention must be paid to thorough preparation and to the availability and use of:

• properly qualified instructors;

• support staff;

• appropriate rooms and other facilities;

• suitable equipment;

• textbooks, technical papers, and other reference material.

The knowledge, skills and dedication of the instructor are the key components in the transfer of knowledge and skills to those being trained by means of IMO model course material.

• Degree of obligation of and freedom from the model course

The model course has been designed to specify clearly the technical content and levels of knowledge and skill necessary to meet the technical intent of IMO conventions and related recommendations However, it is not the intention of the model course to present instructors with a rigid "teaching package" which they are expected to "follow blindly" Instead, flexibility

is necessary Because educational systems and the cultural backgrounds of trainees in maritime subjects vary considerably from country to country, the model course material has been designed to identify the basic entry requirements and trainee target group for each course in universally applicable terms Moreover, all trainees and the instructor are in an ongoing process of individual and group evaluation The presentation of concepts and methodologies must be repeated in various ways until the instructor is satisfied that the trainee has attained each specific learning objective.

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

• For exercises in real-time navigation, full-mission navigation simulators or multi-mode marine training systems are preferable to stand-alone ECOIS sets, but the facilities of the training institutions might not include such equipment.

• Specific textbooks dealing with ECOIS at the required depth are hardly available at all for the first phase of ECOIS training.

• Necessary adjustments of the course

Adjustment of course objectives, scope, content, and time allocation may be necessary in a number of cases as follows:

• Some areas within the detailed syllabus may cause difficulties because the actual trainee entry level differs from that assumed by the course designer.

• In certain maritime areas and professions (e.g pilots), the trainees completing the course are to undertake duties which differ from the course objectives specified in the model course.

The instructor should identify all specific differences To allow training to be effective and to compensate for such differences, the instructor may:

• delete from the course (or reduce the emphasis on) items dealing with knowledge or skills already attained by the trainees; or

• insert elements of academic knowledge required to support the technical training elements at appropriate stages; or

• re-allocate the time required to achieve a specific learning objective; or

• design an appropriate pre-entry course; or

• integrate into an existing training programme the goals and objectives of this model course.

• Validation

The information contained in this document has been validated by the Sub-Committee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping for use by technical advisers, consultants and experts for the training and certification of seafarers so that the minimum standards implemented may be as uniform as possible "Validation" in the context of this document means that no grounds have been found to object to its content The Sub-Committee has not granted its approval to the document, as it considers that this work must not be regarded as an official interpretation of the Convention.

Part A: Course Framework

• Scope

This course provides training in the basic theory and use of Electronic Ghart Oisplay andInformation Systems (EGOIS) for those who will be in charge of a navigational watch onvessels equipped with EGOIS The training comprises all safety-relevant aspects and - for thisreason - aims beyond the use of operational controls Because EGOIS systems and MMls are

in an ongoing process of evolution, a functional approach, not a product-oriented approach,

is aimed at As EGO IS is part of a complex system (including sensors, track control, etc.),complex training based on a variety of functionalities and potential problems is promoted

The theoretical aspects like all major characteristics of EGOIS data such as data contents andall major characteristics of the display of EGOIS data will be covered in sufficient depth

For practical capabilities and skills, exercises are performed which will provide practice insetting up and maintaining an EGOIS display, in planning and monitoring a route, in using basicnavigational functions and equipment in a real-time navigational environment, in activatingupdates and in performing proper actions which are necessary for a safe navigational watch

• Objective

A trainee successfully completing this course will be able to use EGOIS for his navigationalwatch He will be able to operate EGOIS equipment, use the navigational functions of

EGOIS, select and assess all relevant information and take proper action

The trainee will acquire and develop a knowledge and understanding of the basic principlesgoverning the safe operation of EGOIS, including EGOIS data and their presentation, as well

as the system-related limitations and potential dangers

He will be able to generate and maintain displays, to operate all basic navigational functionsand all specific functions for route planning as well as route monitoring, to use and selectproper navigational data and to display the data in the appropriate manner He will also be able

to perform updating

He will be able to 'analyse nautical alarms during route planning and route monitoring as well

as sensor alarms He will be able to assess the impact of the performance limits of sensors onthe safe use of EGOIS and to appreciate that the back-up system is only of limitedperformance He will be able to assess errors, inaccuracies and ambiguities caused byimproper data management Thus, he will be aware of errors in displayed data, errors ofinterpretation and the risk of over-reliance on EGOIS and be able to take proper action

In addition, he will have knowledge of the principal types of electronic chart and the essentiallegal aspects of the use of EGOIS

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

• Entry standards

The course is designated both for candidates for certification as officers in charge of anavigational watch and for experienced nautical officers and other persons with responsibleduties in navigation work, such as pilots

Those wishing to enterthis course should have experience in performing chart work and should

be able to practise all usual tasks concerning standard navigational procedures and equipment.They should know about the functions and limitations of other navigational equipment

They should preferably be familiar with standard computer MMls, including elements such aswindows, menus, trackball, etc

• Course certificate, diploma or document

Every master, chief mate and officer in charge of a navigational watch on a ship fitted withECOIS should have completed a course in the use of ECOIS

On successful completion of the course and assessments, a document may be issuedcertifying that the holder has successfully completed a course of training which meets orexceeds the level of knowledge and competence specified in Table A-1I/1 of STCW Code Acertificate may be issued only by centres approved by the Administration However, theissuance of a certificate to an officer in charge of a navigational watch, in accordance withregulation 11/1of the STCW Convention, testifies that the candidate has reached the requiredlevel of competence

• Course intake limitations

The course intake will be limited by the availability of equipment such as ECOIS sets, mode marine training systems orfull-mission navigation simulators Experience shows that theefficacy of practical training is optimized when the intake does not exceed three trainees per(standalone) ECOIS set and four trainees on a simulator bridge during exercises in their use.(The duration of complex exercises is up to 5 hours.)

• Teaching facilities and equipment

For the theoretical part of the syllabus, a classroom equipped with an overhead projector and

a blackboard will be required

For the demonstration of ECDIS features, an ECDIS set with real or simulated sensor input forposition, course, speed and depth is required Own ship must be able to move along the chart

A suitable multi-mode marine training system containing the essential ECDIS features may also

be used

For most practical exercises of the trainees, the equipment should allow a navigational watch

as close to reality as possible in real time A full-mission navigation simulator bridge including

an ECDIS set would be desirable

• Teaching aids (A)

A1 Instructor Manual (Part D of this Course)

A2 Video-cassette player

A3 Video cassettes about the use of ECDIS (if available), e.g made by independent

producers or ECDIS manufacturers

A4 ECDIS data for an appropriate area

A5 Simulator for ENC updates (if available)

To be extended whenever suitable teaching aids are available.

• IMO references (R)

R1 Assembly resolution A.817(19), as amended by resolutions MSC.64(67) annex 5 and

MSC.86(70) annex 4, Performance standards for ECDIS

R2 STCW Convention 1995

R3 SOLAS chapter V (under revision)

R4 Resolution A.823(19), Performance standards for ARPA

R5 Resolution A.477(XII), as amended by resolution MSC.64(67) annex 4, Performance

standards for radar equipment

R6 Resolution A.824(19), Performance standards for devices to indicate speed and

distance

R7 Resolution A.424(XI), Performance standards for gyro-compasses

R8 Resolution A.819(19), Performance standards for GPS receivers

R9 Resolution A.224(VII), as amended by resolution MSC.74(69) annex 4, Performance

standards for echo-sounding equipment

R10 Resolution MSC.64(67) annex 3, Performance standards for heading control systemsR11 Resolution MSC.74(69) annex 2, Performance standards for track control systemsR12 Resolution MSC.86(70) annex 3, Performance standards for integrated navigation

systems

R13 SN/Circ.207, Differences between RCDS and ECDIS

R14 Resolution MSC.64(67), Recommendations on new and amended performance

standards

R15 Resolution MSC.86(70), Adoption of new and amended performance standards for

navigational equipment

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

• Textbooks and other references (T)

T1 IHO Special Publication No.5-52 Specifications for Chart Content and Display Aspects

of ECDIS (up-to-date edition)

T2 IHO Special Publication No.5-57 IHO Transfer Standard for Digital Hydrographic Data

(up-to-date edition)

T3 Appendix 3 of T1, Glossary of ECDIS-related terms

T4 IEC Publication 61174, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and

systems - Electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) - Operational andperformance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

To be extended whenever suitable textbooks are available

• Bibliography (B)

B1 N Bowditch, The American Practical Navigator (Defence Mapping Agency Publication

No.9), 1995 edition (chapter 14; pages 219 to 224)

To be extended whenever a more extensive and in-depth bibliography is available.

Part B: Course Outline and Timetable

The course outline for the EGDIS training course is specified by

a list of the principal EGDIS subjects (training areas) including the area objectives andsyllabus outline;

a flowchart to illustrate the inter-relationships between the principal EGDIS subjects;

a course timetable (on a 1-week basis)

Part B (1)

List of principal ECDIS subjects (training areas)

Notes:

The area objectives for the principal EGDIS subjects (written in italics) are understood

to be prefixed by the words "The expected learning outcome is that the trainee is able to

"

Teaching staff should note that timetables are suggestions only as regards sequenceand length of time allocated to each objective These factors may be adapted bylecturers to suit individual groups of trainees depending on their experience, ability,equipment and staff availability for training

L =Lecture; D =Demonstration; E=Exercise

1 Legal aspects and Describe the essential legal aspects and 0.5 (0.5 - -)requirements responsibilities in the use of ECOIS

Carriage requirements Equivalency

Performance standards Data procurement Training requirements

2 Principal types of State the main characteristics of principal types 0.75 (0.75 - -)electronic chart of electronic chart (vector and raster)

3 ECDIS data Explain all safety-relevant as well as all other 2.5 (1.5 0.5 0.5)

major characteristics of ECOIS data such as data contents, handle ECOIS data on board and assess all errors, inaccuracies, and ambiguities caused by improper data management

Terms and definitions Data structure and database ENC creation

Data quality Reference systems Data distribution Loading and storing

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECOIS

4 Presentation of Explain the main characteristics of the display 2.0 (0.75 1.0 0.25)

ECOIS data of ECDIS data and select proper information for

the navigational tasks

Presentation library Modifying the chart presentation Scope and selection of chart data (display categories)

Automatic presentation rules Modes of presentation

5 Sensors Describe the performance limits of sensors and 1.5 (1.0 0.25 0.25)

assess their impact on the safe use of ECDIS

Performance limits Fall-back sensor systems Data reference system Selection of appropriate and unambiguous sensor data

Plausibility of sensor input

6 Basic navigational Operate all basic navigational functions and 2.75 (0.25 0.5 2.0)

functions and settings

settings Automatic functions

Manual functions Own chart entries Presentation of navigational marks Additional information

Vector types

7 Specific functions Operate all specific functions and obtain all 7.5 (0.5 1.0 6.0)

for route planning relevant information for route planning from

ECDIS

Sea area selection Route planning information Construction of a route Adjustment of a planned route Curved track planning

Planning notes Safety values Check for navigational safety Ultimate route

8 Specific functions Operate all specific functions for route 9.5 (0.5 1.0 8.0)

for route monitoring monitoring and obtain all relevant information

for navigation and for the ship's safety

Monitored area Required route Vector-time Check measurements Look-ahead function Alarms

Current and wind

imporlanceofupdanng

Production and distribution of updates Manual, semi-automatic and automatic updating

Performing updates on board Updating and safe navigation

Training area Area objective and syllabus outline Lessons L D E

10 Display and function Explain the display and possible dangers and 1.75 (0.5 0.75 0.5)

of other navigational demonstrate the function of other navigational

information information

Radar superimposition Automatic track-keeping Use of transponders

11 Errors in displayed Explain the potential errors of displayed data 1.5 (0.5 0.5 0.5)

- data and take proper action

Potential errors in the ECDIS display Potential errors in the display of own ship's position

Correctness of displayed data

12 Errors of Explain the potential errors of interpretation and 1.5 (0.5 0.5 0.5) interpretation take proper action to avoid these errors

13 Status indications, Explain the status indications, indicators and 1.5 (0.5 0.5 0.5) indicators and alarms for different kinds of situation and take

Definition and meaning of indicators and alarms

Nautical indications/alarms and sensor alarms Data and chart alarms

14 Documentation Understand the meaning of voyage recording 0.5 (0.25 0.25 -)

and operate the corresponding functions

Automatic voyage recording Reconstruction of past track

15 Integrity monitoring Analyse and assess the functioning of EGOIS 1.25 (0.25 0.5 0.5)

On-line test Manual and visual tests Verification of proper functioning

16 Back-up Navigate as safely as possible using the back- 1.5 (0.25 0.25 1.0)

up system in the case of an EGOIS failure

Takeover by the back-up system Reduced functional capabilities Periodical function test

17 Risk of over- Assess the limits of EGOIS as a tool which 1.5 (0.5 0.5 0.5) reliance on ECDIS does not release the navigator from proper

watchkeeping

Since ECDIS subjects 8, 11, 12, 13, 17 are dealt with simultaneously, it may be impracticable

to allocate separate simulator time for these subjects Instead, a reasonable total time may beallocated to ECDIS subject 8 (Specific functions for route monitoring)

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

Part B (3): Proposed Course Timetable "Use of ECDIS"

Session

Morning 6 (Familiariz- 1 Legal aspects 9 Updating 13 Status 16 Back-up

functionsl settings

6 Familiarization 7 Specific functions 5 Sensors 14 Document- 17 Risk of

2 Principal types 7 Route planning 10 Display of 7 Route 7 Route

equipment waters and waters)

approaches)

Afternoon 3 ECDIS data 8 Specific functions 11 Errors of 8 Route 8 Route

waters and waters) approaches)

4 Presentation of 8 Route monitoring 12 Errors of 15 Integrity

ECDIS data (offshore waters) interpretation monitoring

Notes

L =Lecture, D =Demonstration, E =Exercise

Total teaching contact time: 40 hours Short breaks can be taken between the

periods as necessary or convenient

ECDIS subjects 8, 11, 12,13, 17 are dealt with simultaneously It may be impractical

to allocate separate exercise time to them Instead, a reasonable total time may beallocated to subject 8

Additional periods of discussion/workshop can be arranged as necessary or

convenient

The sequence of lessons is essentially based on didactic reasons and on the relations between the subjects stated in the flowchart (Part 8(2».

inter-OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

Part C: Detailed Teaching Syllabus

The detailed teaching syllabus indicates the contents of the course and appropriate referencesand teaching aids

• Learning objectives

The detailed teaching syllabus has been written in learning-objective format in which theobjective describes what the trainee must do to demonstrate that knowledge has beenacquired All objectives are understood to be prefixed by the words "The expected learningoutcome is that the trainee is able to "

• References and teaching aids

In order to assist the instructor, references are shown against the learning objective to indicateIMO references and publications, bibliographies, textbooks and other references, as well asadditional teaching aids which the instructor may wish to use when preparing course material.The material is listed in the course framework The following notations and abbreviations areused:

The following are examples of the use of references:

"R1 - para 1.2" refers to paragraph 1.2 of the annex of Assembly resolution A.817(19) asamended;

"81 - p 220" refers to page 220 of the bibliography item The American Practical Navigator,

"A 1 - Ch 4.1" refers to chapter 4.1 of the instructor manual (Part 0of this course)

• User manual

The user manual (Part D) has been used to structure and comment on the detailed teachingsyllabus and will provide valuable information to instructors

f Detailed Teaching Syllabus

I

I : o~~::~: =~e ~d.~~~.~.~~.~~~~~.~~.~~~.~~~.':~~eexpected learningoutcomeis that

Blblio- Teaching

1 Legal aspects and requirements

Anta objective: describe the essential legal aspects and

1.1 explain (C2) the SOLAS (chapter V) carriage requirements R3

concerning the carriage of charts

1.2 explain (C2) the equivalency of ECDIS and paper charts to R1 - para.

make it clear that only ECDIS using the official ENC entitles 1.2,

1.3 outline (C1) the IMO performance standards for ECDIS R1

1.4 explain and accept (C2, A5) his responsibilities with regard to

"data procurement"

1.5 explain and accept the training requirements concerning the

operation of navigation equipment

2 Principal types of electronic chart

Anta obJective: state the main characteristics of principal B1

state (C2):

- the differences between different ECDIS systems

- the differences between ECDIS and ECS

- the differences between vector and raster charts

3 ECDIS data

Area obJective: explain all safety-relevant as well as all other T1, T2

A1-major characteristics of ECDIS data such as data contents, Ch.4.3handle ECDIS data on board andassess all errors,

Inaccuracies and ambiguities caused by improper data

management

3.1 describe (C1) the terms and definitions used in the context of R1 - para 2

ECDIS, such as S-52, S-57, "object-oriented" data, "vector

data", presentation-independence of data, ENC, and SENC

3.2 explain (C2):

- the data structure and database of ECDIS, including

objects and their attributes (object catalogue)

- that the display is a portrait of ECDIS data, Le only the

information contained and structured in the

objects/attributes is available for display

- how manual updates are entered in the database

3.3 outline (C1) the steps and responsibilities during ENC

creation

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

Learning objectives

3.4 explain (C2) why chart data quality is dependent on factors

such

as (survey-) accuracy, updatedness, coverage and

completeness of chart data

assess (C6) that the data quality is doubtful due to the

change of the factors named above

3.5 explain (C2) the different reference systems used for

81-positioning (including time, direction, speed) and associated p.219

problems in ECDIS as well as the effects of horizontal and

vertical datum

assess (C6) all errors, inaccuracies and ambiguities caused

by improper data management

3.6 outline (C1) the organization of chart data distribution

3.7 demonstrate (C3) the loading and storing of ECDIS data by

calling up the directory of available chart data and by

importing the chart data for the waters in question

4 Presentation of ECDIS data

Area obJective: explain the main characteristics of the display R1 - para 3 T1

A1-of ECDIS data and select proper Information for the &Ap.2 Ch 4.4navigational tasks

4.1 explain (C2) the major rules for presentation contained in the

presentation library for ECDIS

apply (C3) the major rules for presentation to the display

presentation

4.2 explain (C2) the factors characterizing and modifying the R1 - para 8.1

chart presentation, such as projection, colours and symbols to 8.4 & Ap 3

as well as data quality such as accuracy, resolution and

completeness

4.3 describe (C1) the scope and selection of chart data to be

displayed

select (C3) the relevant information contents by the display R1 - para 3.2

categories "Display base", "Standard display" and "All other &Ap.2

Learning objectives

R1 - para 7.1 4.5 identify (C1) the different modes of presentation such as: to 7.3

- true or relative motion

- north-up or course-up stabilization

select and apply (C3) the suitable mode of presentation for R1 - para 7.4

the actual situation

5 Sensors

Area objective: describe the performance limits of sensors R1 - para 12

5.1 explain (C2) the performance limits concerning availability, R4, R5, R6,

accuracy and integrity of all navigational sensors connected R7,RB,R9

to ECDIS (Le devices to determine position, course, speed

and depth as well as radar)

assess (C6) the impairment of ECDIS performance in the

case of a deterioration in sensor performance

5.2 select and use (C3) an appropriate fall-back sensor system

by switching to it or alternatively notice automatic switch-over

and use of the fall-back system

5.3 explain (C2) the data reference system of each connected

sensor (e.g geodetic system, position of antenna and

transducer)

5.4 explain (C2) the need for selection of appropriate and

unambiguous sensor data displayed in ECDIS

5.5 assess (C6) the plausibility of sensor input values to ECDIS

6 Basic navigational functions and settings

Area objectives: operate all basic navigational functions and R1-Ap.3

6.1 identify (C1) all automatic functions required for monitoring R1 -Ap. 3

ship's safety such as the display of position, heading/gyro

course, speed, safety values and time

6.2 demonstrate (C3):

- how manual functions and elements such as cursor, R1 - para.

electronic bearing line and range rings are used 10.5.11 &

Ap.3

- how a position which was not automatically determined is

marked on the ECDIS display

- how position-fixing methods are applied within ECDIS

(line of position)

- how the range scale and/or the scale is changed, how R1 - para.

own ship's safety values such as "safety contour" or 3.6 &3.7

"safety depth" are set

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECOIS

6.4 demonstrate (C3) how the presentation of navigation marks

is changed

6.5 demonstrate (C3):

- how additional information on particular ENC objects

such as lights are switched on for display

- how depth values and spot soundings are picked

6.6 demonstrate (C3) the two vector types indicating the ship's

motion over ground and through the water and their benefits

and drawbacks

7 Specific functions for route planning

Area objective: operate all specific functions and obtain all R1 - para

A1-relevant Information for route planning from ECDIS 10.4 Ch.4.7 7.1 demonstrate (C3) how the sea areas and the required waters

for planning the whole passage are selected for display

7.2 demonstrate (C3):

- how relevant route planning information such as sailing

directions, tidal or meteorological information is gained

from ECOIS and other sources

- how information required for specific situations such as

anchoring is obtained

7.3 demonstrate (C3) how the construction of a route is R1 - para.

performed by the input of waypoints, both directly on the 10.4.1

ECOIS display and alphanumerically

7.4 demonstrate (C3) how the adjustment of a planned route by R1 - para.

7.5 demonstrate (C3):

- how curved track planning is performed by the input of R1 - para.

turning radii, wheel-over points/lines and safe speeds 10.4.1

- how courses and distances of the track are obtained

from the chart by different methods such as cursor

position, selection of legs or recalling the waypoint list

7.6 demonstrate (C3):

- how planning notes such as courses, rudder angles and

speeds to be maintained in a specific area are applied

- how expected passage times are determined

- how current is to be considered when plotting a track in

the ECOIS display

7.7 assess (C6) which safety values are to be selected in R1 - para.

accordance with the ship's dimensions and the manoeuvring 10.4.4

parameters to be applied

7.8 demonstrate (C3) how a planned route is checked for R1 - para.

10.4.5 &Ap 4

Learning objectives IMO Bibllo- Teaching

7.9 assess (C6):

- if a track is reliably safe by considering all predictable

hazards along it

- which ultimate route is to be taken

- which points/areas are critical

8 Specific functions for route monitoring

Area obJective: operate all specific functions for route R1 - para

A1-monitoring and obtain all relevant Information for navigation 10.5 Ch.4.8

and for the ship's safety

8.1 demonstrate (C3) how a monitored area is selected left and R1 - para.

8.2 demonstrate (C3) how the required route is selected, called R1 - para.

10.5.10

8.3 demonstrate (C3) how a predicted position can be generated

by setting a "vector-time" and explain (C2) the relevance of

"vector-time" information

8.4 demonstrate (C3) how check measurements of the ship's R1 - para.

position, independent of the ECDIS equipment including its 10.5.11

sensors, are performed and plotted in ECDIS

8.5 explain (C2) the relevance of the "look-ahead function" and

demonstrate (C3) how the "look-ahead function" is

performed

8.6 explain (C2) how the alarms concerning route monitoring are R1 - para.

- by crossing a safety contour or prohibited area 10.5.9 & Ap 4

- by violation of the set limits for deviation from on arrival &5

at a critical point of the route

demonstrate (C3) how alarms are set with regard to their

presentation and their alarm levels

assess (C6) the significance of the different alarms

concerning route monitoring

8.7 demonstrate (C3) how values for current and wind which are

obtained from external sources are applied to ECDIS

- how the distribution of updates by regional data centres

is organized and executed

9.2 explain (C2) the essentials of manual, semi-automatic and

automatic updating

19

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECOIS

9.3 perform (C3) updates on board by:

- performing (C3) the manual and semi-automatic

updating procedures

- indicating (C3) how items which are added to, removed

from or altered on the original ENC are marked and

indicated

- displaying updates in order to: R 1 - para 4.8

• review their contents and

• ascertain that they have been included in the SENC

9.4 realize (A 1) that only continuously updated data allow safe

navigation

10 Display and function of other navigational information

Area objective: explain the display and possible dangers and

demonstrate the function of navigational information R1 - para 6

A1-Ch.4.10 10.1 demonstrate (C3) how radar superimposition is employed R3,R4

explain (C 2) and assess (C6) possible offsets of radar

echoes of fixed charted objects from their charted position

10.2 indicate (C3) how automatic track-keeping is employed R10, R11

describe (C1) the potential dangers of the automatic

track-keeping mode

10.3 demonstrate (C3) the use of information from transponders

11 Errors of displayed data

AI1NI objectives: explain the potential errors of displayed data

11.1 explain (C2) the potential errors of the ECOIS display due to: R1-para.11

- inaccurate hydrographic data

- poor resolution

- the shifting of buoys

11.2 explain (C2) that potential errors introduced by: R1 - para 12

- inaccurate input from the electronic position-fixing

system

- inaccurate input of radar data

- different geodetic co-ordinate systems

- reference position of sensors on board

may result in errors in the display of own ship's position

11.3 check (C6) the correctness of displayed data:

- by comparing ECOIS and radar information

- by checking the ship's position by means of a second

independent position-fixing system

12 Errors of interpretation

Area obJective: explain the potential errors of interpretation

A1-and take proper action to avoid these errors Ch.4.12

Learning objectives

Explain (C2) the errors of interpretation due to: R1 - para 5

- different modes of vector stabilization

- overscale of the display

- neglecting the 95% probability of the accuracy standard R8

of the fixing sensor

- automatic track-keeping features such as the continuous

display of own ship's position on the preplanned track

- difference between true north and gyro north (radar)

avoid (C6) errors of interpretation by verifying the selection

of:

- a common reference system

- the appropriate scale

- the sensors best suited for the given situation

- the safety values

- display categories

- usage, etc.

13 Status Indications, Indicators and alarms

Area objectives: explain the status indications, indicators and

A1-alarms for different kinds of situation and take proper action Ch.4.13

13.1 outline (C1) the definition and meaning of status indications,

R1 - Ap 5&

indicators and alarms related to ECDIS, including the areas Ap.4

for which ECDIS should provide an alarm or indication

- the nautical indications during route planning 10.4.5 &

- the nautical alarms during route monitoring 10.5.4

- the sensor alarms and indications, and apply (C3)

appropriate measures in the case of their occurrence

13.3 explain (C2) and analyse (C4) the data and chart alarms, R1 - para 5

resulting from a non-WGS 84 geodetic datum or overscale

- how the contents of automatic voyage recording are

called up, in particular:

• how a past track is constructed and

• how the database in use is verified

• how possible selections of, for example, recording

media or recording intervals are carried out

- the proceeding of the on-line test during booting T4

- the on-line system check during normal operation

21

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

- manual tests of the major functions of hardware, MMI

and sensor data

- visual tests of chart data

15.3 recognize (C3) all status indications

verify (C3):

- the proper functioning of the ECDIS display and the

position-fixing system by comparing ECDIS and radar

objects or back-up positioning system

- that all received updates are contained in the ECDIS

display

assess (C6) that the navigation process is safe

16 Back-up

Area obJective: navigate as safely as possible using the back- R1 - para 14

16.1 perform (C3):

- a safe takeover by the back-up system R1 -Ap 6

- a safe transfer of all relevant passage planning data from

the ECDIS to the back-up system

- a transfer of all relevant updates immediately to the

back-up system

16.2 explain (C2) the reduced functional capabilities which are

available with the back-up system

appreciate (C6) that the back-up system is only of limited

performance and that the back-up system should be

replaced by a properly functioning ECDJS as soon as

possible

16.3 explain (C2) that periodical function tests and practice of the

takeover procedure are necessary in order to verify proper

functioning of the back-up device in an emergency case

17 Risk of over-reliance on ECCIS

Area obJective: assess the limits of ECDISas a tool which does not release the navigator from proper watchkeeplng Ch.4.17 recognize (A 1):

A1 that a potential risk of improper functioning of the system

and of data inaccuracy is inherent in the system

- that the displayed hydrographic data are not more

reliable than the survey data on which they are based

- that the displayed sensor data are not more reliable

than the respective sensor systems they originate from

- that ECDIS is only a tool that supports the mariner in the

performing of the navigational tasks

- that errors/inaccuracies in one subsystem may influence

the performance of other subsystems and potentially

render the ECDIS useless

Learning objectives IMO Blbllo- Teaching

perform (C3) a navigational watch which is not based on only

one system

assess (C6)

- the integrity of the system and all data at all times

- that he should also use other available aids to navigation

and determine which ones are appropriate

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

Part D: Instructor Manual

1 General

This model course, in particular the selection of principal ECOIS subjects, the relative importance of these subjects, the interrelations between these subjects, the learning objectives, the necessary teaching tools, the time allocated to achieving the learning objectives, the selection of methodology and the organization, reflects the views of the course designer The model course should give sufficient guidance to develop and initially start an ECOIS training course.

On the basis of the general objectives of ECOIS training which require that the mariner is able:

• to understand the basic principles of ECOIS data and their presentation;

• to operate the ECOIS equipment; and

• to be aware of all potential errors,

the instructor should prepare, plan and present his own course He should work out his own methods and ideas, refine and develop what is successful and discard those ideas which

do not work Guidance is provided in the booklet entitled "Guidance on the implementation

of IMO model courses" which includes a checklist for preparation of courses.

Instructors should also encourage course participants to review equipment manufacturers' ECOIS training media during shipboard familiarization indoctrination and before accepting navigational watch duties.

1.1 Learning objectives

The detailed teaching syllabus has been written in learning-objective format in which the objective describes what the trainee must do to demonstrate that knowledge has been transferred This format is an appropriate teaching and assessment tool to express:

• the depth of understanding of a subject and the degree of familiarization with a subject on the part of the trainee and

• what capabilities the trainee should really have and demonstrate (as opposed to what the instructor told him and what he should have listened to).

Every instructor would be well advised to teach "learning in an objective-related way" instead of "in a material-related way" In this context, all objectives are understood to be prefixed by the words "The expected learning outcome is that the trainee is able to

"

To indicate the degree of learning outcome of this course, the learning objectives for the

"Detailed Teaching Syllabus" (Section 3) are classified in three dimensions: "C" (cognitive),

"A" (affective), and "P" (psycho-motoric) Within a dimension, they are hierarchized by increasing complexity ("C1" to "C6", "A1" to "AS", and "P1" to "PS") where the complexity (depth, familiarization) is expressed (following essentially B Bloom and others) by a typical verb as follows:

Cognitive dimension oflearning objectives

C1 Knowledge describe, outline

C4 Analysis analyse

C5 Synthesis synthesize, construct, plan

Affective dimension oflearning objectives

A1 Receiving; noticing recognize

A4 Organization organize

A5 Value characterization accept, appreciate

Psycho-motoric dimension oflearning objectives

P2 Manipulation manipulate

P4 Co-ordination co-ordinate (operations, menus)

P5 Naturalization automate, interiorate

1.2 Theory, demonstration and exercises

Theory lectures

As the safe use of ECOIS requires knowledge and understanding of the basic principles governing ECOIS data and their presentation rules as well as potential errors in displayed data and ECOIS-related limitations and potential dangers, a number of classroom lectures covering the theoretical explanations must be provided.

As far as possible, such lessons should be presented within a familiar context and make use of practical examples They should be well illustrated with diagrams, photographs and charts where appropriate and be related to matter learned or reinforced during simulator exercises The use of an overhead projector and the distribution of copies of the transparencies as trainee handouts contribute to the learning process.

Demonstration

ECOIS equipment should be used by the instructor to illustrate the theoretical features and

to prepare the simulator exercises of the trainees.

Simulator exercises

For safe operation of ECOIS equipment and ECOIS-related information (use of the navigational functions of ECOIS, selection and assessment of all relevant information, becoming familiar with ECOIS man-machine interfacing), practical exercises and training sessions on the ECOIS equipment or simulators constitute the main content of the course.

Exercises should be carried out on individual ECOIS equipment or full-mission navigation simulators including ECOIS to enable trainees to acquire the necessary practical skills For real time navigation exercises, navigation simulators are recommended to cover the complex navigation situation The exercises should provide training in the use of the various scales, navigational modes, and display modes which are available, such that the trainees will be able to adapt the use of the equipment to the particular situation concerned.

1.3 Evaluation

The outcome of the ECOIS training course should be evaluated Because the course includes theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills and proper decision-making, the method of evaluation and the criteria for evaluating competency (correctness of method; correctness of outcome; duration; compliance; effectiveness; etc.) should take all of these

25

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

aspects into account The learning objectives used in the detailed syllabus will provide a sound basis for the construction of suitable tests for evaluating trainee progress The effectiveness of any evaluation depends upon the accuracy of the description of what is to

be measured.

Further guidance on method of evaluation, validity, reliability, subjective testing, objective testing, distracters and guessing (if using multiple-choice tests) and scoring is provided in the booklet entitled "Guidance on the implementation of IMO model courses" and in the Model Course 1.07 "Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting and Use of ARPA".

2 Preparation and conducting of simulator exercises

The following ideas are recommended for the production of exercises in the use of ECOIS.

2.1 Fictitious versus real sea area

Exercises should produce the greatest impression of realism To achieve this, the scenarios should be located in fictitious sea areas, not in real ones, for the following reasons:

• Situations, functions and actions for different learning objectives which occur in different sea areas can be integrated into one exercise and experienced in real time.

• The exchange of scenarios and exercises between maritime educational institutions

is possible.

• ECOIS data are not yet available for many parts of the world.

2.2 Passage planning and passage monitoring

Unlike radar or ARPA which are used (only) to observe the current traffic and navigational situation, ECOIS is used for both passage planning and passage monitoring Consequently, the trainees must be enabled to use the specific functions for passage planning and the specific functions for monitoring the progress of these passages It is recommended that the course plan should contain two or three extended exercises which include the planning and the real-time execution/monitoring of passages These exercises may well require two hours for the planning and additionally three hours for the execution/monitoring of the voyage (see Timetable in Part 8(3)).

2.3 ECDIS workstation versus "full-mission simulator"

The choice of exercises and scenarios is governed by the simulator facilities available If one or more ECOIS workstations and a full-mission simulator are available, the workstations may primarily be used

• for basic exercises in the use of ECOIS facilities and

• for passage planning exercises,

whereas "full-mission simulators" may primarily be used for exercises related to passage monitoring functions in real time, as realistic as possible in connection with the total workload of a navigational watch.

2.4 Specific types of sea area

If the simulator facilities are available, it is advisable to make use of three types of sea area (characterizing increasing complexity and difficulty) for which typical characteristics and attributes, navigational situations and requirements, navigational functions and operators' actions can be identified:

• Offshore waters

• Coastal waters and approaches

• Restricted and confined waters (pilotage waters)

The requirements for a scenario can be derived from the navigational requirementsconcerning a type of sea area

2.5 Compilation of typical situations and actions

In order to design exercises, it is advisable to compile characteristic sets of data containinglearning objectives, situations and actions which the trainee has to perform Examples of anextended catalogue are given in Appendix 1 of the Instructor Manual Further examplesshould be taken from navigational practice and teaching experience Also, the IEC

Publication 1174 ECDIS: Operational and Performance Requirements (Methods of Testing and Required Test Results) may be of some assistance. Finally, for each of these seaareas the appropriate components for the exercise may be selected and integrated to form

an exercise

2.6 Monitoring of exercises

During exercises away from the ECDIS set, the instructor will be responsible for producing

"situations" or "disturbances" to which the trainees have to react, e.g

• displace own ship's position by manipulating the position-fixing sensor input;

• create sensor failures, indications and alarms;

• create messages (NAVTEX) to the navigator;

• supply ECDIS updates;

• sail and control (a few) target ships (if radar overlay) etc

At the ECDIS set, the instructor (or a second instructor, if available) is responsible for

• guiding the trainees in the use of the equipment (at first),

• monitoring the trainees at work without interrupting them in the use of the equipment.His task will vary according to the trainees' abilities and competence

The actions of the trainees should be closely monitored The exercise should be recordedand a summary for the purposes of debriefing should be made

2.7 Debriefing

Debriefing of the exercises is essential The time spent on debriefing should occupybetween 10% and 15% of the total time used for simulator exercises The instructor shouldrefer to the summary made during the exercise to raise important points and to direct thediscussion among trainees The following facilities may be used in debriefing:

• playback to record the whole exercise (any sequence should be available fordiscussion);

• plotters to record the track of own ship (and potentially other ships);

• logging equipment to provide a printout of "own ship's" manoeuvres

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

3 Lesson plans

The instructor should draw up lesson plans for the individual lessons based on the courseobjectives and the detailed syllabus, taking account of any necessary revision of coursecontent to suit the trainee intake An example of a lesson plan (120 minutes) is shown inthis instructor manual The lesson plans may simply consist of the detailed syllabus withkeywords or other reminders added to assist the instructor in making his presentation of thematerial The lesson plans may contain specific references to the teaching method, IMOreferences, bibliography, textbooks and other teaching material proposed for use in thecourse, instructor guidelines and time (in minutes) allocated to a specific learning objective

4 Guidance on specific subject areas

This paragraph contains guidance to the instructor, particularly on the coverage of theEGOIS subject areas listed in the course outline and the detailed teaching syllabus Thescope and depth of the subject areas are reflected; essentials are pointed out

Many of the subjects contain objectives which are relevant to different exercises at differentlevels Their inclusion in any exercise can reinforce the learning process The instructorshould develop a methodology based on his own experience, but at the same time heshould remember that the IMO references indicate the required training under eachheading

The main objective of this section is to ensure that the trainee understands hisresponsibilities in the use of EGOIS The instructor should particularly point out the trainee'sresponsibilities

• for using EGOIS systems as an equivalent alternative to paper charts only if theEGOIS systems are based on official ENGs and if they fulfil the performance

standards for EGOIS and

• for proper data procurement and updating, Le that actual data are always at hand

The trainee should have knowledge of the carriage requirements for "charts" which may beeither paper charts or an EGOIS (including a back-up system if the chart is an EGOIS)according to SOLAS chapter V

Moreover, the instructor should provide an appreciation of the minimum performancestandards of EGOIS which are laid down in the "IMO Performance Standards for EGOIS".The trainee should have knowledge of the minimum standards for functions, data and datapresentation as well as the reliability of EGO IS He should not expect a better performancethan that specified in these, but not an inferior performance either The instructor shouldprovide the original text as a reference

The subject has two aims Firstly, it should make the trainee aware of common principles,similarities and differences regarding the facilities and MMls of different EGOIS systems Ifthe trainee has got some knowledge of EGOIS systems alternative to those with which hebecame familiar during the training course, he might find it easier to transfer his knowledgefrom one system to another

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

Secondly, although this course is dedicated to ECOIS, the trainee should also acquire anoverview of other principal non-ECOIS types of electronic chart called Electronic ChartSystems ("ECS") He should know the limitations and drawbacks of non-ECOIS systemsand of raster chart display systems (RCOS) compared with charts based on vector andobject-oriented data

The instructor should use visual aids to demonstrate different systems

The instructor should provide an appreciation that ECOIS data are the core element ofECOIS and that only official ENC data are to be used The trainee should also acquireknowledge of the relationship between ECOIS data and the information presented on thedisplay He should realize that the display is a portrait of ECOIS data and should be madeaware that only information stored as objects with corresponding attributes in the database

is available for display

The instructor should demonstrate how to handle ECOIS data on board, Le how to loadand store data (e.g by calling up directories of available chart data and by importing chartdata) and how to enter updates manually in the database The trainees should reinforcetheir capabilities by exercises of their own

The instructor should create a sensitivity for the need for reliable data and he shouldconvey knowledge of the factors which have an impact on reliability (completeness,accuracy, updatedness, reference systems, etc.) such that the trainee is able to assessdisplayed ECOIS data

Furthermore, the instructor should report about the methods and responsibilities concerningECOIS data creation and distribution

The main objective of this section is to enable the trainee to understand, to modify and tooptimize the ECOIS display The automatic display of the ship's position and track is onlysafe and valuable in the appropriate chart display In most situations, the display of all (!)available ENC information would cause information overflow and "clutter" Instead, it would

be ideal to restrict the display of data to all relevant (!) information only In any case, theselection of information for display is essential ECOIS provides automatic presentationrules to assist the mariner in this selection process It is important for the trainee to knowwhich impact the automatic presentation rules have on the presentation The instructorshould explain the principles

Symbols

Concerning colours and symbols which differ considerably from those in paper charts, theinstructor should ensure that the trainees are familiar with their meaning and that they areable to pick up more detailed information related to the objects which are indicated by thesymbols

Contents

The trainee should know that the contents displayed depend on the display category, therange scale, the day/night situation etc

(a) If he is familiar with the three different ECDIS display categories "Display Base",

"Standard Display" and "All Other Information" (R1 - Ap 2), he can select thecategory he needs and he will understand that certain information is not displayed in

a certain mode although, of course, the information exists in the database

(b) A change of range scale may have a similar effect on the display: if the range scale

is decreased, some information (buoys, depth contours, etc.) will automaticallydisappear

(c) A switch-over from day to night presentation or vice versa makes navigation lightsappear or disappear respectively

Ergonomics

Concerning ergonomics, the instructor should use different light conditions in the exercisessuch that the trainees become familiar with the changed colours displayed in the day andnight presentations

All in all, the instructor should ensure that the trainees get experience in modifying the chartpresentation He should ensure that the trainees observe the automatic presentation ruleswithin the exercises, e.g by enforcing switch-over between different display categories,range scales and light conditions

One of the major advantages of ECDIS is the automatic and real-time presentation of ownship's position, course and speed in the chart The officer will tend to "believe what hesees" It is extremely important that the trainee has profound knowledge of the performanceand limits of all sensors involved in ECDIS (position, depth, course, and speed; even radar).Safe navigation is only possible if the navigator is always conscious of the quality of sensorinput and conscious of the accuracy and reliability of "what he sees" Otherwise, if a sensorinput is erroneous, the safety of the ship may easily be in danger

The following particular arguments have to be thoroughly explained by the instructor andshould be included in the exercises:

• The positional accuracy can be expressed in probability terms only "The accuracy is

100 m (95%)" means that in 5% of all cases the accuracy is worse than 100 m

• The quality wavers when the primary sensor fails, e.g after an (automatic) over from DGPS to GPS the accuracy is 100 m instead of 10m

switch-• The reliance on pre-set values for "safety depth contours" is dangerous if the sensorinput for depth is inaccurate

• In the automatic track control mode, the observed position is always (!) displayed onthe pre-planned track, even if the off-track error is significantly large (see Appendix2)

• Calculated values, such as ETA at the next waypoint or wheel-over point, depend onthe accuracy of sensors

• The displayed information must be unambiguous For example, the vector type "overground" or "through the water" depends on the type of speed and course input

• A second position-fixing system (Loran-C; radar; dead reckoning) should always beused for position monitoring

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

The instructor should create the awareness that the use of EGOIS without accurate andreliable sensor input is not responsible He might use the performance standards for thenavigation sensors concerned to explain their limits (see the references in Part A) In theexercises, the failure of primary sensors should be simulated repeatedly

The instructor might use the subject "Basic navigational functions and settings" as theinitialization and familiarization unit The trainee should become familiar with the operation

of an EGOIS set, particularly with

• the basic navigational functions and

• the MMI

In addition, this section contains all those general learning objectives which are not specific

to passage planning (EGO IS subject 7) and passage monitoring (EGOIS subject 8), butform the basis for these

The trainee should be enabled to obtain information from the EGOIS display, in particular

• how to find and identify in a short time the information displayed by the main

automatic functions, such as the ship's position, course and speed, range scale etc.;

• how to operate and co-ordinate all manual functions quickly and safely, e.g usingcursor, electronic bearing line, etc., in order to avoid unnecessary delays in criticalsituations;

• how to switch between different modes

It is suggested that the operator, in a first step, should demonstrate the different functions tothe trainees and that the trainees themselves should perform exercises to acquireconfidence in operating an EGOIS set

In this section, the trainees should learn route planning using EGOIS-specific functions Theinstructor might demonstrate the functions for a fictitious route from pier to pier, whereasthe trainees should plan routes for their own exercises which they will execute and monitorthemselves in real time (EGO IS subject 8) The larger part of this section involves exercises

on the workstation

In the exercises, the trainee should plan routes by:

• appraising all relevant information (from EGOIS and other aids);

• the input of waypoints (using the cursor in the chart or by alphanumeric editing);

• combining the waypoints to form legs of a continuous track;

• smoothing and refining the (curved) track by the input of radii of turn, wheel-overpoints, etc.;

• specifying and noting all planning details;

• selecting the safety values ("Safety Oepth" and "Safety Contour") on the basis of theship's dimensions and manoeuvrability;

• taking notice of and reacting to indications and alarms concerning route planning;

• checking the track and assessing the safety of the track (with regard to the ship'ssafety)

The trainee should identify all potential risks of the route and modify the route appropriately The exercises should be such that frequent changing of the selected sea area, scale, etc is necessary during the planning phase The instructor might require that an alternative route ("fall-back route") is prepared based on certain circumstances during the execution and monitoring of the route (EGOIS subject 8).

It is suggested that the course should contain three comprehensive route planning and monitoring lessons with increasing complexity (open sea, coastal, pilotage) At the beginning, the training should start with simple exercises in fairly easy conditions as described in the scenario for "open sea" (Part 82 of this manual) The workload should be increased as the trainees exhibit greater skill This is realized in the timetable (Part 8(2» and the recommendations for the preparation of exercises (Part 02 of this manual).

The intention of this section is that the trainees will execute and monitor planned routes in order to become familiar with the basic EGOIS functions for route monitoring For this purpose, they should select and load a planned route (EGOIS subject 7) The route monitoring should take place in real time, preferably using a full-mission navigation simulator.

The monitoring session will be effective if the trainees have to cope with different situations

in order to enforce flexible and variable use of EGOIS functions This applies both for standard functions such as change of scale, displayed ENG data, vector time, etc and for specific monitoring functions such as look-ahead function, radar overlay, alarms, etc.

Oepending on the progress of the exercise, the instructor may allow the trainees to proceed along the planned route, mostly in standard situations, or he may intervene by simulating intended emergency or other spontaneous situations etc to force the trainees to react to a change in the plan The instructor might even require that an alternative route ("fall-back route") is executed based on certain circumstances.

The assessment and handling of safety alarms related to route monitoring (including the pre-setting of limiting values) and appropriate decision-making if an alarm is given are of particular importance for the proper use of EGOIS.

As in the case of passage planning, it is suggested that the course should contain three comprehensive real-time route monitoring lessons with increasing complexity (open sea, coastal, pilotage).

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

The trainee should know which kinds of update exist and how the ship can receive theseupdates He should update the ship's ENC and be thoroughly aware of the importance andhis responsibilities concerning updating because updating is one of the most essentialsubjects of ECOIS

The instructor might demonstrate on a workstation how to handle updates on board, e.g

• the manual and semi-automatic procedures,

• the marking of added, removed or altered items,

• the display of current updates,

• etc

The need for updated data should be illustrated in the scenarios for passage planning andpassage monitoring where non-updated data are employed to create critical situations andthe trainees have to perform updating ad hoc

4.10 Display and function of other navigational information 1.75 hours

It can be assumed that ECOIS will be used in combination with other navigationalequipment or that ECOIS is part of an integrated navigation system Particularly, radarsuperimposition and automatic track control using ECOIS as the MMI are very effective.Therefore, it is important for the trainee to understand both the advantages and theparticular features in order to avoid any risks

Radar overlay

The following items might occur:

• a difference in the matching of the two displays as a whole (which may be due to anerror in the primary position-fixing system);

• a displacement of individual objects (which may be due to a displacement of a buoy);

• a mis-match of vectors (over ground versus through the water)

Automatic track control

The trainees must be well aware of the fact that the currently existing ship symbol is always(!) displayed on the pre-planned track whatever the positional error may be The observedposition (the "fix") is automatically controlled, not the real ship

AIS ("transponders"

Concerning ship-to-ship communication including the transmission of the ships' positions,

an incorrect position, e.g due to a GPS receiver failure on one ship, is displayed on theECOIS (or radar) display of another ship

The instructor should demonstrate all of these items and incorporate them into theexercises

The potential errors on ECOIS displays can be divided into three groups:

(a) errors in the ECOIS data and display (e.g inaccurate hydrographic data);

(b) errors introduced by sensor input (particularly own ship's position);

(c) errors due to different reference systems

The trainee should acquire a critical attitude in order to minimize these errors by profoundtheoretical background knowledge and, of course, by experience An explanation can begiven in lectures The effects of the most important of these errors should be demonstrated

on the workstation and should appear in the simulator exercises

The trainee should be made aware of errors that are not inherent in the EGOIS system or inits connected units, but result from misunderstanding, inexperience or careless observation

by the operator ("human error")

The most typical errors of interpretation result from:

(a) ignoring overscale of the display;

(b) uncritical acceptance of own ship's position by neglecting the 95% probability of theaccuracy;

(c) ignoring the fact that, in automatic track control mode, the observed position is

controlled, not the real ship;

(d) a difference between true north and gyro north (radar);

(e) confusion of display mode, scale, reference systems, etc.;

(f) confusion of different types of vector stabilization

The trainee can learn how to avoid these errors by profound theoretical backgroundknowledge and, of course, by experience An explanation can be given in lectures Theeffects of the most important of these errors should be demonstrated on the workstationand should appear in the simulator exercises

The importance of alarm handling when using EGOIS for route planning and routemonitoring has already been stressed in Sections 4.7 and 4.8 Because of the high degree

of automation in an EGOIS display, the awareness needed to realize, assess and reactproperly to indicators and particularly to alarms is vital

The different kinds of alarms and indicators of EGOIS can be divided into three groups:

• nautical alarms which may appear during route planning (e.g the planned route iscrossing a safety contour) or during route monitoring (e.g the ship will cross a safetycontour);

• sensor alarms and indicators in the case of a failure or breakdown of a sensor (e.g.position fixing receiver failure during passage monitoring);

• data and chart alarms resulting from a changed geodetic datum or overscale setting.Appendix 5 of the performance standards for EGOIS contains a list of EGOIS "Alarms andindicators" The instructor should give proper weight to this subject in order to enable thetrainees to learn how the alarm settings and alarm levels are applied and what the meaningand importance of the individual indications and alarms are

An explanation can be given in lectures and demonstrations, but a more efficient approachwould be the use of "alarm situations" during simulator exercises

35

OPERATIONAL USE OF ECDIS

The performance standards for EGOIS require "voyage recording", Le a feature to storeand reproduce certain elements to reconstruct the navigation (own ship's past track) and toverify the official database used (ENG source, edition, date, cell and update history) Therecorded information cannot be manipulated

The instructor should demonstrate the reproduction of the navigation and the verification ofthe database used on an EGOIS set He should create awareness that "voyage recording"

is a tool for checking whether or not navigation has been properly and responsiblyperformed

The different methods of testing an ECOIS set for malfunctions should be explained Tomonitor for correct working, the system may incorporate

• self-diagnostic test routines to monitor for correct operation of hardware, operatingsystem and EGOIS kernel during booting and normal operation;

• diagnostic routines which may be executed at the request of the operator, e.g

manual tests of hardware, MMI and sensor data as well as visual tests of chart data

The trainees should be made familiar with these procedures and should practise the teststhemselves

Ouring the exercises, the trainees should also check data accuracy and integrity, e.g by

• comparing radar and EGOIS objects;

• comparing different sensors;

• checking all status indications

The back-up system will have a major impact on the ship's safety in the case of an EGOISblackout It is very important that the trainee is able to achieve a safe and fast takeover ofthe EGOIS system by the back-up system including

• takeover of all relevant passage planning data from EGOIS and

• takeover of all updates

Therefore, the trainee must be familiar with the takeover procedures, and the back-updevice must work properly It is also very important that the trainees navigate as safely aspossible using the back-up system and its reduced functional capabilities

The instructor should demonstrate both a takeover of the back-up system and theprocedures for checking the functioning of the back-up device

Ouring the exercises, an EGOIS breakdown should be simulated and the trainees shouldperform the takeover and navigate using the back-up system and its reduced functionalcapabilities

The instructor should emphasize that EGOIS is only a navigational tool which helps toperform the navigational functions and that its limitations, including those of its sensors,