A distance learning course …Information Technology Training for Seafarers
This course is intended to provide seafarers with the opportunity to gain basic
competencies in computing and a number of common office applications. Most ships
these days rely on computer technology for daily operations and hence there is a
need for all on board to develop a suitable level of computing skills.
Unlike other IT courses, this one has been written with the seafarer in mind, so many
of the tasks and examples have a marine flavour.
Many seafarers today will have received little or no formal IT training and may have
had to teach themselves. Teaching yourself may not be good enough when so many
ship operations demand computer literacy. A better approach is to undertake a
structured training course to an approved standard. As well as being a more
effective approach, a structured course can provide the seafarer with a recognised
qualification. For many, a distance learning course offers an ideal opportunity to
study. This Videotel course is designed for seafarers and is accredited by Oxford,
Cambridge and Royal Society of Arts (OCR), a leading UK-based accreditation
organisation.
This entry-level course (as defined by OCR) is divided into the following six
modules:-
Basic Theory
File Management
Word Processing
Spreadsheets
Internet/Email
Database
In addition there are three elective additional modules covering the following topics:-
Presentation Graphics
Graphs and Charts
Using a Computer
Each module has clearly defined learning and assessment objectives.
Students wishing to gain the qualification must enrol on the course and submit their
assessments for marking. Qualification is dependent on completion of the 6 modules
within an agreed time period. Successful candidates will receive a recognised
certificate from Videotel, endorsed by OCR. Seafarers not wishing to enrol on the
course may study whichever modules they wish. Those enrolled can receive
assistance in their studies through the course’s email-based help-desk.
Successful students can build on this course towards higher level qualifications in IT
and associated studies to National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and beyond.
The course aims to provide a flexible approach to gaining IT skills. It has been
designed with seafarers in mind and offers the support seafarers need. The course
is delivered on CD-ROM with associated printed self-help tests, exercises and
assessments. Enrolled students are encouraged to submit their assessments by
email.
This course is produced and administered in association with Blackpool and The
Fylde College, one of the UK’s leading maritime and Further Education colleges.