Enhancing Simulation Training Through the Utilization of Transas Engine Room Simulator for Marine Engineering Students at CTU – Carmen
Monette D. Apor | Jelissa G. Flores | Dindo M. Chin
Discipline: Education
Abstract:
This study explores the use of the TRANSAS Engine Room Simulator (ERS) to enhance simulation-based training for third-year Marine Engineering students at Cebu Technological University – Carmen Campus. It investigates how simulation technology bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the maritime industry. The research specifically evaluates the ERS’s effectiveness in skill development, considers the influence of students’ socio-demographic profiles, and identifies areas for improvement in simulation training. A descriptive- comparative research design with a quantitative approach was used, involving surveys of third-year Marine Engineering students. Data collected included socio-demographic information, technological knowledge of key operations (e.g., generator synchronization, boiler firing sequence), and simulator handling skills. Findings show that the Engine Room Simulator (ERS) significantly improves student engagement, knowledge retention, and operational proficiency. However, gaps were identified in areas such as troubleshooting and data interpretation, suggesting the need for enhanced training modules. The results highlight the importance of integrating advanced simulation technologies into maritime education to support both theoretical learning and hands-on competence. The study recommends tailoring training modules to students' backgrounds, regularly updating simulator content, and incorporating targeted instruction in weaker skill areas. These improvements will help develop a more effective simulation training program, better preparing students for real-world challenges in the maritime industry.
References:
- Abeysiriwardhane, A. (2021). Learning and learning-to-learn by doing: An experien-tial learning approach for integrating human factors into maritime design edu-cation. Maritime Technology and Re-search, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2021.241912
- Abid, M., Suhrab, M. I., & Hammad, M. (2024). Factors contributing towards effective maritime simulator training: A systematic literature review. Australian Journal of Maritime & Ocean Affairs, 17(1), 158–172. https://doi.org/10.1080/18366503.2024.2322881
- Alimen, R., & Pador, R. L. (2014). Essentiality and Practicability of Engine Room Simu-lator ( Ers) Training Course Onboard Ship , 37 6-38 1.
- Ceylan, B. O., Karatuğ, Ç., & Arslanoğlu, Y. (2022). A novel methodology for the use of engine simulators as a tool in academic studies. Journal of Marine Science and Technology, 27(4), 1220–1232. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00773-022-00902-9
- Choi, J., & Park, H. (2022). Continuous profes-sional development and hands-on train-ing: Enhancing technical abilities and ef-fectiveness in engineering education. Journal of Engineering Education Re-search, 45(3), 215–229.
- Choi, J., Kim, Y., & Park, H. (2023). Immersive simulation tools for improving hands- on learning and decision-making abilities in engineering education. International Journal of Simulation and Training, 58(2), 98–112.
- Efgivia, M. G., Adora Rinanda, R. Y., Suriyani, Hidayat, A., Maulana, I., & Budiarjo, A. (2021). Analysis of constructivism learn-ing theory. Advances in Social Science, Education and Humanities Research. https://doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.211020.032
- Karahalil, M., Lützhöft, M., & Scanlan, J. (2024). Factors impacting curricula in maritime simulator-based education. WMU Journal of Maritime Affairs. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13437-024-00351-8
- Kim, S., Lee, J., & Park, M. (2022). User-friendly interfaces and their role in stu-dent engagement and comprehension in simulation tools. Educational Technolo-gy Research, 40(4), 120–134.
- Kim, T., Sharma, A., Bustgaard, M., Gyldensten, W. C., Nymoen, O. K., Tusher, H. M., & Nazir, S. (2021). The continuum of simu-lator-based maritime training and Educa-tion. WMU Journal of Maritime Affairs, 20(2), 135–150. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13437-021-00242-2
- Kolb, D. A. (2022). Experiential learning: Expe-rience as the source of learning and de-velopment. Pearson Education.
- Lee, J., Kim, H., & Choi, S. (2022). Structured training programs for enhancing safety and efficiency in mechanical systems. Journal of Mechanical Engineering Edu-cation, 36(1), 67–81.
- Lee, J., Kim, S., & Park, Y. (2023). Well-structured simulation training programs for professional challenges in mechanical systems. Mechanical Systems Education Quarterly, 39(1), 45–60.
- Mendez, R., Santos, J., & Villanueva, E. (2022). The impact of demographic factors on simulation-based learning outcomes. Ad-vances in Educational Methods for Engi-neering, 27(5), 134–147.
- Prakash Chand, S. (2023). Constructivism in education: Exploring the contributions of Piaget, Vygotsky, and bruner. Interna-tional Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), 12(7), 274–278. https://doi.org/10.21275/sr23630021800
- Rullah , Z., & Zaini, H. B. (2023). Constructiv-ism learning theoryapplications in mari-time engine-room simulator (ers) and 21st century classroom. ALAM Journal of Maritime Studies, 4(1e), 31–39.
- Shevchenko, V. (2017). Requirements For Fur-ther Improvement Of Engine Room Simulators In The Educational, Training And Research System. The 13 Th International Conference on Engine Room Simulators, 102–108.
- Singh, A., Patel, R., & Kumar, N. (2022). Ad-vanced simulation tools in engineering education for hands-on skills enhance-ment. Engineering Education Innovations Journal, 22(4), 341–355.
- Tan, L., Wu, Z., & Zhang, X. (2023). The influ-ence of demographic characteristics on participation in simulation-based training program. Journal of Training and Devel-opment, 48(2), 175–189.
- Wang, Y., Derakhshan, A., & Zhang, L. J. (2021). Researching and practicing posi-tive psychology in second/foreign lan-guage learning and teaching: The past, current status and Future Directions. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.731721
- Zaini , Z. (2020). The effectiveness of engine room simulator (ERS) as a learning tool in maritime education and training (MET). World Maritime University. https://doi.org/https://commons.wmu.se/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2390&context=all_dissertations
- Zajda, J. (2021). Constructivist learning theory and creating effective learning environ-ments. Globalisation, Comparative Educa-tion and Policy Research, 35–50. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-71575-5_3
- Zhang, J., Raza, M., Khalid, R., Parveen, R., & Ramírez-Asís, E. H. (2021). Retracted ar-ticle: Impact of Team Knowledge Man-agement, problem solving competence, interpersonal conflicts, Organizational Trust on Project Performance, a mediat-ing role of Psychological Capital. Annals of Operations Research, 326(S1), 41–42. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-021-04334-3
- Zhou, K., Lin, H., & Zhang, P. (2023). Interac-tive educational settings and their appeal to younger demographics in technology-based learning. . International Journal of Education Technology, 51(1), 89–102.