Today we have desktop and notebook computer technology capable of meeting all the visual and modelling requirements of bridge simulation and more. Full bridge simulators are provided on the basis that instructors will be controlling and monitoring exercises. This paper describes how PC Maritime's Rule of the Road training simulator, Officer of the Watch TM , adds control and structure to enable focused delivery of training material and efficient assessment of the students' results. Ease of use.
Few users have time to learn arcane program commands.
The user interface design must be intuitive so that users with limited computer experience are not distracted or delayed by language or culture from attending to the learning objectives of their time on the system. Customer experience has proved that students, with the aid of a 4-page graphic student reference card, are proficient users of Officer of the Watch TM in less than one hour. However, the danger with free-form simulation is that the learning objective of a carefully constructed exercise is destroyed if the student is able to make a premature alteration in course or speed which avoids assessment of the encounter. If however, the simulation is intelligently controlled so that the student is forced to confront the situation designed to test him, he will be motivated to perform well and his attention will be focused on a satisfactory outcome to the exercise. Interaction To provide measurable training outcomes, the system should convey, reinforce and test knowledge and engage the student in the development of his analysis and decision-making skills.