Competency Development Guidelines of Merchant Maritime Cadet After Practical Training: A Case Study of Merchant Marine Training Centre

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) evaluate the expected competencies prior to and the actual performance following the sea training of nautical science students, deck department, Merchant Marine Training Center; and 2) analyze the expected competencies prior to and the actual performance following the sea training of nautical science students, deck department, Merchant Marine Training Center. The sample group consisted of 96 fourth-year nautical science students, deck department. Competency was assessed in three areas: Knowledge, Skill, and Attribute. The questionnaire was divided into two parts: 1) general information of the respondents, and 2) a competency questionnaire for nautical science students before and after sea training, with a 5-level scoring system. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics for all three areas, namely frequency distribution, percentage, mean, and standard deviation (S.D.), as well as the Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) technique.

The research findings evaluated and analyzed Pre-sea expectations and Post-sea performance, with a focus on knowledge, skills, and personal attributes. The results showed that the competence of the Deck department improved significantly after practical training. Specifically, their practical skills transformed from theoretical knowledge learned in the classroom into real-world, applicable skills in actual situations at sea. Simultaneously, personal attributes such as discipline, responsibility, and teamwork also developed notably. These findings are highly valuable for enhancing the curriculum and producing a new generation of seafarers who meet international standards and align with the current demands of the maritime industry, thereby contributing to the advancement of the nation's maritime transportation sector.