Methodical Experiences Gained During the Implementation of Simulator Based Training of Turkish VTS Operators

Özkan POYRAZ, Ph.D.

Maritime Faculty, Istanbul Technical University

Abstract

The Turkish VTS System became operational for the Straits of Istanbul and Canakkale in December 2003. The Maritime Faculty of Istanbul Technical University (ITUMF) was appointed as the Training Institute for newly employed VTS Operators by Turkish Competent Authority. Pilots, nautical experts, hydrographers, salvage, and legal experts have been closely consulted by the ITUMF, which has designed all the courses. ITUMF has also carried out the required training using its own VTS and bridge simulators. All training courses for Turkish Straits-VTS personnel were based on IMO VTS Guidelines and VTS Manual of the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities.

This paper discusses experiences with process of simulator-based training of Turkish VTS Operators. The main parts of the paper cover in particular the following aspects:

• a brief description of the 'operational framework' of Turkish Straits VTS organization
• definition of training objectives and course development for VTS operators
• the design of effective VTS simulator exercise
• differences between VTS simulator training and nautical simulator training
• evaluation of VTS operators (short time memory tests and eye mark movement records)
• feedback from VTS users in Turkish Straits