In the ever-evolving landscape of maritime education, a novel approach to training marine electrical engineers is making waves. Rona Riantini, an electrical engineering professor at the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember in Surabaya, Indonesia, has developed a serious game that simulates electrical troubleshooting scenarios on ships. This innovative method, detailed in the Journal of Maritime Science (formerly known as the Journal of Eta Maritime Science), is set to revolutionize how marine electrical engineers hone their skills.
The game, built using Unreal Engine 5, allows students to practice troubleshooting without the risk of real-world consequences. It’s a safe, flexible, and accessible way to learn, as Riantini explains, “Serious games offer a unique opportunity for students to gain experience in troubleshooting without concern for safety or system damage.”
The impact of this approach is substantial. In a study involving 40 marine electrical engineering students, the game significantly improved test scores, with a t-statistic of 2.242 and a p-value of 0.031. But perhaps more importantly, it sparked a keen interest in further learning, scoring an impressive 4.4 out of 5. This indicates that the game not only enhances knowledge but also boosts confidence.
The commercial implications of this research are vast. Shipping companies could use this technology to train their staff more effectively, reducing the time and resources spent on traditional training methods. Moreover, the game’s multi-location scenario feature could be particularly beneficial for companies with ships operating in diverse regions, as it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of various electrical systems.
Maritime academies and training institutions could also adopt this approach to enrich their curricula. The game’s flexibility and accessibility make it an ideal tool for distance learning, enabling students to practice troubleshooting anytime, anywhere.
In the broader context, this research underscores the potential of serious games in maritime education and training. As Riantini notes, “These results underscore the potential of serious games for marine electrical engineering and broader maritime education and training applications.” This is a significant step forward in leveraging technology to enhance maritime safety and efficiency.