ICS Academy advances maritime training through global accessibility

The maritime industry is embracing an exciting digital transformation, writes Sarah Lovell (pictured), Technical Content Development Manager, International Chamber of Shipping.

“With over 70 per cent of maritime training professionals anticipating increased adoption of e-learning in the coming years, according to the World Maritime University's MarTID survey, we're witnessing an unprecedented opportunity to enhance maritime education globally. As Technical Content Development Manager at ICS Publications and a driving force behind the International Chamber of Shipping Academy, I'm proud to share how we're delivering accessible, effective digital training that serves seafarers operating across the world's oceans.

“The ICS Academy was designed with a clear vision: to allow seafarers to access learning that helps them with their jobs, no matter where they are from, what their internet connection is like, and they need nothing more than a smart phone to access it. Our inclusive approach recognises the diverse backgrounds of professionals in our industry.

“This diversity has become our greatest strength, inspiring us to develop functional and reliable training solutions that truly work for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. For example, our read-aloud functionality allows users to listen to course content, accommodating different learning preferences and supporting seafarers who don’t have English as a first language.

“The ICS Academy's mobile-first design recognises that seafarers need flexible, accessible training that adapts to their schedules and locations. All our courses can be downloaded, which enables continuous learning regardless of connectivity. This considered approach has resulted in a platform that delivers consistent, high-quality learning across multiple devices and environments.

“The ICS Academy showcases how proven learning methodologies can be enhanced through accessible digital formats. Our helicopter operations courses follow a ship's voyage, allowing learners to experience operations in realistic, engaging contexts. The ‘operating the engine under low loads’ course enables users to inspect different components and make informed decisions, simulating real engine inspections with remarkable accuracy. Our ‘preparing for inspections in the engine room’ course serves as an invaluable aide memoire, providing quick reference support before critical inspections, including port state control inspections.

“Each course incorporates strategically placed knowledge checks throughout the course - assessment tools that provide immediate contextual feedback based on learner responses - reinforcing understanding and building confidence.

“Our content uses maritime data, including port state control deficiencies, findings from concentrated inspection campaigns, feedback from users and emerging industry trends, to ensure our training scenarios reflect the actual challenges seafarers encounter.

“The ICS Academy represents the future of maritime training - easy-to-access learning technology delivered through intuitive, practical solutions. Our platform is designed to help shipping companies deliver high quality training that can be accessed both on and offline using technology that is already available on board. Our success stems from combining cutting-edge educational technology with deep maritime expertise, creating training solutions that not only meet current industry needs but anticipate future challenges.

“The result is a learning platform that empowers seafarers with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their careers while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence.”

For more information about the ICS Academy and its course offerings, visit https://www.ics-shipping.org/academy/