decides on the number of intake for MET studies, on the number of study
places and on basic features of the curriculum.
In summary, it could be said that MET institutes see themselves in a
subordinate role to industry and administration and are often lacking own initiative. MET
is a three- party "game" with MET as the passive player in many countries. In
countries where MET is a six-party game, the potential for conflict is increased.
An important common element in the wider MET environment,
the closer MET environment and in MET: technology
International sea trade and national society are influenced by the
increasing use of computer and IT. This development has brought about and is bringing
about change in operations and work contents that requires continuous adaptation by
employers and employees through education and training.
The increased use of advanced technology on ships, in shipping
companies, in port approaches and ports and in MET has resulted in change that has had and
is having a considerable impact on MET, the requirements from it and the provisions for
it.
The increased use of advanced technology on ships has led to a
reduction in the number of crew. It has, on the other hand, in general, facilitated the
work of seafarers. It has also resulted in a shift of requirements from physical to
psychophysical and psychological. Physical strength is required less than before,
perception and observation capacity is required more. A small number of crew can be a
cause of additional stress.
The increased use of advanced technology in shipping companies has
facilitated the communication with the ship and has allowed to run ships on a "short
leash" from the head office. It has in many cases reduced the formerly relative
independence of shipboard personnel from shore influence.
The increased use of advanced technology in port approaches in the form
of Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) has weakened the ship master s independence of decision.
The movement of his ship is monitored and he is given advice from the shore station on how
to proceed. There are ship masters who perceive VTS as an intrusion but a growing number
of them sees VTS as a valuable support.
The increased use of advanced technology in ports has - in connection
with the development of new ship types, also for new types of cargo - reduced laytimes in
ports. Seafarers are today spending more of their time on the ship at sea than before.
Seafaring is no more an attractive alternative for visiting foreign countries.
The increased us of advanced technology in MET, mainly in the form of
simulators, has improved the quality and effectiveness of training. Technology use on
shipboard has also had an impact on MET syllabuses. There has been a distinct shift to
computer and IT use, a reduction of the importance of electronic navigation by the
