will depend upon many factors, but the litmus test will be that the
instructor or assessor verifies that the trainee concerned has demonstrated an ability to
perform a function or task safely and effectively against established criteria. In each
case the criteria must clearly relate to appropriate criteria specified in column 4 of the
tables of competency. Regarding the use of modern technology such as simulators, the
specific requirements of A-I/12 and guidelines in B-I/12 are discussed in section 8 below.
The objective and scope of the examination must assess a candidate's
competence, and not just the knowledge base, and evaluate the ability to apply relevant
knowledge to performance of practical tasks. Figure 2 again shows the format of
examinations that may be used. It is important that examination characteristics such as
validity, reliability, level of difficulty, balance, practicality and economy are selected
that best assess the competence required. The use of competence criteria which are
qualitative in nature helps to reduce the subjective element in examinations, although
this can never be eradicated. The reliability of assessment criteria and test items should
be verified in use before validating.
8. USE OF SIMULATORS
STCW95 only makes the use of simulators mandatory for Radar and ARPA
training. Performance standards for radar and ARPA simulation are laid down in Part A of
the Code and must be met by all new simulators after 1st February 2002. Existing
simulators or those brought into use before 2002 must also comply with the performance
standards from 1 February 1997 unless exempted from full compliance by the party
concerned. However, there appears to be no time limit on such exemptions.
Note however that exemptions do not apply to other provisions dealing
with the use of simulators by instructors and assessors. These must be complied with by
all simulator users from 1st February 1997.
Similarly, if a party wishes to use simulators for the assessment of
any competency or to demonstrate any continued proficiency required by Part A of the Code,
such simulators must also comply with the performance standards contained in section
A-I/12 unless exempted as before.
