Marine Simulators as a Tool for Studies in
Experimental Psychology
Capt. Willi Wittig, MSc.
Bremen Polytechnic, Department of Nautical Studies
Abstract
It is reported that about 80% of all accidents at sea are due to human
error. In order to reduce this figure it is essential to research human behaviour and to
learn more about the limits of the human being on board.
A very powerful tool to conduct this kind of research work could be any
kind of marine simulator, which until now have been used mainly as a training tool or as a
research tool to solve technical problems.
The paper reviews the current situation, highlights different potential
research areas and encourages training and research institutions to conduct studies in
experimental psychology making use of their marine simulators.
Keywords: experimental psychology, human behaviour, human error,
simulator
1. Introduction
During the last years the attention of the general public was attracted
by a number of very serious sea accidents, like e.g. the "Exxon Valdez", the
"Braer", the "Jan Heweliusz", etc.
According to investigations into these casualties they have to be
classified as caused by
