Videotel Marine International, a leading supplier of training software solutions to the maritime industry, has responded to the growing importance of Electronic Charts Display Information Systems (ECDIS) by launching a brand new course.

As ECDIS systems are becoming an increasingly significant part of maritime navigation, the course provides a clear and comprehensive explanation of current international law and explains the differences between various types of electronic charts.

Captain Milind Karkhanis, Videotel Vice President, comments: “The course includes exercises that simulate some of the key functions of using an ECDIS system. Completing the course gives an understanding of both the benefits and limitations of ECDIS, together with a practical grasp of how it can be used for navigation and passage planning.”

This interactive, computer-based training course consists of five modules: an introduction to ECDIS, understanding ECDIS, two modules on using ECDIS, and the exercises. The course is presented in English on CD-ROM using short video sequences, graphics and interactive elements. It can be undertaken in seven hours of study and when completion of the final test has been authenticated, Videotel will issue a standard course certificate. Completion of optional assignments is acknowledged by the award of an ECDIS Advanced Course Certificate. 

Videotel’s ECDIS training course has been designed for shipboard personnel who have responsibility for, and already have a good knowledge of navigation and passage planning. The course can be undertaken on board ship or ashore and is for individual self-study.

Videotel’s courses continue to be of a high standard. Its Risk Assessment at Sea training course has recently been given full approval from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UK).