ECDIS Course for Ship Officers
This course is designed to provide ship officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to
safely and effectively operate Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) in
accordance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations and best practices.
Course Objectives:
Understand the principles and functionalities of ECDIS.
Interpret and utilize Electronic Nautical Charts (ENCs).
Plan and conduct safe passages using ECDIS.
Operate ECDIS effectively for various navigational tasks.
Identify and mitigate potential limitations and risks associated with ECDIS.
Course Content:
Module 1: Introduction to ECDIS
History and development of ECDIS
IMO regulations and guidelines for ECDIS
Components of ECDIS systems
Comparison of ECDIS with paper charts
Module 2: Electronic Nautical Charts (ENCs)
ENC data structure and symbology
ENC updating and version control
ENC accuracy and limitations
Display options and customization
Module 3: ECDIS Operation and Functionality
Basic operation and user interface
Chart navigation and manipulation
Route planning and monitoring
Alarm management and safety features
Interfacing with other navigational equipment
Module 4: Passage Planning with ECDIS
Integrating ECDIS into the passage planning process
Route planning using ECDIS features
Consideration of ENC limitations and potential hazards
Contingency planning and alternative routes
Module 5: Advanced ECDIS Functions
Radar and ARPA overlay
Automatic route monitoring (ARM)
Alarms and safety features
Data recording and playback
User-defined information layers
Module 6: Limitations and Risks of ECDIS
Over-reliance on ECDIS and complacency
Data integrity and accuracy issues
System failures and backups
Maintaining competence and situational awareness
Module 7: ECDIS Familiarization and Training
Importance of ship-specific ECDIS familiarization
Familiarization with onboard ECDIS system
Ongoing training and refresher courses
Assessment:
The course will include a combination of theoretical and practical assessments, such as:
Written exams to test knowledge of ECDIS principles and regulations.
Practical exercises using ECDIS simulators to demonstrate proficiency in operating
the system.
Case studies and scenario-based assessments to evaluate decision-making skills in
using ECDIS for navigation.
Additional Resources:
IMO Model Course 1.27: Operational Use of ECDIS
International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) publications on ENCs
ECDIS manufacturer manuals and training materials
