OVERVIEW

The teaching unit aims to provide theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the use of electronic cartography and Geographical Information Systems (GIS), with a focus on Electronic Nautical Cartography (ENC) and the main features of ECDIS (Electronic Chart Systems for Nautical Navigation), knowledge of the functioning of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and its augmented satellite services, the Loran system, the radar and the echosounder technique. Statistical tools for evaluating the accuracy and precision of geospatial measurements and data are also provided.

On the strict operational side, the teaching unit offers a view on modern navigation techniques, watchkeeping and related instruments and procedures, COLREGs, ship's routeing and ship's reporting systems. 

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching unit aims to provide theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the use of electronic cartography and Geographic Information Systems, with a focus on the content, structure and data quality of Electronic Nautical Cartography (ENC) and the main features of ECDIS (Electronic Chart Systems for Nautical Navigation). Furthermore, it is intended to provide knowledge of the principles, operation, error sources and correction methods of modern electronic navigation aids, in order to achieve accurate position fixing. In particular, the use of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology and its augmented satellite services, the Loran system and echosounder technique are explored. Statistical tools for assessing the accuracy and precision of position fixes are also introduced. From a strictly operational point of view, the teaching unit provides an insight into modern navigation techniques, watchkeeping and related instruments and procedures, such as radar, COLREGs, ship routing and signalling systems. Operational activities will mainly take place in lab and bridge simulator environment.

PREREQUISITES

The notions provided by the Navigation teaching unit 

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The examination for both teaching units is both written and oral. The written exam consists of questions to ascertain knowledge of the theoretical concepts of the teaching. The oral exam consists of presenting and discussing a personal application similar to the practical experience carried out during the teaching and/or a short paper deepening one of the proposed topics.

The examination may be taken online in the cases provided for in the University Regulations.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The final grade will take into account both the knowledge of the theoretical concepts and the quality of the application carried out (processing and analysis techniques employed, strategies for solving any problems encountered), critical discussion of the results obtained and expository ability.

The quality of oral and written presentation will be evaluated, as it is considered preparatory to the students' future working life.