Voyage planning and meteorology (2 cr)

Objective

Knowledge and understanding of and proficiency in:
- planning of the intended voyage and navigation in advance by acceptable methods in plotting ocean tracks, taking into account any special circumstances and factors affecting accuracy of positioning
- ability to interpret weather charts and to forecast weather conditions (including ice) in the sea area concerned
- characteristics of the various weather systems including tropical cyclones, currents, and tides

Content

Voyage planning:
- conduct a voyage plan using all available information and resources needed for safe ocean passages
- considering the special conditions during a voyage
- VTS services

Meteorology:
- weather charts and forecasts
- synoptic meteorology, weather phenomenas
- tropical cyclones
- ice
- ocean currents
- tidal currents

Evaluation

Students can
- use professional vocabulary and concepts in an expert way in different situations
- evaluate information sources critically
- choose appropriate models, methods, software and techniques according to the purpose and justify these choices
- apply critically the ethical principles of the professional field in different situations

In addition, competence evaluation according to STCW code table A-II/2 column 4 are used:
- the reasons for the planned route are supported by facts and statistical data obtained from relevant sources and publications
- positions, courses, distances and time calculations are correct within accepted accuracy standards for navigational equipment
- the likely weather conditions predicted for a determined period are based on all available information
- actions taken to maintain safety of navigation minimize any risk to safety of the ship

Course material

Material from Learn and internet.
Supplementary reading: Ilmakehä, sää ja ilmasto (Karttunen, Koistinen, Saltikoff, Manner)

Study forms and methods

Scheduled track: You will attend teaching and guidance sessions as specified in the schedule. Lectures, learning tasks and training tasks.

Independent track: n/a

Blended track: Discussion with the teacher and, where appropriate, PSP-planning with your own mentor teacher.

RDI and work-related cooperation

The course might includes control hours that can potentially be used for work life projects or visits.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment methods and criteria

Active participation, approved learning tasks, approved exam

Qualifications

Route planning and meteorology