Engaging Maritime Students in Lifelong Learning as Teacher’s Prime Mission [Abstract]

Aim/Purpose: The present research is devoted to teaching and training students in marine institutions of higher education including navigators that given the dynamic development of the maritime industry should still be in the early stages of education involved by teacher to lifelong learning and be able to teach others. Background: The rapid development of the marine industry, modern ship technical equipment, the constant tightening of requirements for ship owners in the environmental protection and cyber security fields are forcing teachers of maritime educational institutions to constantly improve their approaches to training future maritime specialists competitive in the labour market. The present study shows some solutions to this problem. Methodology: The used methodical methods are observations, conversations, questionnaires, analysis of students' coursework and diploma papers, cadets rating. The basis of the research is a detailed analysis of the studying process of the academic discipline “Ship’s theory and design” by cadets of the Marine Academy. Contribution: Ways to create the cadet’s and the future marine specialist’s ability to constantly develop and learn during his professional life as well as be able to be a mentor are presented. Findings: The study found that within the framework of the teacher’s main mission in marine education and in accordance with the conducted research mastery of competencies by the future navigator takes place in several important and different substantive directions. Among them there is a classical theoretical and practical training (in the laboratory and on board); investigation of accidents occurring in the world in the fleet; participation in research work with trainers, membership in international and local maritime communities and mentoring and as an extra result the formation of students’ critical and creative thinking. Recommendations for Practitioners: Possible application of the research results in the training of specialists from other various sectors of the economy. Recommendation for Researchers: The importance of introducing a competency approach (Competency Based Education) in the initial training of specialists in the maritime industry is emphasized in this paper. Therefore, it will be relevant for researchers in related areas. Impact on Society: Developing a student's ability to lifelong learning, being ready to understand and adopt technological progress is a possible way to form a conscious, healthy member of society. Future Research: The effectiveness of distance education and applying of innovative technologies in the navigators training is a priority research area.