Development of an Online Learning Platform and CPD Material for Naval Architects and Project Managers Working in Offshore Wind and Oil and Gas Sectors

This paper presents the educational pedagogy and development process behind an e-learning platform that is used to transfer design innovation from the interior design and leisure marine industry, as well as Human Factors Integration from the automotive and aerospace sectors, into Wind Farm Support Vessels and associated mothership design. This is achieved through the development of a networking framework and three one day courses: WFSV design; WFSV mothership design; Human Factors Integration (HFI). The HFI course content is transferable to the Oil & Gas industry. The main impact of these courses will be: greater understanding and awareness of the needs of the wind farm vessel industry and the market potential for ship builders; better trained commercial marine industry staff who are more aware of emerging technologies and techniques; marine industry standardised qualifications for Wind Farm Support Vessels. In attempting to achieve these aims, this paper discusses the benefits of peer tutoring in a design online learning environment.