NMS303 Coursework 1 SOP Critical Evaluation Briefing Notes 2022-23 v1
Overview
A critical review of the performance of an observed group using SOPs for either MOB or fire aboard a university boat. Groups will be formed and uploaded to Moodle with a timetabled date for the exercise. Each group will conduct an SOP whilst being observed and observe another group conducting one.
Detailed guidance
Using a maximum of 3000 words (note appendices are not included in the word count)
The observing team will objectively evaluate the other team’s performance and will create a critical review of their performance using the safety SOP’s (provided on Moodle) as guidance.
It is essential to create a detailed timeline of events (including narration by staff) actions of crew commands and responses, communication loops (internal and external), vessel movement, crew movement events etc. This needs to be very high resolution and careful thought is required to ensure individuals (coded) actions and coms can clearly be tracked and interactions can be understood. Think about multiple parallel horizontal elements with vertical relationships, colour coding and methods of showing closed and open loop communications. You may also consider a horizontal element that identifies adherence to SOP’s.
We will discuss the timeline in the classroom briefing in detail as it is a key element in this work!
You will need to consider your recording methodology carefully. You may employ video cameras and audio recording devices (the department has a go pro available from Tim Davies but feel free to bring your own) and mobile telephones are acceptable but synchronisation across devices will need to be achieved!
Remember the events will occur in a compressed time frame and it is vital to have a clear record of all actions, commands, responses along with outcomes. (Do not underestimate the difficulty in achieving this) particularly as the crew will be split between wheelhouse and deck and the weather may be inclement.
You will go on to perform a logical critical written analysis of the events in conjunction with the timeline, the SOPs and the observed outcomes. You should identify adherence/deviation from the SOP’s, any weaknesses in SOP’s and associated documentation and compliance with good seamanship and national and international regulation. The work should be fully supported by reference to quality sources both on regulation, seamanship but also: skill development/task training and development/ communication/leadership theories and models. Again, this is a significant component of the work and must show deep study and research.
You will then provide a list of recommendations as if you were a consultant contracted to help improve safety aboard this vessel identifying gaps, strategies for mitigation as well identification of good practice and it’s maintenance.
Further guidance
Each student will submit a Microsoft Word copy of the final group piece (this will be the same for all group members)
Marks will be awarded for
Marks will be awarded in the following categories:
Presentation and organisation 10%
Quality of timeline/frame of events 30%
Quality of analysis 20%
Quality of recommendations 20%
Quality of research evidenced by source/references 20%
The work will be supported by micro tutorials aboard and in sessions leading up to the exercise.