Exploiting the didactic possibilities of low-fi simulation in virtual bridge-team communication exercises

The research paper is the second in a series of studies on an improved use of the Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) during an international low-fi simulation exercise in a classroom setting. Following a briefing on the use of relevant SMCP by means of an e-learning platform, students of Maritime English at several maritime universities participated in a virtual bridge team exercise. The communication patterns employed in their situational assessment and decision making were compared to previous low-fi simulations whereby participants had not received any briefing on the use of SMCP prior to the exercise [1] (cf. John et al., 2013). Based on the different features observed in both exercise settings, the scope for using a constructivist learning environment as offered by low-fi simulations is discussed and possibilities for an integral pedagogical approach towards teaching standard phraseology are outlined.