A new course--Navigation Fundamentals--has been added to the curriculum for deck department members at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md.April 14 was the first day of class for three Seafarers--ABs Michael Thomas, Ben Barnes and Charlene Edwards--who enrolled in the 70-hour course taught by instructor Stacy Harris.
The curriculum is designed to introduce students to terrestrial navigation at a basic level. Students will be instructed in time, speed and distance relationships; compass theory; bearings; dead reckoning; running fixes; and set and drift. They also will learn the fundamentals of chart work. Additionally, Navigation Fundamentals is an excellent preparatory course for radar and lower-level licenses.
Barnes, who started his career with the SIU in New Orleans in 1990, said that this new course gives students a taste of what they need in order to be an officer in charge of a navigational watch.
Thomas, who joined the union in 1991 while working aboard the American Hawaii cruise ships, agreed, noting that this is the only setting in which to learn the basics of chart work, something that can't be done aboard ship.
Both give credit to their instructor, Stacy Harris, for making this "one of the finest courses offered at Piney Point."
While all three students in this first class are in the deep sea division, they believe inland members can benefit as well. "It is a must for any member who wants to pursue a license," they agreed.
ABs with no less than 360 days of sea service are eligible to enroll in the course. Basic and intermediate math skills are recommended.
The next sessions of Navigation Fundamentals are scheduled for June 9 through June 20 and August 4 through August. 15. These classes and all other upgrading courses are listed in the Seafarers LOG every month.
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