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2025 Journal Impact Factor - 0.8
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ISSN 2083-6473
ISSN 2083-6481 (electronic version)
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Editor
Prof. Tomasz Neumann
Published by
TransNav, Faculty of Navigation
Gdynia Maritime University
3, John Paul II Avenue
81-345 Gdynia, POLAND
e-mail transnav@umg.edu.pl
Addressing Gaps in MASS Operator Competency Research: Developing the STISA Methodology for Future Work Process Analysis
1 University of Vechta, Vechta, Germany
2 Hochschule Wismar, University of Applied Sciences – Technology, Business and Design, Rostock-Warnemünde, Germany
2 Hochschule Wismar, University of Applied Sciences – Technology, Business and Design, Rostock-Warnemünde, Germany
ABSTRACT: The introduction of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships will require new competencies for Remote Operators and onboard navigators. However, existing competency frameworks are too general to be used for developing curricula in Maritime Education and Training. This paper examines why current frameworks lack specificity and develops the Sensor Technology Impact on MASS Situational Awareness (STISA) methodology as a structured response. A systematic literature review was conducted, in which 25 articles were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The review identified research gaps concerning missing task and process foundations, unsuitable methods, insufficient consideration of sensor technologies, and weak integration of Modes of Operation. These gaps were translated into methodological requirements and used to develop the STISA methodology abductively. The methodology links sensor information, sensor limitations, operational challenges, situational awareness, and Modes of Operation as a basis for deriving future MASS operator work processes. The resulting STISA model remains conceptual and requires empirical validation in future studies.
KEYWORDS: Automation, Maritime Education and Training (MET), Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), Sensor Technology, Situational Awareness (SA), Human Factors, Remote Operations, Competency-Based Training
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Citation note:
Rostek D., Baldauf M.: Addressing Gaps in MASS Operator Competency Research: Developing the STISA Methodology for Future Work Process Analysis. TransNav, the International Journal on Marine Navigation and Safety of Sea Transportation, Vol. 20, No. 3, doi:10.12716/1001.20.03.22, pp. 759-768, 2026
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