Supervision During Cadets’ Onboard Training Basis for Enhancement Plan

This study examined the level of supervision experienced by Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE) cadets of the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) during their onboard training. Specifically, it determined the demographic profile of cadets based on vessel route and type, assessed the level of supervision during onboard training, and examined whether significant differences existed in supervision when grouped according to vessel route and type. The study revealed that the majority of the BSMarE cadets of the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) were deployed on domestic vessels, particularly Ro-Ro passenger ships. Results further showed that onboard supervisors consistently provided instructions before assigning tasks/duties to cadets and regularly allowed them to perform engine watchkeeping duties. Giving feedback after the task/s, as well as guiding them on their onboard training plan and sea projects, was often provided. However, inspection of cadets’ Training Record Book (TRB) by the chief engineer and the company representative was only conducted occasionally. Cadets were also sometimes assigned duties that were not in their TRB, while manuals and computer-based training materials were sometimes just provided. Study time and review were just given sometimes as well. The study also found no significant differences in the level of supervision when cadets were grouped according to vessel route or vessel type. Likewise, vessel characteristics such as route and type were not significant predictors of the level of supervision experienced by cadets. These findings suggest that factors beyond vessel characteristics, such as company training policies, the competence and commitment of supervising officers, and the implementation of structured onboard training programs, may play a more important role in determining the quality of supervision during cadetship. The study recommends improving monitoring mechanisms and establishing more shipping companies with structured training programs to improve the overall onboard training experience of maritime cadets.