Assessment 2: Research Essay

Module: Maritime Operations and Management

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)

Course: BSc (Hons) Maritime Studies

Semester: 2, Academic Year: 2025/2026

Submission Date: 15 April 2026

Weighting: 50% of Module Mark

Context

This assessment focuses on the evolving role of technology in the maritime industry. Recent advancements in autonomous shipping technologies are reshaping traditional seafaring practices, requiring professionals to adapt to new operational paradigms. You will explore how these changes affect skills development and competency requirements for future maritime personnel. Drawing from current industry trends, this essay encourages critical analysis of the balance between technological innovation and human expertise in ensuring safe and efficient maritime operations.

Task Description

Write a 2000-word research essay that examines the impact of autonomous shipping on skills and competency requirements for seafarers. Your essay should discuss key challenges, such as shifts in training needs, potential job role transformations, and strategies for upskilling the workforce. Include an analysis of regulatory frameworks and case studies from global maritime sectors to support your arguments.

Requirements

• Word count: 2000 words (+/- 10%), excluding references and appendices.
• Format: Use Arial font, size 12, with 1.5 line spacing. Include a title page with your student ID, module code, and word count.
• Structure: Introduction, main body with subsections, conclusion, and a reference list in Harvard style.
• Sources: Incorporate at least 8 academic sources, including peer-reviewed journals and industry reports.
• Submission: Upload via the university’s online portal by the deadline. Late submissions will incur penalties as per LJMU policy.
• Academic Integrity: All work must be original; plagiarism will result in disciplinary action.

Marking Criteria / Rubric

1. Understanding of Topic (20%): Demonstrates clear grasp of autonomous shipping concepts and their implications for skills and competencies.
2. Critical Analysis (30%): Provides in-depth evaluation of challenges and strategies, supported by evidence.
3. Research and Referencing (20%): Uses a range of credible sources with accurate Harvard citations.
4. Structure and Clarity (15%): Logical flow, well-organized sections, and coherent arguments.
5. Writing Quality (15%): Grammar, spelling, and academic tone appropriate for university level.

Autonomous shipping represents a significant shift in how vessels operate at sea, reducing the need for constant human intervention on board. This technology relies on advanced sensors and AI to navigate and manage ship functions, which in turn demands new competencies from shore-based operators. Training programs must evolve to include digital literacy and remote monitoring skills to prepare seafarers for these roles. Regulatory bodies like the International Maritime Organization are updating standards to address these changes, ensuring safety remains paramount. One key challenge is bridging the gap between traditional nautical expertise and emerging tech proficiencies. Effective strategies involve collaborative efforts between educational institutions and industry to develop hybrid curricula that blend practical seafaring with technological training. As highlighted in a study on competency frameworks, integrating simulation-based learning can enhance readiness for autonomous environments (Sharma et al., 2023, https://doi.org/10.3390/su151410928).

Sharma, A., Kim, T. E., Nazir, S. and Chae, C., 2023. Catching up with time? Examining the STCW convention’s capacity to facilitate upskilling of seafarers for a decarbonised shipping industry. Marine Policy, 156, p.105816. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2023.105816

Fan, S., Yang, Z., Blanco-Davis, E., Zhang, J. and Yan, X., 2022. Analysis of maritime transport accidents using Bayesian networks. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part O: Journal of Risk and Reliability, 236(3), pp.436-454. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/1748006X20984520

Mallam, S. C., Sharma, A., Sætrevik, B. and Nazir, S., 2024. The human element in future Maritime Operations–perceived impact of autonomous shipping. Ergonomics, 67(3), pp.334-345. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/00140139.2022.2077277

Emad, G. R., Nanayakkara, S. and Kavirathna, C. A., 2023. Identifying challenges in designing and implementing a skills and competency framework for future seafarers: a systematic literature review. Australian Journal of Maritime & Ocean Affairs, 15(3), pp.219-243. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/18366503.2023.2356365