Workshop in Germany to redefine shipbuilding education

Apr 24, 2024

On April 18th and 19th, 2024, the project consortium concluded its series of workshops with an event in Nuremberg, Germany. Representatives from Italy, Spain, Belgium, and Germany participated in this gathering.

The project, identified as ALL HANDS ON DECK 360 with the project number 2022-1-ES01-KA220-VET-000087373, is dedicated to advancing innovative practices in vocational education and training within the traditional shipbuilding industry, with a specific focus on the historic profession of shipwrights in Europe. 

During the two-day workshop, partners convened to outline the project’s next steps. Primarily, in the forthcoming weeks, visits to shipyards, which will serve as the subjects of 360° virtual tours, are slated for completion. These shipyards will be meticulously documented through video and audio recordings, capturing the core activities essential for novice shipwrights. 

Partners also held a hybrid workshop HOW CAN TRADITIONAL BOATBUILDING KNOWLEDGE BE SHARED DIGITALLY? with broad participation from stakeholders across Europe.

Keynote speeches:

  1. 360-degree tours of shipyards in various maritime areas as a new learning experience. Evelyn Schlenk from ILI FAU, Germany
  2. Examples of two differently built Roman boats. The circumstances of the construction, scientific tests and aftercare. Prof Dr Boris Dreyer, FAU, Germany

Some first takeways from the presentations and follup up discussions:

– Materials like wood offer sustainable alternatives to modern technologies like epoxy, with the added benefit of a healthier working environment – no masks or ear protection requir

– Both traditional and modern materials can used wisely, and we are here to share the knowledge we have

 Here are some of the other topics we were discussing:

  • The shipwright profession in Europe: challenges and opportunities
  • Preserving shipwright heritage and the role of shipwrights in cultural conservation
  • Facilitating intergenerational transfer of knowledge in boatbuilding

The primary objective of the Hand On Deck 360° project is to foster innovative learning methodologies. Immersive learning will serve as a cornerstone in familiarizing young workers with the intricacies of this trade. Leveraging technology, individuals will have unfettered access to shipyards to acquire a comprehensive understanding of various techniques. 

Furthermore, partners are actively compiling a glossary comprising over 1,000 terms relevant to shipbuilding and shipyard operations. These terms will soon be accessible in consortium languages such as Spanish, Italian, and German. Additionally, efforts are underway to select a shipyard for transformation into a digital immersive learning environment. Stay tuned for forthcoming updates and freely accessible resources. 

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