Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools
This master's trains you to create, manage and deliver online training programs adapted to the specific needs of the maritime sector. You will learn to design interactive courses with instructional design methods aligned with STCW, run LMS platforms that also work with limited connectivity on board, produce multimedia content with authoring tools such as Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate and H5P, integrate remote simulators and immersive technologies, assess competencies online and manage the quality of e-learning in nautical schools.
Prior knowledge check
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What is the Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools?
This master's covers the digital transformation of nautical education from strategy to classroom. You will study e-learning models, IMO and STCW guidance on distance learning and andragogy for working seafarers; LMS platforms, offline-first solutions, SCORM, xAPI and cmi5, data protection and learning analytics; instructional design with ADDIE, SAM and backward design, problem-based learning, microlearning and gamification; video, podcast, interactive and 3D content production and open educational resources; cloud-based navigation, engine room and GMDSS simulators; virtual, augmented and mixed reality; competency assessment and remote proctoring; e-learning for recreational boating licenses and continuing professional training; and quality management under ISO 9001 and ISO 21001.
What sets this master's apart: it is written for the real conditions of maritime training, where learners may be at sea with limited bandwidth, courses must map to STCW competencies and maritime administrations audit the evidence of learning; it covers both professional seafarer education and the recreational boating school market; and it combines an integrating project, in which you design and prototype a complete e-learning or blended program for a nautical school, with a Final Project of your own choice.
Program highlights
- E-learning foundations for nautical education: IMO and STCW guidance, andragogy and blended learning for practical subjects.
- LMS platforms and connectivity at sea: Moodle, Canvas, offline-first learning, SCORM, xAPI, cmi5 and learning analytics.
- Nautical instructional design: ADDIE, SAM, STCW-based objectives, case method, microlearning and gamification.
- Multimedia production with Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate and H5P, video, podcasts, animation and open resources.
- Remote simulators, virtual labs and immersive XR technologies integrated into the learning platform.
- Competency assessment, remote proctoring, digital badges and quality management under ISO 9001 and ISO 21001.
Syllabus of the Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools
11 modules. Select a module to see its content.
Fundamentals of e-learning and digital transformation in nautical education
- 1.1. Evolution of nautical education: from traditional classroom instruction to e-learning and blended learning
- 1.2. International regulatory framework for maritime e-training: IMO guidance and the STCW Convention
- 1.3. Pedagogical models applied to online maritime education: behaviorism, cognitivism and connectivism
- 1.4. Digital andragogy: learning strategies for adults and working seafarers
- 1.5. Analysis of technological limitations on board: satellite connectivity, bandwidth and data synchronization
- 1.6. Architecture of an e-learning project for the maritime sector: phases, resources and feasibility
- 1.7. Digital competencies of nautical teachers and marine science students
- 1.8. Blended learning models for subjects with a heavy practical and workshop component
- 1.9. Accessibility, usability and universal design for learning (UDL) in virtual nautical environments
- 1.10. Analysis of successful digitalization cases at merchant marine faculties and nautical centers worldwide
LMS platforms, virtual environments and connectivity on board
- 2.1. Selection and evaluation of learning management systems (LMS) for nautical schools: Moodle, Canvas and proprietary solutions
- 2.2. Configuration and customization of LMS platforms adapted to the maritime environment for synchronous and asynchronous work
- 2.3. Offline-first e-learning solutions: content download and automatic synchronization after disembarkation or in port
- 2.4. Integration of the e-learning platform with the academic management systems and databases of the nautical center
- 2.5. E-learning standards and interoperability: SCORM, LTI, xAPI (Experience API) and cmi5 in maritime training
- 2.6. Information security, data protection (GDPR) and identity verification of remote learners
- 2.7. Administration of virtual classrooms and videoconferencing tools for nautical instruction
- 2.8. Multi-device content management: optimizing platforms for tablets, smartphones and computers on board
- 2.9. Learning analytics to track cadet progress and predict dropout
- 2.10. Technical audit and server infrastructure for large-scale nautical training schools
Nautical instructional design and active online methodologies
- 3.1. Instructional design models applied to the naval field: ADDIE, SAM and backward design
- 3.2. Writing learning objectives and observable outcomes based on the STCW Code
- 3.3. Problem-based learning (PBL) and the case method applied to real maritime emergencies and accidents
- 3.4. Microlearning for crews: short training units designed to be completed on board
- 3.5. Gamification in nautical teaching: game mechanics for acquiring safety routines
- 3.6. Design of personalized learning paths for different departments (deck, engine, radio, passenger services)
- 3.7. Collaborative online learning for solving exercises in ship kinematics and ship stability
- 3.8. Storyboarding and scripting of interactive technical content for celestial and coastal navigation
- 3.9. Tutoring strategies and forum facilitation in maritime regulation and IMO English subjects
- 3.10. Evaluation and continuous redesign of online training based on learner feedback
Multimedia content creation and maritime open educational resources
- 4.1. Production of educational video to demonstrate maneuvers, knots, drills and machinery maintenance
- 4.2. Creation of podcasts and audio resources for training in maritime English (SMCP) and GMDSS communications
- 4.3. Authoring tools for developing interactive content (Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, H5P)
- 4.4. Design of technical infographics, 3D diagrams and illustrations of naval architecture and installations
- 4.5. Reusable learning objects (RLO) and open educational resource (OER) repositories in marine sciences
- 4.6. 2D and 3D animation to explain stability phenomena, wave regimes and fluid mechanics
- 4.7. Pedagogical writing and instructional tone in digital manuals and e-books for the maritime sector
- 4.8. Assessment of the aesthetic, technical and didactic quality of the multimedia resources produced
- 4.9. Management of copyright, Creative Commons licenses and intellectual property in virtual learning environments
- 4.10. Curation of specialized digital content on seamanship, fishing and maritime transport
Remote nautical simulation and virtual laboratories
- 5.1. The role of simulation in nautical training and its integration with e-learning platforms
- 5.2. Cloud-based navigation and maneuvering simulators for remote access
- 5.3. Virtual engine room and electrical plant laboratories: asynchronous training in troubleshooting
- 5.4. GMDSS communication simulators in interconnected web environments
- 5.5. Integration of cargo, stability and structural stress calculation software into the learning platform
- 5.6. Design of remote simulation scenarios: graded difficulty and adverse weather conditions
- 5.7. Capture of simulator performance data through xAPI for the assessment of practical performance
- 5.8. Remote real-time assessment of maneuvers and synchronous debriefing through the virtual classroom
- 5.9. Maintenance, updating and licensing of networked graphic simulation software
- 5.10. Technical contingency protocols for connection failures during supervised simulation sessions
Immersive technologies: virtual, augmented and mixed reality in naval training
- 6.1. Introduction to extended reality (XR) and its impact on safety and naval inspection training
- 6.2. Virtual reality (VR) to simulate fires on board, evacuation and survival at sea
- 6.3. Augmented reality (AR) for recognizing components in engine rooms and deck systems
- 6.4. Digital twins applied to virtual classrooms in naval architecture and marine engineering
- 6.5. Development and selection of headsets, devices and immersive hardware for nautical school classrooms
- 6.6. Design of multi-user immersive learning environments for group practice in collision response and rescue
- 6.7. Prevention of simulation sickness (cybersickness) when creating immersive nautical experiences
- 6.8. Integration of movement and attention analytics from VR environments into the learner's assessment record
- 6.9. 3D modeling of scenarios of ports, channels and traffic separation schemes (TSS)
- 6.10. Cost-benefit and technical feasibility analysis of introducing XR classrooms in nautical centers
Competency assessment, remote exams and proctoring in maritime training
- 7.1. Competency-based assessment models aligned with the assessment tables of the STCW Code
- 7.2. Design of online assessment instruments: automated quizzes, checklists and digital rubrics
- 7.3. Remote exam supervision (proctoring): AI systems, facial recognition and screen monitoring
- 7.4. Ensuring academic integrity, preventing fraud and verifying the identity of the seafarer being assessed
- 7.5. Formative and summative assessment in nautical e-learning: digital portfolios and interactive training record books
- 7.6. Testing maritime English proficiency with speech recognition systems
- 7.7. Digital certificates, electronic signatures and Open Badges for recognizing micro-credentials
- 7.8. Management of practical e-assessments combining desktop simulators and video-based inspection
- 7.9. Automated, personalized feedback in theory tests on physics and nautical calculations
- 7.10. Statistical item analysis (difficulty and discrimination) in nautical question banks
E-learning for recreational boating licenses and continuing education
- 8.1. Specific features of e-learning for recreational boating licenses and yachtmaster-level qualifications
- 8.2. Design of massive open online courses (MOOC) and short courses to attract and retain boating enthusiasts
- 8.3. Learner retention strategies in non-formal and commercial nautical training
- 8.4. Integration of digital charts and electronic chart software (ECDIS) in recreational boating training
- 8.5. E-learning on radio communication rules, meteorology and rescue for novice sailors
- 8.6. Educational marketing, sales funnels and digital communication for private nautical schools
- 8.7. Continuing education for professional crews: updating specialist certificates through e-learning
- 8.8. Learning platforms for sport boating and the training of sailing and powerboat instructors
- 8.9. Adapting nautical content for use through mobile applications (mobile learning)
- 8.10. Customer satisfaction management and service quality evaluation in online nautical academies
Quality management, institutional approval and ISO/IMO standards
- 9.1. Quality management systems (QMS) in nautical schools under ISO 9001 and ISO 21001
- 9.2. Maritime administration audits of e-learning programs for the approval of STCW courses
- 9.3. Compliance with IMO guidance on the use of distance learning and e-learning for seafarers
- 9.4. Quality standards specific to online training (EFQUEL, UNE 66181 or national bodies)
- 9.5. Documentation and control of evidence of learning for inspections by maritime authorities
- 9.6. Evaluation of technological infrastructure and teacher training in the school's approval processes
- 9.7. Intellectual property and safekeeping of exams and student data on educational servers
- 9.8. Contingency and business continuity plans for online teaching in crises or emergencies
- 9.9. Preparation of procedure manuals for delivering e-learning courses in the port and naval fields
- 9.10. Continuous improvement and the PDCA cycle (plan-do-check-act) in nautical e-learning departments
Integrating project: design and implementation of an e-learning program for a nautical school
- 10.1. Selection of a specific training need at a nautical school, maritime faculty or shipowning company
- 10.2. Diagnosis of the target audience, technological constraints, connectivity level and regulatory requirements
- 10.3. Design of the curriculum, STCW competency map and modular structure of the e-learning or blended course
- 10.4. Selection and integration of the technological environment (LMS, multimedia tools, remote simulators or VR)
- 10.5. Development of the instructional script and creation of a working prototype of a learning module with SCORM/xAPI resources
- 10.6. Definition of the competency assessment system, practical tests and identity verification protocol
- 10.7. Preparation of the teacher/tutor manual and the student guide adapted to the maritime context
- 10.8. Quality management plan, compliance with IMO guidance and template for approval audits
- 10.9. Economic feasibility analysis, calculation of development and infrastructure costs and return on investment (ROI)
- 10.10. Technical report of the nautical e-learning project and oral defense before a panel of experts in education and maritime sciences
Final Project
- 11.1. Choice of topic and definition of the problem to be addressed
- 11.2. Formulation of objectives, hypotheses and scope of the work
- 11.3. Review of the state of the art and the specialist literature
- 11.4. Analysis of the applicable regulatory and technical framework
- 11.5. Design of the methodology and the work plan
- 11.6. Collection, processing and validation of data
- 11.7. Technical development and analysis of results
- 11.8. Discussion, conclusions and future lines of work
- 11.9. Writing of the final report in line with academic standards
- 11.10. Presentation and defense before the panel
Duration and format of the Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools
It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.
This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the installment plan.
Academic leadership and faculty
The Navalis teaching team: working professionals who teach and supervise the programs.
Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance
Eng. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints
Capt. Javier Abaroa (MCA)Senior Lecturer in Ship Handling, Electronic Navigation (ECDIS/Radar/ARPA) and GMDSS; STCW Compliance and Bridge Resource Management Coordinator
Dr. Pau FerrerSenior Lecturer in Naval Architecture and Simulation; Director of the Hydrodynamics and CFD Laboratory
Dr. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator
Eng. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator
Eng. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line
Eng. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration CoordinatorObjectives of the Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools
Career opportunities after the Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools
Questions about the Master's in E-learning for Nautical Schools
Yes. Every module applies e-learning methods, platforms and tools to the specific needs of nautical schools, maritime faculties and shipping company training departments.
No. It is designed both for professionals who already teach or manage training in the nautical field and for people who want to move into online teaching in this sector.
LMS platforms such as Moodle and Canvas, interoperability standards such as SCORM and xAPI, authoring tools such as Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate and H5P, videoconferencing, learning analytics, remote simulators and XR technologies.
It covers the IMO guidance, quality standards and evidence that maritime administrations typically review; the approval of a specific course is granted by the competent maritime administration, not by Navalis Institute.
Yes. One module is dedicated to e-learning for recreational boating licenses, MOOCs, mobile learning, learner retention and digital marketing for private nautical schools.
Through practical projects in each module, an integrating project in which you design and prototype a complete e-learning program for a nautical school, and a Final Project presented before a panel.
A master's degree issued by Navalis Institute as its own qualification, together with the course designs, prototypes and materials you create during the program, which you can use as a portfolio.
Online, with up-to-date content, practical projects and personalized support throughout the program.
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Admission process
No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enroll in the same session.
- Profile: aimed at nautical school instructors and teachers, heads of studies and training coordinators, maritime professionals with teaching experience, HR and training managers at shipping companies and nautical graduates with a vocation for teaching; a degree in education, psychology, media, graphic design, computer or telecommunications engineering or a related field, or demonstrable professional experience in online course design, e-learning platform management or training of trainers, is recommended.
- Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
- Technical resources: a computer with camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, office software and an up-to-date web browser.
- Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.
- 01ApplicationYour details, background and documents.
- 02Instant reviewWe check that everything is complete and in order.
- 03EnrollmentChoose full payment or instalments and reserve your place.
Admission is provisional until the committee validates the documents provided. If you do not meet the requirements, the full amount is refunded.
Ask us before you enroll
Leave your details and admissions will write to you to answer any questions. If you are already sure, you can apply and pay in the same session.