Define the concrete aims and objectives of the project / network and describe the ways in which the situation set out under the previous point will be changed and the specific needs will be addressed by the project / network.

The OPTIMUS project aims at filling the existing gaps between EU ports in the simulation-based training, by developing, testing  and disseminating a common European approach on how-to-apply simulation techniques and devices for the operational training of port and logistic sector workers. This will be made through designing and testing standardized teaching methodologies and learning contents, implementing standard performance evaluation procedures, developing web-based and computer-based solutions for reaching an optimal use of simulators in operational port training activities.

Project objectives and how to address them:

• Support Vocational Training providers: by developing and testing effective tools for those who want to establish training activities using simulators and need some guidelines to help them to identify the proper equipments to be used and to apply the correct methodologies.

• Support Operational Workers in the port and logistic sector: by developing and testing, through pilot experiences, web-based and computer-based learning contents capable to guiding the trainees in their way to upgrade their skills through simulation techniques.
• Support VT and HRs development policies of companies operating in the port and logistic sector: by establishing a system of professional profiles skills evaluation, combining the results of performance evaluation procedures with specific surveys on port professions.
• Foster innovation: by establishing a system (manuals, guidelines, procedures, web and computer based learning contents, e-learning platform) aimed at favouring the adoption of simulators in the VT sector.
• Favour the project results adoption: specific dissemination and exploitation initiatives are foreseen, not only sharing information about the project results, but also trying to establish exploitation policies both with the local port communities and other European ports and organizations.
• Encourage the transition from traditional on-the-job training towards innovative and measurable methodologies, making up a system that will address the needs of:
  • Equitability: providing quality learning whatever the profile of the trainee
  • Measurability: making available methodologies for objectively measuring the trainees performance and reaction capabilities
  • Homogeneity: same level of teaching and learning quality across the time
  • Adaptability: according to technical requirements, the training process can evolve for addressing new needs
  • Transparency: allowing the monitoring of the training process and the progress of the trainees.