Effect of Computer-Based Training Materials Using Flat Diagrams and Graphics Animations on Students’ Familiarization of Marine Auxiliary Machinery

The technological advances that have occurred in recent years have inspired maritime institutions to look for more advanced and efficient teaching strategies. This quasi-experimental study aims to determine the effect of the 2D flat diagrams and 3D graphic animations as instructional materials on Marine Engineering students’ familiarization with auxiliary engine machinery. The participants were second-year students taking up BS Marine Engineering for the second semester of the school year 2021–2022. Two instruments were used. The first was a 30-item multiple-choice questionnaire focusing on Marine Refrigeration systems and Air Conditioning systems. The questions relate to the components of each system, its functions, and its operation. The second instrument was the assessments at the end of the CBTs. Mean, Standard Deviation, Paired t-test, and T-test for independent samples were used to analyze the data. The finding showed that using 2D flat diagrams and 3D graphic animations is essential for the Marine Engineering students’ familiarization with auxiliary engine machinery. Students exposed to the Refrigeration System and Air Conditioning System CBTs with 3D graphic animation have a higher level of familiarization than students exposed to the use of a 2D flat diagram. Moreover, simultaneously, students’ performance increases when they are exposed to the Refrigeration System and Air Conditioning System CBTs with 3D graphic animation. This study recommends upgrading the CBTs used by the school from 2D or flat diagrams to more sophisticated CBTs with 3D graphic animations.