Difficulties Experienced by Maritime Students During Shipboard Training: Basis for an Intervention Program
Abstract
This study examined the difficulties experienced by maritime students of EXACT Colleges of Asia, Inc. during shipboard training as a basis for developing an intervention program to strengthen cadet readiness, resilience, well-being, and training experiences. Anchored on Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory and an Input-Process-Output model, the study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational design involving 100 maritime cadets who had completed shipboard training under the Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering programs. Data were collected using a researcher-made 60-item questionnaire with excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.956) and analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, Pearson r, and standard deviation. Findings showed relatively low overall difficulty (2.43), although personal and psychological challenges (2.60) and institutional and professional challenges (2.50) remained evident. Technical factors were the strongest contributors to training difficulties (2.82), particularly unclear technical instructions, difficulty applying theoretical knowledge, and limited prior equipment exposure. No significant relationships were found between respondents’ demographic and training profiles and the difficulties encountered (p > 0.05). Despite these challenges, cadets demonstrated strong coping capacity (3.41) and perceived strong institutional support (3.42). The study proposed the SEA-READY intervention program, comprising TECH READY, MIND READY, COMM READY, and REALITY READY, and recommended strengthened technical preparation, psychological readiness, communication, competency-aligned training, industry collaboration, and continuous institutional support. The study aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by supporting improved maritime education and workforce preparedness. Its sustainability impact centers on strengthening educational and institutional systems, psychosocial well-being, and the long-term preparation of competent maritime professionals.