Saturday, May 29, 2010

SMU Update 5/29/10

Courses have been going well and we have had some small trips to supplement our class learning. One of these included our trip to Yangshan Deep Water Terminal. This was an amazing experience and I had been looking forward to it for some time. It was pretty eye opening to view the scope of this port in person (pictures really can't do it justice). When this terminal is completed, it will be able to accommodate 15 million tons annually. It has been interesting to learn how this port has affected the competition amongst other container ports in the area. The investment and control of ports in China has changed and progressed significantly over recent years. Much of this growth was brought forth by foreign investment in the port infrastructure which was allowed by the Ministry of Communications. It has been interesting to learn some of the current port issues and the problems with over-investment.

The Marine Transportation students have also been enjoying the courses and learning experience. They have had the opportunity to use the ship simulator to practice stopping and turning in various conditions. They have expressed how state of the art the simulator is offering 360 degree views via projectors. This has proven to be a great learning aid for their classes. They have also had the opportunity to visit the lake for some hands on exercises. One of their favorite classes, Maritime Law, has been great due to the experience of the law professor. Vinnie Sciamanna mentioned that the course on Navigational Instruments has covered all of the newest equipment being used like Voyage Data Recorders but also the industry basics such as magnetic compasses. They have been enjoying their experience here thus far.

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