EdTech Provides the key to Saving Lives in Response to City of Glasgow College's Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces Research Project

Stuart McDowall, Head of Innovation & STEM at City of Glasgow College

In the dynamic landscape of education technology, the City of Glasgow College has emerged as a trailblazer with its ground-breaking research project on Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces. This project is a testament to the institution's commitment to cutting-edge research and its impact on the safety and well-being of individuals in various environments.

Overcoming a Global Challenge

The Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces research project takes center stage in addressing a critical aspect of safety often overlooked – the quality of air in confined environments. With an increasing focus on creating sustainable and secure learning environments, the City of Glasgow College has taken a pioneering step towards ensuring the safety of seafarers.

Seafarers operate in unique environments that pose specific challenges to their safety. The Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) recognised online course – an integral component of the college's broader Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces initiative – addresses the pressing need for specialised training tailored to the maritime industry. The course content is meticulously curated to equip seafarers with the skills and understanding required to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with oxygen depletion on vessels.

The primary goal of the research project was to comprehensively study the oxygen levels in enclosed spaces within the college premises. This involved deploying state-of-the-art sensors and monitoring systems to gather real-time data, enabling researchers to analyse trends, identify potential risks, and implement necessary measures.

The research team at the City of Glasgow College adopted a multi-faceted approach to gather accurate and meaningful data. Advanced sensors were strategically placed in various enclosed spaces, including classrooms, laboratories, and common areas. The collected data was then subjected to rigorous analysis, considering factors such as occupancy levels, ventilation systems, and time of day.

The research project yielded several significant findings, shedding light on the importance of monitoring oxygen levels in enclosed spaces. One notable discovery was the correlation between high occupancy and increased carbon dioxide levels, indicating the potential for oxygen depletion. This information has prompted the institution to implement improved ventilation systems and establish guidelines for optimal occupancy in specific spaces.

Armed with the insights gained from the research project, the City of Glasgow College swiftly implemented targeted solutions to address the identified issues. This proactive approach includes installing advanced ventilation systems, incorporating green spaces within the college premises, and developing an awareness campaign to educate the college community about the importance of maintaining optimal oxygen levels in enclosed spaces.

Impact on Education Technology

The success of the Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces research project at the City of Glasgow College has far-reaching implications for the broader field of education technology. It underscores technology's crucial role in creating safe and conducive learning environments. Institutions worldwide can draw inspiration from this initiative, encouraging them to prioritise research and technological advancements to ensure their academic communities' well-being.

In a progressive move towards advancing maritime safety, the City of Glasgow College has collaborated with the Maritime Skills Alliance (MSA) to develop an MNTB-recognised online course. This course plays a pivotal role in upskilling seafarers, empowering them with the knowledge and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of oxygen depletion in enclosed spaces, ultimately contributing to the preservation of lives at sea.

The MNTB-recognised online course is more than an educational program; it is a proactive step towards enhancing maritime safety. By upskilling seafarers in identifying and managing oxygen depletion risks, the course aims to reduce the likelihood of incidents at sea. This not only protects the lives of seafarers but also safeguards the valuable assets and resources on board, contributing to a safer and more secure maritime environment.

The online course covers a range of topics essential for maritime professionals, including the science behind oxygen depletion, effective monitoring techniques, and emergency response protocols. By leveraging cutting-edge educational technology, the course provides an interactive and engaging learning experience, ensuring that seafarers acquire the knowledge needed to make informed decisions in real-world scenarios.

Recognising the global nature of the maritime industry, the online course is designed to be accessible to seafarers regardless of their location. This flexibility in learning is particularly crucial for professionals working on diverse vessels worldwide. Through this initiative, the City of Glasgow College is contributing to the safety of its students and extending its impact on the broader maritime community. This ground-breaking oxygen depletion research is having a global impact by saving hundreds of seafarers’ lives across the oceans.

Aligning with Industry Standards

The recognition of this online course by the MNTB underscores its alignment with industry standards and best practices. Seafarers completing the program receive a certification that not only enhances their individual professional development but also reflects the commitment of the City of Glasgow College to delivering education that meets the highest maritime industry standards.

Awarding Excellence and Innovation

The City of Glasgow College was awarded a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher & Further Education for this life-saving research into oxygen depletion in enclosed spaces onboard ships. The highly prestigious award was announced at a ceremony at St James’ Palace in London on 16 November 2023.

Part of the UK’s Honours system, Queen’s Anniversary Prizes are awarded every two years to colleges and universities judged to show world-class excellence and innovation, which impacts and benefits the institution itself and society generally in the wider world.

In conclusion, City of Glasgow College's Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces research project is a shining example of the positive impact education technology can have on safety and well-being. By addressing a critical aspect of environmental health within educational institutions, the project sets a precedent for the integration of cutting-edge technology to enhance the overall learning experience. As we move forward, it is projects like these that will continue to shape the future of education technology, fostering environments that prioritise the health and safety of all.

The MNTB-recognised online course developed in conjunction with the City of Glasgow College's Oxygen Depletion in Enclosed Spaces research project is a landmark initiative in the realm of maritime education technology. By providing seafarers with the tools to navigate the unique challenges posed by oxygen depletion, the course not only upskill professionals but also contributes significantly to the overarching goal of saving lives at sea. This innovative approach reflects the institution's dedication to excellence, safety, and the continuous advancement of education within the maritime sector.

 

Educational Technology