Is there a briefing I can use for new seafarers?

Dear Spot On Learning participant

To check and where necessary to improve the standard of English spoken on board, you will follow our online learning program at Spot On Learning (SOL). Spot On Learning is a provider of online testing and English Language Programs. In this briefing, you can find an overview of what to expect in the following months.

You will be contacted by Spot On Learning to do a so-called 'program introduction' in which the program will be further explained. Please monitor your email; we sent the login details via mail.
A required English level will be set based on your rank.
To check your English level, you will do two online Level Tests. The CEFR Level Test is a 20-minute ZOOM interview with an English speaking teacher. Your conversation will be recorded, and you will receive the score within three working days afterward. This test will provide you the CEFR Level Test score. In addition we ask you to take an online grammar & vocabulary test (optional with a reading & writing test)
After the Level Test, you will work on General English courses.

General English course

You will be offered online modules to improve your English during your home-leave, as you won’t have access on board. The online modules are interactive, and you can complete the videos in your online class at home at a time best suited for you.

You can work take these courses via the website: EnglishCentral.com, or in the EnglishCentral app (available for Android and Apple).

Every module has a duration of 8 weeks in which you will work towards an exam to see how much you have improved. In these eight weeks, it is crucial to watch 12-15 videos per week and not to watch all videos in one go.

The Spot On Learning team will monitor your progress and send you tips & tricks about your progress.

How much time do I need to study weekly to improve my English?

You will get access to three courses matching your level. The goal is to complete these courses within two months. The courses consist of a total of 90 videos. To meet the finish line within eight weeks, you will have to watch 12-15 videos per week. It will take you up to 3 hours per week to finish the program on time.

Your progress will be monitored and translated into experience points (XP). When you have completed the courses and gained 20.000XP, there will be a so-called 'Level Up Test' to see if progress has been made. To meet your XP goal, you will have to select ten lines and ten words per video.

What do you need to study?

To be able to follow the online lessons it will be necessary your computer is fitted with speakers and a microphone, or you use a headset instead.

What happens when I join the vessel?

For the period you are on leave, we will keep your account active. Once you go on board, your account will be paused and will be activated when you return from the ship.

Who can I contact for support?

You can check our Frequently Asked Questions we answer a lot of question there or contact our support desk about any question you have about the program or when experiencing technical difficulties.

Email: support@spotonlearning.nl
Live chat: if someone is available, use the green 'chat' button on my.spotonlearning.eu
Whatsapp: +31 6 40 68 73 90

We are thanking you for your participation and good luck!