Research Article

A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model

Volume: 6 Number: 1 June 30, 2026
TR EN

A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model

Abstract

Maritime education requires the transformation of theoretical knowledge into operational competence through a combination of classroom instruction, practical training, simulation-based learning, and onboard experience. However, these educational components are frequently implemented as separate learning activities, creating challenges in maintaining cognitive connections between conceptual understanding and operational application. This challenge has become increasingly significant with the emergence of digitally oriented generations that benefit from visualization, interaction, contextual learning, and repeated engagement with knowledge across multiple learning environments. This study proposes the Maritime Operational Cognitive Architecture (MOCA), a conceptual learning framework designed to strengthen cognitive continuity throughout the competence development process. Using a conceptual model development approach, the study synthesizes literature on maritime education, simulation-based learning, competency development, cognitive learning theories, instructional design, and generational transformation. Based on this synthesis, MOCA integrates theoretical instruction, visualization, experiential learning, simulation-supported learning, and operational practice into a continuous and interconnected learning architecture. The framework consists of four interconnected layers: Cognitive Structuring and Knowledge Development, Pedagogical Synchronization, Operational Competence Development, and a Multi-Layered Simulation Ecosystem. Central to the model is the principle of cognitive continuity, through which learners repeatedly encounter, visualize, apply, and reconstruct knowledge across different educational environments. Within this architecture, simulation is repositioned from a discrete training environment to a continuous pedagogical component embedded throughout the learning process, supporting conceptual understanding, visualization, knowledge reinforcement, experiential learning, and competence development. The study contributes to maritime education by introducing cognitive continuity as an organizing pedagogical principle, proposing pedagogical synchronization as a mechanism for connecting learning environments, and presenting an integrated framework that aligns maritime education with the learning characteristics of digital-age generations while strengthening the progression from theoretical learning to operational competence.

Keywords

Supporting Institution

This study was not supported by any institution or organization.

Ethical Statement

This study is a conceptual model development research based on a literature review. It does not involve human participants, animal subjects, or any form of personal data collection. Therefore, ethical committee approval was not required. The author declares that there is no conflict of interest regarding this study.

Thanks

This study was not supported by any institution or organization.

References

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  6. International Maritime Organization. (2017). International convention on standards of training, certification and watchkeeping for seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended. IMO Publishing.
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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Maritime Engineering (Other)

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

June 30, 2026

Submission Date

March 2, 2026

Acceptance Date

June 23, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 6 Number: 1

APA
Topuz, A. (2026). A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model. Journal of Marine and Engineering Technology, 6(1), 26-59. https://doi.org/10.58771/joinmet.1901132
AMA
1.Topuz A. A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model. JOINMET. 2026;6(1):26-59. doi:10.58771/joinmet.1901132
Chicago
Topuz, Alper. 2026. “A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education Within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model”. Journal of Marine and Engineering Technology 6 (1): 26-59. https://doi.org/10.58771/joinmet.1901132.
EndNote
Topuz A (June 1, 2026) A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model. Journal of Marine and Engineering Technology 6 1 26–59.
IEEE
[1]A. Topuz, “A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model”, JOINMET, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 26–59, June 2026, doi: 10.58771/joinmet.1901132.
ISNAD
Topuz, Alper. “A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education Within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model”. Journal of Marine and Engineering Technology 6/1 (June 1, 2026): 26-59. https://doi.org/10.58771/joinmet.1901132.
JAMA
1.Topuz A. A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model. JOINMET. 2026;6:26–59.
MLA
Topuz, Alper. “A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education Within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model”. Journal of Marine and Engineering Technology, vol. 6, no. 1, June 2026, pp. 26-59, doi:10.58771/joinmet.1901132.
Vancouver
1.Alper Topuz. A Cognitive–Operational Learning Architecture Proposal Addressing Emerging Needs in Maritime Education within the Context of Generational Transformation: The MOCA Model. JOINMET. 2026 Jun. 1;6(1):26-59. doi:10.58771/joinmet.1901132