[OSMB-News] News Release -Test Anxiety, Computer Wary? No Problem for Boating Safety Classroom Instructors

[Massey, Ashley]

For Immediate Release                                                                     Date: Friday, March 4, 2011

Test Anxiety, Computer Wary? No Problem for Boating Safety Classroom Instructors

                For many seasoned Oregon boaters, knowing the mandatory boater education card requirement phase-in is complete and it's time to take a boating safety course brings anxiety and uncertainty about all that's involved.  Staff at the Marine Board has heard a range of statements from, "I have to take a test? I haven't taken a test in decades!" to "You can't learn anything from those online courses!"  Boaters -fear not!  The Marine Board knows the best boating safety instructors who can tailor their classroom courses to specific learning styles -on your schedule.
                "It's all about creating baseline boating safety knowledge out on the water so everyone stays safe and has a good time," says MariAnn Koloszar, Education Coordinator for the Marine Board.  The Mandatory Boater Education Program was passed by the 1999 Legislature and since 2009, all boaters (12 and older) who operate a powerboat over 10 horse power are required to take a boating safety course and carry a boater education card when out on the water.
                "Classroom courses are set in a comfortable environment and with experienced instructors who make you feel at ease.  They can also help you prepare and be less anxious come time for the 60-question test, and you only need a 70 percent to pass the test," Koloszar adds.  The Marine Board trains volunteer boating safety instructors and many of them are instructors affiliated with the U.S. Power Squadron's and Coast Guard Auxiliary.  These organizations also offer more advanced boating courses, such as piloting and marine electronics, to name a few.
                There are a variety of classroom courses available in most counties in the state.  "If boaters have family and friends that all need their boater education card, a boating safety course can even be set up for your group," says Koloszar.  "Learning is supposed to be fun, and that's what our classroom courses are...fun, with very compassionate instructors."
A complete listing of classroom courses can be found at http://www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/BoatEd/Classes.shtml.  Contact MariAnn Koloszar at 503-378-5158 for more information about a group class.
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Ashley A. Massey
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623 (office)
503-302-1049 (mobile)
Ashley.massey at state.or.us<mailto:Ashley.massey at state.or.us>

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