"NETWORK OPERATOR" COMPUTER SIMULATOR AS A MEANS to form PROFESSIONAL competences OF ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTED NETWORK OPERATORS
PURPOSE. Today, Russian Universities conduct professional training on the basis of the competence approach, which includes the acquisition of both knowledge and professional skills that synthesize the obtained knowledge. Implementation of competence-based approach is impossible without the active forms of training the most effective of which include computer simulators. METHODS. The Department of Automated Electrical Power Systems of Novosibirsk State Technical University in cooperation with the specialists of the power grid company developed a specialized “Network operator” computer simulator intended to be used in both real professional and educational activities. Such simulator is able to perform emergency response, performance training as well as preparation on operational switching in high voltage electrical networks. RESULTS. The simulator models normal and emergency operation modes of a network, operation of relay protection means and automation; visualizes the processes in the interfaces of operational control, implements customized and random accidents. The main advantage of the simulator is a knowledge base and an expert system implemented on its base which provide an advising training mode and a certification mode of operator's actions. Being dynamic, the simulator allows to take into account interaction of the operating personnel. CONCLUSIONS. Simulator characteristics described above provide the formation of professional competences of power distribution network operators.