CMI CMI Witness Interview Techniques & Human Factors

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of conducting a cognitive interview with a witness to a marine casualty?

Accepted Answer

To enhance the witness's recall of events through memory reinstatement techniques

Answer

Cognitive interviews use mental reinstatement of context and open-ended questioning to maximize the accuracy and completeness of witness recall.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the 'funnel technique' used during witness interviews in marine investigations?

Accepted Answer

Starting with broad open-ended questions and progressively narrowing to specific details

Answer

The funnel technique starts with open narrative questions to allow free recall, then narrows to specific follow-up questions without leading the witness.

Question 3

In the context of human factors investigation, 'situational awareness' refers to:

Accepted Answer

A mariner's perception of the environment, understanding of the current situation, and projection of future status

Answer

Situational awareness, as defined by Mica Endsley, encompasses perception, comprehension, and projection of environmental elements affecting operations.

Question 4

A CMI investigator should separate witnesses before interviewing them primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Prevent witnesses from aligning or contaminating each other's accounts

Answer

Separating witnesses prevents conformity bias and memory contamination, preserving the independence and reliability of each account.

Question 5

Which human factor is most commonly identified as a contributing cause in marine casualty investigations?

Accepted Answer

Fatigue and impaired alertness due to inadequate rest

Answer

Fatigue consistently ranks as a top human factor in marine casualties, impairing decision-making, reaction time, and situational awareness.

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

CMI CMI Witness Interview Techniques & Human Factors