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

To coerce the witness into providing a written statement immediately

Answer

To record the witness's personal history for background checks

Answer

To determine the witness's legal liability in the incident

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

Beginning with highly specific questions to test the witness's knowledge first

Answer

Using written questionnaires before any oral interview

Answer

Conducting all questions simultaneously in a group setting

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

The ability of a crew member to operate all navigation equipment simultaneously

Answer

A vessel's automated alert system for collision avoidance

Answer

The captain's legal awareness of applicable maritime regulations

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

Reduce the total time required for the investigation

Answer

Comply with USCG mandatory separation procedures

Answer

Ensure confidentiality of their personal medical records

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

Mechanical failure of primary navigation equipment

Answer

Insufficient cargo manifest documentation

Answer

Overfueling of the vessel prior to departure

Question 6

When a witness displays signs of trauma or emotional distress during an interview, the CMI investigator should:

Accepted Answer

Pause the interview, offer support, and resume only when the witness is ready to continue

Answer

Continue questioning to gather information before the witness's memory fades

Answer

Immediately terminate the interview and exclude the witness from the investigation

Answer

Administer a written questionnaire as a substitute for the oral interview