Maritime English at CINEC: A Needs Analysis

Abstract

The goal of this study is to investigate the needs of Sri Lankan students at Colombo International Nautical and Engineering College (CINEC) in learning and using English in maritime contexts. Derived from concepts of Task-based Needs Analysis this study compiled data on academic and professional contexts along with self-assessed receptive and productive skills in English of the respondents. The methodology consisted of a questionnaire and random interviews with 115 respondents across three strata: entry level Cadets and Ratings who are the target population; Experienced (M=15 years) seafarers who construct a contrastive population. All respondents were bilingual in Sinhala/Tamil and a variety of Sri Lankan English. The data analysis of self-assessed proficiency in English language skills specifies that the Cadets (M=4.2) outranked the experienced seafarers (M=3.0) and the Ratings (M=2.8). The findings across all three strata indicate that all seafarers consider all four language skills Very important for success in their field. Identifying the need for correct grammar the experienced seafarers with an Acceptable self-estimated level of grammar (M=3.07) stated that it is Usually required. It is interesting to note that Ratings who self-assessed their level of grammar as Poor (M=2.50) assumed that correct grammar was Never (M=1.47) required in their profession. All respondents unanimously considered Speaking; and Listening to users of other Englishes of the World as Very Important. This study offers further insights into making the teaching/learning process of Maritime English at CINEC beneficial for all stakeholders.