Marlins book / -marlins-study pack 1 / 004

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FOREWOR

Foreword

Current legislation emphasises the importance of English language proficiency in relation to safety at sea. Seafarers must now demonstrate a knowledge of English adequate for professional and safety purposes. Although many seafarers bring some understanding of maritime English to the workplace, their language skills may not be sufficient for communicating instructions and commands. This deficiency is most apparent among multi-national crews in emergency situations when language accuracy is critical.

When inability to communicate in a common language affects performance, pro-active language training becomes a necessity. Language training for seafarers has traditionally focused on technical vocabulary and navigational phraseology while practice in the basic communication skills necessary for fluency and confidence is often neglected. Training in these basic language skills enables the seafarer to activate and build upon his existing knowledge.

The Marlins Study Pack has been produced in response to the need for improved standards of communication at sea. This self-study course is the result of four years of research and teaching involving hundreds of seafarers of all ranks from around the world. It is designed to meet the learning needs of seafarers and to help companies implement effective English language training policies.

•The Marlins Study Pack focuses on general English within a familiar maritime context.

•The Marlins Study Pack is an accessible tool which allows the seafarer to take control of his own learning through

independent study.

•The Marlins Study Pack provides companies with the means to comply with legislative requirements by offering crews a proven system of English language training.

Marlins English for Seafarers 1