Enhancing maritime english through intercultural communication strategies: lessons from indonesian and korean seafarers

Jurnal Konseling dan Pendidikan March 19, 2026 Volume 14, Number 1 3 authors

Abstract

Effective communication is vital for ensuring safety, efficiency, and teamwork in multicultural maritime environments. However, cultural differences often create communication barriers that extend beyond language. This study aims to identify intercultural communication barriers between Indonesian and South Korean seafarers and to propose English learning strategies for seafarers, based on intercultural communication principles, to enhance linguistic competence and cultural awareness. Using a qualitative descriptive design, data were collected through in-depth interviews and participant observations involving eight Indonesian seafarers who had worked with Korean crews. Thematic analysis with NVivo 12 identified recurring patterns of communication barriers and adaptive strategies. Findings revealed five dominant barriers: language, hierarchy, communication style, work ethics, and cultural sensitivity. To address these challenges, six pedagogical strategies for Maritime English instruction are proposed, including Task-Based Language Learning, simulation and role-play, collaborative and reflective learning, technology integration, and intercultural awareness modules. This study contributes to the development of Maritime English education by embedding intercultural communication principles into English learning for seafarers, preparing them to communicate more effectively, respectfully, and professionally in diverse global maritime workplaces. By understanding these barriers, practical solutions and improved strategies can foster more effective intercultural interaction among seafarers from these two distinct cultural backgrounds.

Authors

  1. Tristanti Tristanti

    Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Pelayaran (STIP), Jakarta

  2. Jin-Chul Choi

    Korea Maritime & Ocean University (KMOU)

  3. Fauzan Atsari

    Universitas Negeri Surabaya

Keywords

Maritime EnglishIntercultural CommunicationSeafarersCommunication BarriersEnglish Learning Strategies

References

  1. Ahmmed, R. (2018). The Approaches of Teaching and Learning Maritime English: Some Factors to Consider. Bangladesh Maritime Journal, 20(7), 105–120. http://www.bsmrmu.edu.bd/journal-bmj/assets/pdf/vol-2-issue-1/bmj-02-01-08.pdf
  2. Al Shamsi, H., Almutairi, A. G., Al Mashrafi, S., & Al Kalbani, T. (2020). Implications of language barriers for healthcare: A systematic review. Oman Medical Journal, 35(2). https://doi.org/10.5001/OMJ.2020.40
  3. AlYahmady, H. H., & Al Abri, S. S. (2013). Using Nvivo for Data Analysis in Qualitative Research. International Interdisciplinary Journal of Education, 2(2), 181–186. https://doi.org/10.12816/0002914
  4. An, J., Gao, W., Liu, R., & Liu, Z. (2023). The impact of communication on the work performance of Chinese seafarers on board. Journal of Navigation, 76(1), 113–132. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0373463322000479
  5. Carol-Dekker, L. (2018). Maritime culture: A sociological perspective. International Journal of Maritime History, 30(2). https://doi.org/10.1177/0843871418765711
  6. Choi, J.-C. (2021). Life on the Sea: The Merchant Vessel as a Cultural Interaction Space. In M.-J. Jeong (Ed.), Bada Humanities (pp. 271–300). Sunin Publishing.
  7. Choi, J.-C. (2024). Exploring the Feasibility of a Crew Diversity Maturity Index (CDMI) for Enhancing Shipboard Diversity Management. Journal of Cultural Interaction Studies of Sea Port Cities, 31, 83–113.
  8. Diadori, P. (2014). Language Learning on Board: Vocational Training of Plurilingual Cruise Ship Crew. US-China Foreign Language, 12(6). https://doi.org/10.17265/1539-8080/2014.06.005
  9. Dirgayasa, I. W. (2022). Maritime English Learning Materials Based on Standard Training Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Curriculum and Intercultural Competence (IC). World Journal of English Language, 12(4), 65. https://doi.org/10.5430/wjel.v12n4p65
  10. Edwards-Jones, A. (2014). Qualitative data analysis with NVIVO. Journal of Education for Teaching, 40(2), 193–195. https://doi.org/10.1080/02607476.2013.866724
  11. Estimo, E. T., Garcia, E. V, Araya, Z. B., Flores, K. M., Estrabo, S. V. P., & Lacson, J. B. (2020). Millennial Seafarers as Today and Tomorrow’s Generation of Marine Officers: Implications and Future Directions. Journal of Shipping and Ocean Engineering, 10(2). https://doi.org/10.17265/2159-5879/2020.02.002
  12. Gabedava, G., & Hu, Y. (2025). Enhancing maritime safety through linguistic analysis: a case study of communication failures in maritime accidents. WMU Journal of Maritime Affairs, 24(3), 347–361. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13437-025-00371-y
  13. Giovanoglou, E. (2025). Teaching Maritime English in a Multicultural Crew Context: Enhancing Communication and Cultural Competence. European Journal of Alternative Education Studies, 10(2), 2–7. https://doi.org/10.46827/ejae.v10i2.6058
  14. Jackson, R. L., Drummond, D. K., & Camara, S. (2007). What is qualitative research? Qualitative Research Reports in Communication, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/17459430701617879
  15. Liddicoat, A. (2020). Teaching languages from an intercultural perspective. Rethinking Languages Education, 224–241. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315107974-13
  16. Liddicoat, A. J. (2009). Communication as culturally contexted practice: A view from intercultural communication. Australian Journal of Linguistics, 29(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/07268600802516400
  17. Lysiuchenko, O., Sydorenko, Y., Oleksiienko, L., Lysenko, T., & Hulych, M. (2021). Intercultural Communicative Competence in Development of Student’ Linguistic Skill. Linguistics and Culture Review, 5(4), 1202–1226. https://doi.org/10.21744/lingcure.v5nS4.1741
  18. Miles, M. B., & Huberman, A. M. (1994). Qualitative data analysis: An expanded sourcebook. Sage.
  19. Mohammed, A. A. M. (2020). The Impact of Culture on English Language Learning. International Journal on Studies in English Language and Literature, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.20431/2347-3134.0801003
  20. Rahaman, M. M., Hasan, K. R., & Akimoto, H. (2017). Foreign direct investment and the shipbuilding industry: A Bangladesh perspective. Procedia Engineering, 194(X), 218–223. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2017.08.138
  21. Sampson, H., & Zhao, M. (2003). Multilingual crews: Communication and the operation of ships. World Englishes, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-971X.00270
  22. Tyron, O. M. (2013). Determinants of Successful Everyday Communication of Sailors in International Crews. Journal of Educational and Social Research. https://doi.org/10.5901/jesr.2013.v3n3p209
  23. Vidhiasi, D. M. (2022). Maritime English: Teaching English for Maritime Sciences or Teaching Maritime Sciences in English? Saintara : Jurnal Ilmiah Ilmu-Ilmu Maritim, 6(1), 71–77. https://doi.org/10.52475/saintara.v6i1.152