DEVELOPMENT OF LEADERSHIP SKILLS VIA MEDIATION AT MARITIME ENGLISH CLASSES

Abstract

The article effectively highlights the need for leadership skills in the maritime industry, focusing on multicultural teamwork and high-stress scenarios. It links these skills directly to the requirements of Maritime English education and IMO Model Course 3.17 in particular. Mediation practices, such as active listening, empathy, problem-solving, and decision-making, are proposed to enhance leadership capabilities while addressing conflict resolution in real-world maritime contexts.
Detailed descriptions of sample activities, such as debates, teamwork exercises, and case studies, provide actionable strategies for teachers. They prepare students for real-world maritime challenges, making it highly relevant to their future careers. The research also suggests rubrics to assess leadership and mediation skills which is highly practical. These rubrics ensure structured feedback and allow students to reflect on their performance. Analysing the differences between experienced and inexperienced students highlights the importance of preparatory activities. While experienced students reported improved confidence and engagement, inexperienced students required additional groundwork in maritime vocabulary and protocols. The findings suggest that specifically designed support and preparatory activities are crucial for students with limited maritime exposure.
Incorporating mediation techniques into Maritime English classes not only enhances students’ language proficiency but also equips them with essential leadership skills, preparing them to manage multicultural crews and respond effectively to emergencies. This approach fosters emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity, ensuring students are well-prepared for leadership roles in the maritime industry.