Introduction

The Maritime English Journal is a new, academic refereed publication which aims at providing on-line access to all those involved in the research, teaching and learning of methodologies and approaches in the teaching and study of Maritime English, as well as the study of this unique type of English.

International shipping is growing rapidly, with multi-cultural crews speaking English as an International Language through the medium of Maritime English, and thus effective communication onboard and between ship and shore is essential. A Secondary English is spoken when crews leave the ship.

Maritime English is a career tool, and has led to a growing academic area of study. National authorities and training institutions have found it necessary to develop effective training strategies which meet these new demands. Korea, Japan, China and more recently, The Philippines, are growing as the leading builders of ships and suppliers of international crews. All of these countries are EFL or ESL countries.

Our international journal has the goal of promoting second language acquisition research with the emphasis on Maritime ESP. The study of SLA (within this field) is now embracing new ideas, which are free of orthodoxy and challenge existing theories.

Topics we will be covering, though not limited to this list include:-

**A definition of Maritime English
**Basic SLA for ME
**International standards for ME
**The establishment of TOMEP -Test of Maritime English Proficiency standard
**Unique ME vocabulary
**Teaching of ME
** Culture and ME (the teaching and learning)

We invite articles that are research-based and also address how SLA (EFL) is taught in various contexts. Additionally, new literature will be reviewed to keep our audience informed of advances in the field.

We invite you to contribute to The Maritime English Journal, access the site regularly and provide feedback on what you read.

Senior Associate Editor
4th May 2008.