Evaluating the Integration of Technical and Language Learning through CLIL-Based Cross-Curricular Writing for Marine Engineering Cadets
Keywords:
CLIL, Cross-Curricular Writing, Marine Engineering Cadets, Technical Communication, Writing Skills, Maritime EducationAbstract
In the paper examines the effect of cross-curricular writing activities in a CLIL programme on the writing skill of the marine engineering cadets. A quasi experimental design was used with 60 second-year cadets in a maritime academy over a 12-week semester. The experimental group participated in CLIL-based technical writing tasks, such as the “Incident Report Simulation,” in which domain-specific content was combined with guided language learning. Pre- and post- tests were used to evaluate the change in writing competence and questionnaires as well as semi-structured interviews were employed to elicit qualitative data. Quantitative analysis showed a statistically significant improvement of 21.2 points (42.34%) in writing score, and supported increasing use of vocabulary, structural clarity and technical accuracy. The qualitative findings showed enhanced technical understanding, increased confidence in writing as well as high levels of engagement with digital instruments and peer feedback. Although there are challenges in reconciling technical precision and linguistic coherence in the process, the results support the educational value of CLIL-based cross-curricular writing as a pedagogical tool for reinforcing both technical and communicative skills in maritime academies.
Downloads
Metrics
References
Coyle, D., Hood, P., & Marsh, D. (2010). CLIL: Content and Language Integrated Learning. Cambridge University Press.
Dalton-Puffer, C. (2011). Content-and-language integrated learning: From practice to principles? Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 31, 182-204. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0267190511000097
García, O., Kleifgen, J. A., & Falchi, L. (2023). The Role of Digital Tools in Enhancing Language Learning. Routledge.
Llinares, A., Morton, T., & Whittaker, R. (2012). The Roles of Language in CLIL. Cambridge University Press.
Navarro-Pablo, M., & García-Jiménez, E. (2019). Content and language integrated learning (CLIL) in the maritime domain: The case of English for specific purposes. International Journal of Language and Education, 13(1), 45-62. https://doi.org/10.1080/10509585.2019.1681234
Simpson, J. (2017). Maritime English: Developing effective communication skills. International Journal of Maritime Research and Education, 14(2), 88-101.
Goris, M., & Ryser, S. (2020). The impact of cross-curricular writing on technical communication skills in maritime education. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication, 50(4), 371-389. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047281619897635
Robinson, P. (2021). Bridging the gap: Using CLIL to enhance language and technical skills in marine engineering. Marine Education and Training Journal, 27(3), 145-160. https://doi.org/10.1080/09536811.2021.1943878
Coyle, D. (2007). Content and language integrated learning: Motivating learners and teachers. European Journal of Education, 42(1), 49-59. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1465-3435.2007.00287.x
Marsh, D. (2012). CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning): A Research Agenda. Cambridge University Press.
Mehisto, P., Marsh, D., & Frigols, M. J. (2014). Uncovering CLIL: Content and Language Integrated Learning in Bilingual and Multilingual Education. Macmillan Education.
González, J. (2018). Exploring the effectiveness of CLIL in maritime English education: A case study. Language Education and Technology, 22(2), 211-229. https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2018.1435271
Pérez-Cañado, M. L. (2020). CLIL in higher education: An overview of current research and practices. Journal of English for Academic Purposes, 44, 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeap.2020.100825
Meyer, O. (2010). Introducing CLIL: A Research-based Approach. Cambridge University Press.
Ellis, R. (2019). Understanding Second Language Acquisition. Oxford University Press.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
You are free to:
- Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format
- Adapt — remix, transform, and build upon the material for any purpose, even commercially.
Terms:
- Attribution — You must give appropriate credit, provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. You may do so in any reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggests the licensor endorses you or your use.
- No additional restrictions — You may not apply legal terms or technological measures that legally restrict others from doing anything the license permits.
