Vocabulary Learning Strategies of An EFL Cruise Ship Worker

Abstract

This research focuses on investigating the vocabulary learning strategies employed by an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) cruise ship worker. The study aims to shed light on the specific strategies utilized by the worker in acquiring and expanding their vocabulary knowledge within ESP and the unique context of the cruise ship industry. The participant was an Indonesian cruise ship worker who has worked for over one year and has frequent contact with foreigners by using English as the medium of communication. This is qualitative research which employs interviews as the data collection technique to gather insights into the worker's vocabulary learning practices. The collected data were then analyzed by using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns related to vocabulary learning strategies. The instrument used for the study in thematic analysis that being used is Determination Strategies (DOT), Social Strategies (SOC), Memory Strategies (MEM) Cognitive Strategies (COG), and Metacognitive Strategies (MET). The findings of the study provide valuable insights into the vocabulary learning strategies employed by the EFL cruise ship worker. The research highlights the worker's use of secondary sources, engagement in authentic conversations with colleagues and guests, use of keyword, verbal repetition, and testing with word tests. This study found that the most used strategy was social strategies and the least used was metacognitive strategies. The study also found an emergent finding where the participant learned the use of vocabulary by learning from mistakes made from others. These strategies contribute to the worker's effective vocabulary acquisition and usage in the cruise ship setting. The implications of this research extend to both the field of EFL language learning and the cruise ship industry. By understanding the vocabulary learning strategies of cruise ship workers, educators and language professionals can design targeted language learning programs and resources tailored to the specific needs of this profession. Furthermore, cruise ship companies can implement training programs that foster effective vocabulary learning strategies among their employees, leading to enhanced communication, customer service, and overall job performance. Overall, this research offers valuable insights into the vocabulary learning strategies employed by an EFL cruise ship worker, providing a foundation for further exploration and application in language learning contexts within the cruise ship industry.