English language training for Navy enlisted personnel who speak English as a second language

Abstract

Communication problems exist for English as a second language (ESL) personnel in Recruit Training Commands and Navy work places. Good English language programs could improve the communication problems in the training environment and in the work place by providing language instruction right after enlistment. In this study, the adequacy of the existing ESL training programs in the Navy and other ESL training programs currently used in the military is determined. The ESL training programs offered to personnel in civilian industry are also evaluated with respect to their potential usefulness for Navy training. The existing ESL training programs in the military are not sufficient in providing adequate remedial English language training for ESL recruits. There is a need for cultural indoctrination and colloquial English instruction as part of the entry-level training in Recruit Training Commands. Furthermore, different multi-cultural ESL courses should be added to the existing ESL curricula in order for ESL personnel to integrate successfully in the military.