• Newcomers to Australia often struggle with informal Australian English — slang, idioms, and conversational tone that aren’t taught in traditional ESL programs. This gap can lead to social isolation, reduced confidence, and workplace misunderstandings.

• I designed Aussie Slang Learning Tool, a self-paced that helps migrants and international students practice real Australian conversations.

• The tool focuses on scenario-based learning, allowing learners to rehearse everyday interactions like ordering coffee, meeting neighbours, or workplace small talk.

• Formal English education rarely teaches colloquial Australian speech

• Slang acquisition takes years without guided exposure

• Informal conversation is essential for social integration

• Learners fear embarrassment when speaking with locals

As a result, newcomers often understand textbook English but struggle with real-life Aussie conversations.

This creates a gap between functional English proficiency and social fluency.

19–28 years old, university student, high academic English but low exposure to Aussie slang.

Needs

• Understand informal Aussie in social and academic settings

• Decode slang, humour, idioms

• Build conversational confidence

Motivations

• Social belonging

• Academic participation

• Employment readiness

Constraints

• Cognitive overload during transition

• Fear of embarrassment

• Limited exposure outside campus bubble

25–45 years old, employed or job-seeking, functional English but struggles with workplace colloquial communication.

Needs

• Workplace idioms and informal communication

• Cultural cues in professional conversations

• Accent comprehension

Motivations

• Career progression

• Workplace inclusion

• Networking

Constraints

• Time limitations

• Stress of settlement

• Mixed exposure to native speakers

1. Context matters more than memorization
Learners acquire slang faster when it’s embedded in realistic scenarios.

2. Informal exposure accelerates integration
Daily conversational practice improves comprehension more than formal instruction alone.

3. Psychological safety is critical
Learners avoid speaking when they fear embarrassment.

4. Micro-practice increases retention
Short, repeatable interactions support long-term learning.

Design a self-paced learning tool that:

• Builds confidence in real conversations

• Teaches Aussie slang in context

• Provides immediate feedback

• Supports independent learners

• Feels safe and non-judgmental

Success meant learners could practice without fear and transfer skills to real-life situations.

Hybrid approach HCD+ID