Koalas, Kiwis and Kangaroos: The Challenges of Creating an Online Australian Cultural Dictionary for Learners of English as an Additional Language

Julia Miller,Ardian W Setiawan,Deny A Kwary

doi:10.5788/27-1-1405

Abstract

This article reports on an online cultural dictionary for learners of English as an Additional Language (EAL) in Australia. Potential users studying English for academic purposes in an Australian university pre-entry program informed each stage of the dictionary's creation. Consideration was given to the need for such a dictionary; terms to be included; information necessary for each entry (including audio and visual material); use of a limited defining vocabulary; example sentences; notes on each term's usage; and evaluation of user feedback once the dictionary had been launched online. Survey data indicate that users particularly value the dictionary's ease of use, example sentences, and specifically Australian content (including pronunciation given in an Australian accent). It is suggested that more entries be added, and that cultural dictionaries be created for other varieties of English, as well as for other languages.

Highlights

Studying in another country usually requires a good command of that country's language
The Australian cultural dictionary (ACD) was an experiment in creating a specialized dictionary to meet a perceived need
Its reception indicates that the need was largely met, in relation to the dictionary's Australian focus, its use of videos and spoken pronunciation, its example sentences and the clarity of its definitions

Summary

Introduction

Studying in another country usually requires a good command of that country's language. A speaker of English as an additional language (EAL) who wants to study in an Australian university will usually need to obtain a minimum International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6. This level of English does not prevent the student from having problems when encountering English words in daily life. Brekkie is the Australian slang word for breakfast Even on deciphering this meaning, further problems arise: what constitutes breakfast in Australia, and when do people eat this meal?

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Conclusion