Tokotoko is a Māori language learning platform that reimagines how people engage with Te Reo Māori through interactive, story-driven design. The project combines UX research, linguistic pedagogy, and data-driven feedback systems to create an app that prioritises cultural context, learner agency, and visual clarity. I collaborated on the concept design, UX structure, and visual communication system.
The name Tokotoko refers to the carved orator's staff—a symbol of speaking authority—aligning with the project's aim to empower learners to speak confidently and respectfully. Tokotoko moves beyond conventional flashcard or gamified models by embedding Te Reo within cultural narratives, idiomatic expressions, and everyday conversational settings. Each learning sequence is anchored by short, situational dialogues that integrate audio, transcription, and contextual explanations.
The interface emphasises clarity and immersion. Lessons appear as scrollable "story threads" combining text, audio, and imagery, with gesture-based interactions to reveal translations or grammar notes. A minimal palette and typographic hierarchy support accessibility in both light and dark modes. The app also features a kōrero view, where learners can record and compare their speech with native pronunciation.
Discovery. Cultural probe kit, diaries, and photo prompts to capture daily language touchpoints. UX surveys and interviews to prioritise barriers and motivators.
Prototype. Interactive transcript player, vocabulary capture, and spaced repetition. Early playlists and difficulty tagging. Low-latency UI tests on mobile.
Evaluate. Usability tests on comprehension, retention, and affect. Compare playlist vs. algorithmic feed. Measure time-on-task and return rate.
Iterate. Refine familiarity model, add social features, and extend content taxonomy for contexts, registers, and domains.
A lightweight web stack optimised for media and annotation. Focus on transparent data models and exportability.
Dashboards focus on comprehension and exposure rather than vanity scores.
Tokotoko serves as both a pedagogical and cultural tool, encouraging engagement with Māori language revitalisation through design. The platform is being developed in collaboration with educators and linguists to ensure linguistic accuracy and cultural integrity, with future plans to expand into an open-source learning framework for indigenous languages.
