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The current quantitative study aims to understand/investigate the perception of Macao society towards couple therapy and therapists and the perception of Macao's professionals working with couples about couple therapy services in Macao. Given the small sample of this study of professionals who work as therapists for couples in Macao, this indicates that there is not a large number of them. The result of the research indicates also a general positive attitude of professionals towards clients but also indicates that couple therapy needs improvement. The sample used to measure the society shows that the society manifested moderate positive attitudes toward couple therapy. However, the findings may reveal that there are still weak points of societal knowledge and contact for couples therapy services. The outcome manifested that Macao has limited literature about Family and Couple Therapy which may be relevant to understand the poor knowledge of the society related to this field. The current study suggests the elaboration of future studies about Couple Therapy services and about the concept of couple therapy to promote therapeutic service to couples and academic researchers that promote governmental support to offer professionals validation.

The aim of this study is to analyze the crisis management of Macao SAR and the extent to which the community were engaged in the COVID-19 pandemic prevention and control. There are some issues found that when the pandemic breaks out and after outbreaks, such as poor information communication, low efficiency of prevention and control work, unsatisfactory compliance of the public, lack of pandemic prevention materials which affect the government's control of the pandemic in the past study. In Macao SAR, densely residential areas and dense population are the main considerations for pandemic prevention and control. Communities, as the main first line of defense for pandemic prevention and control, are also the bridge for communication between the government and the residents. The community have the advantages of timely and accurate information collection and accurate implementation of prevention and control measures. In this study found that the involvement of the Macao community may not be the key to the success of epidemic prevention in Macao. Community participation also faces many challenges, such as uneven distribution of facilities and services, lack of medical expertise of community workers, shortage of manpower and other shortcomings of community participation. It is possible that the Macao community is not playing a key role in the COVID-19 pandemic prevention and control. Given this scenario, the government needs to give full play to social forces and the role of the community in pandemic prevention and control. Currently, there are few studies on community involvement in COVID-19 prevention and control. Through COVID-19, this study puts forward some ideas that the government needs to pay attention to community development and improve citizens' community awareness to promote the Macao community. Improving the Macao community is conducive to Macao in the future crisis and community cooperation

Virtual reality (VR), a computer-generated 3D environment, allows one to navigate and possibly interact, resulting in real-time simulation of one or more of the user’s five senses (M. Gutierrez et al., 2008; Vince, 2004). Despite its history through past decades, this technology has quickly developed recently. Virtual tours and spaces have been widely used in the education, arts, and rehabilitation industries. According to research, it has significant effects on mindfulness (improving mood), cognitive development (better learning ability), and embodiment (relieving pain and medical conditions). This thesis aims to identify the conditions for Macao's single-user experience to achieve mindfulness in virtual reality through immersion and interactivity. With their various definitions, this research uses the two spectrums on the levels of immersion and interactivity, conducts four experiment settings with Macao residents, and collects qualitative questionnaires and quantitative survey data. The four settings differ as they tackle different aspects: spiritual memory, historical memory, aesthetic appreciation, and meditation through concept. The analysed results were then evaluated to seek better conditions for the local community to achieve mindfulness by immersing themselves in virtual reality

This study employs qualitative research methods, conducting semi-structured interviews with ten kindergarten teachers in Macao. The study further analyses and summarises the participants' perceptions of music teaching, music curriculum design, teaching practices, practical challenges, and the support needed to develop music education. The findings of the study are as follows: 1. The study explores kindergarten teachers' perceptions and attitudes towards music teaching, revealing that all participants recognise the importance of fundamental music knowledge and skills, although there is a noticeable variation in the music proficiency level among teachers. A solid foundation in music is essential for delivering high-quality music instruction. Further to professional skills, teachers' attitudes towards music teaching also vary. While most participants are passionate about music education, some hold neutral or conservative views, and a few lack much interest. Their involvement in teaching is primarily driven by professional duties and school curriculum requirements, with some missing intrinsic motivation or enthusiasm for teaching music. Additionally, some teachers' limited interest in music teaching may be related to a lack of musical talent or confidence. 2. This study analyses the current state of music curriculum teaching in kindergartens. Most music instruction within kindergartens in Macao aligns with the guidelines provided by the Education and Youth Development Bureau, with two music classes arranged per week, each session lasting about 30 minutes. While thematic teaching is a significant model in kindergarten music curricula, over-reliance on it should be avoided. The study suggests that teachers should balance thematic teaching with systematically cultivating fundamental music knowledge and skills. Regarding staffing, music classes are typically co-taught by two classroom teachers, with one required to have instrumental skills. This arrangement supports more professional music instruction, enriches teaching content, and enhances children's musical experiences. However, challenges remain due to heavy teacher workloads and insufficient resources and facilities. Despite these limitations, kindergarten teachers in Macao continue to implement personalised teaching approaches and adopt diverse, innovative, and individualised teaching methods in their music curricula. The interviewed teachers demonstrated a broad and innovative approach to curriculum design and practice, reflecting their deep understanding and professional competence in early childhood music education. 3. Kindergarten teachers in Macao face various challenges in teaching music curricula, most due to the comprehensive and objective assessment of children's musical abilities. The study finds that teachers typically struggle to evaluate musical concepts, rhythm, creativity, interest, and engagement. Additionally, pronunciation accuracy and developmental differences among children are significant factors in the assessment process. 4. This study aims to delve into the challenges and needs faced by kindergarten teachers in music curriculum practice, particularly in music education. The findings indicate that the development of music education in kindergartens is influenced by multiple factors, with the level of importance and support given to music education by schools being a critical issue. Specifically, some participants noted that schools place limited emphasis on music education, prioritising core subjects such as language and English, while others reported that schools provide ample recognition and support for music education. This disparity leads to an imbalance in music teaching resources and environments, affecting teachers' ability to conduct music teaching activities effectively. While some schools place a high value on music education, overemphasising certain aspects of training may lead to an imbalanced development of music education. Furthermore, the study finds that kindergarten teachers have varying levels of musical background and teaching experience. Despite having a basic understanding of music, some teachers fall short in teaching methods and strategies, while others lack systematic music knowledge and skills. These differences in capability limit the quality of music instruction and hinder the comprehensive development of children's musical literacy. Finally, the researcher provides relevant recommendations based on these conclusions to guide future research. 本研究採用質性研究法,通過半結構訪談10位澳門幼稚園教師,並進一步加以分析與歸納探討了受訪者對音樂教學的認知、音樂課程設計、教學實況、實踐困境以及發展支持等方面的情況。研究結論如下： 1. 探討幼稚園教師對音樂教學的認知和態度,研究發現,所有受訪教師均認識到音樂基礎知識和技能的重要性,但教師之間的音樂技能水準存在一定差異。紮實的音樂基礎是開展高品質音樂教學的前提。除了專業技能外,教師對音樂教學的態度也有所不同,大部分受訪者對音樂教學充滿熱忱,但也有部分教師持中立或保守的態度,少數教師則缺乏興趣。他們參與教學主要是出於職責和學校課程安排,可能缺乏內在動力和熱情。此外,個別教師對音樂教學的興趣不足,這可能與其音樂天分不夠或自信心不足有關。 2. 本研究分析了幼稚園音樂課程的教學現狀。大多數澳門幼稚園的音樂教學安排符合教青局的指引,每週安排兩次音樂課,每節課時長約為30分鐘。雖然主題教學是幼稚園音樂課程的重要模式之一,但不宜過度依賴。研究指出,教師在進行主題教學的同時,應重視系統性培育音樂基礎知識和技能,並在兩者之間找出平衡。在教師配置方面,音樂課通常由兩位班主任共同執導,其中一位教師需具備樂器演奏能力,這樣的安排有助於提供更專業的音樂指導,豐富教學內容,並提升幼兒的音樂體驗。然而,問題在於教師的工作負擔較重,且在師資力量和教學設施等方面仍有不足。儘管面對環境的限制,澳門幼稚園教師仍靈活地開展自己的個性化教學,並在音樂課程中採用了多樣化、創新性和個性化的教學方法。受訪的幼稚園教師展現出了多元化、創新性的教學設計理念和實踐,充分體現了他們對幼兒音樂教育的深刻理解和專業素養。 3. 澳門的幼稚園教師在進行音樂課程教學時面臨多種挑戰,這些挑戰主要集中在如何全面且客觀地評估幼兒音樂能力。研究發現,教師們普遍在音樂概念、節奏感、創造力、興趣和參與度的評估方面遇到困難。此外,發音準確性和幼兒之間的發展差異也成為評估過程中的重要考慮因素。 4. 本研究旨在深入探討幼稚園教師在音樂課程實踐中面臨的挑戰與需求,尤其是在音樂教育方面。研究結果顯示,幼稚園的音樂教育發展受到多種因素的影響,其中學校對音樂教育的重視程度和支持力度的差異是關鍵問題之一。具體而言,有部分受訪者指出,學校對音樂教育的重視程度有限,更側重於語文、英語等主學科的教學；而另一些受訪者則表示,學校對音樂教育給予了充分的認可和支持。這種差異性導致了音樂教學資源和環境的不平衡,影響了教師開展音樂教學活動的能力和效果。 儘管一些學校非常重視音樂教育,但如果過度強調某一方面的培養,可能會導致音樂教育的發展失衡。此外,研究還發現,幼稚園教師的音樂專業背景和教學經驗存在較大差異,有些教師雖然具備音樂基礎,但教學方法和策略上有所欠佳,另一些教師缺乏系統的音樂知識和技能。這種能力上的差異不僅限制了音樂教學的品質,還阻礙了幼兒音樂素養的全面發展。最後,研究者依據上述結論據出相關建議,以提供給後續研究者為參考。

The purpose of this study was to explore the current situation and the correlations between emotional intelligence, perceived stress and teaching efficacy of kindergarten teachers in Macao. The research method was questionnaire survey that used “The relationship between emotional intelligence, perceived stress and teaching efficacy of kindergarten teachers in Macao.” as a data collection tool, while the research object were the kindergarten teachers in public and private schools in Macao. A total of 269 valid questionnaires are recovered, the valid return rate was 100%. Statistical analysis was performed after the questionnaires were collected, the research results are summarized as follows: 1. The teachers’ emotional intelligence was at a high intermediate level. The significant differences of emotional intelligence were found among teachers with varying background variables such as marital status, teaching experience and inclusive education experience. 2. The teachers’ perceived stress was at a low intermediate level. The significant differences of perceived stress was found among teachers with varying background variables such as teaching experience. 3. The teachers’ teaching efficacy was at a high intermediate level. The significant differences of teaching efficacy were found among teachers with varying background variables such as marital status, teaching experience and inclusive education experience. 4. There was significant negative correlation between teachers’ emotional intelligence and perceived stress. 5. There was significant positive correlation between teachers’ emotional intelligence and teaching efficacy. 6. There was significant negative correlation between teachers’ perceived stress and teaching efficacy. 7. The teachers’ emotional intelligence and perceived stress could predict teaching efficacy. 本研究旨在探討澳門幼稚園教師情緒智力、壓力知覺與教學效能關係之現況及相關情形。研究方法是以問卷調查方式進行，以本澳公立及私立學校的幼稚園教師作研究對象。是次回收有效問卷為269份，問卷回收率達100%，問卷回收後進行統計分析。本研究結果顯示如下： 一、本澳幼稚園教師情緒智力達到中高程度，整體情緒智力因婚姻狀況、教學年資及融合教育經驗的不同而有顯著差異； 二、本澳幼稚園教師壓力知覺呈現中下程度，整體壓力知覺因教學年資的不同而有顯著差異。 三、本澳幼稚園教師教學效能達到中高程度，整體教學效能因婚姻狀況及融合教育經驗的不同而有顯著差異； 四、情緒智力與壓力知覺呈現負相關； 五、情緒智力與教學效能呈現正相關； 六、壓力知覺與教學效能呈現負相關。 七、情緒智力、壓力知覺對整體教學效能具有顯著預測力。 本研究依據上述研究之結果提出建議給予政府、學校行政機關、幼稚園教師及未來研究者作參考。

Nowadays, inclusive education has become increasingly popular in various places. And it becomes more and more common for students with special education needs to be placed in general education environments. However, students with special education needs often have problems getting along with their classmates because of their own physical and mental disabilities and behavioral traits. In schools, social interaction has always been a major issue for students with autism spectrum disorder to integrate into the group. Due to their physical limitations or internal psychological differences, they often encounter difficulties in interacting with classmates. The researcher of this study is a primary school resource teacher in an integrated school. During the teaching process, she found that students with autism spectrum disorder in regular classes have some difficulties in adapting, especially in getting along with others . Therefore, the researcher hopes to improve their social behavior through Mind-Reading training, so that they can develop well in interacting and socializing with others. This study intends to explore the effect of Mind-Reading training on improving the mind reading ability and social interaction ability of five autistic spectrum disorder students in primary school, and conduct research and discussion on their ability to understand others and social interaction . Comparison and data analysis were conducted through pre-test, six-session of Mind-Reading training course, Mind-Reading learning record form filled in by the researcher, and post-test. The pre-test and post-test tools include: "Vinlan Adaptive Behavior Scale 3 (Chinese version) - Children's Version" filled out by the parents of the research participants, interviews with the head teachers of the research participants, and a theory of mind test completed by the research participants (ToMTB test). The study concluded as follows: 1.Children with autism spectrum disorder can improve the ability to understand others after receiving Mind-Reading training. 2.Children with autism spectrum disorder can show the improvement in social interactions after receiving Mind-Reading training. In this study, the researcher hopes to improve autistic students' ability to understand other people 's thoughts and improve their social interaction through Mind-Reading training, so that autistic spectrum disorder students can integrate into ordinary classes and get along with their classmates. They try to use Mind-Reading training to explore whether this method is effective. And the conclusion confirms that Mind-Reading training can improve autistic spectrum disorder students' abilities to understand others , improve their social interactions , and promote social relationships with their classmates. It is recommended that in future research on Mind-Reading training in Macao, the teaching content should be combined with social interaction skills and life experience. In addition, we will increase the understanding of peer perceptions, observations of class entry or recess time, and extend the follow-up time to make the research more complete. 現今，融合教育在各地已漸趨普及化，特殊教育需要學生安置於普通教育環境是越來越常見的現象。然而，特殊教育需要學生因自身的身心障礙及行為特質，導致他們與同儕相處時經常出現問題。在學校，社交互動一直是自閉症譜系障礙學生融入群體的一大重點議題，他們因自身的生理限制或心理內在的差異，導致其在與同儕互動時常遇到困難。本研究的研究者為融合學校的小學資源教師，在教學的過程裏，發現就讀於普通班的自閉症譜系障礙學生在適應上出現了一些困難，特別是與人相處方面，因此，研究者希望能透過心智解讀訓練來改善他們的社交行為，讓他們能在與他人互動和社交方面獲得良好的發展。 本研究擬探討心智解讀訓練對提升五位低小自閉症譜系障礙學生的心智解讀能力與社交互動能力的效果，對他們理解他人的能力及社交互動方面進行研究和討論，通過前測、六節的心智解讀訓練課程、研究者填寫的心智解讀學習記錄表、後測來進行比較及資料分析。前測及後測工具包括：由研究參與者之家長填寫的「文蘭適應行為量表第3(中文版)-兒童版」、研究參與者之班主任訪談，以及研究參與者完成的心智理論測驗(ToMTB測驗)。 研究得出的結論如下： 1.自閉症譜系障礙兒童在接受心智解讀訓練後理解他人的能力有所提升。 2.自閉症譜系障礙兒童在接受心智解讀訓練後在社交互動方面有相對的改善。 本研究中，研究者期望透過心智解讀訓練提升自閉症譜系障礙學生理解他人想法的能力，以及改善其社交互動，使自閉症學生能融入普通課室，與同齡人相處，所以嘗試透過心智解讀訓練來探討此方法是否有效，而結論證實心智解讀訓練能提升自閉症譜系障礙兒童理解他人的能力，以及改善他們的社交互動，促進與同儕之間的社交關係。 建議本澳未來的心智解讀訓練研究中，教學內容結合社交互動技巧及生活經驗。另外，增加了解同儕觀感、入班或小息時間之觀察，以及延長追蹤時間，以令研究變得更為完善。

I have met many friendly and patient professors and classmates during my two years of university. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for the support and encouragement when I encountered difficulties, also professors detailed sharing and explanations in my learning and growing. Taking classes with my job at the same time is a very challenging task, especially in the thesis writing stage, it is difficult to manage the time allocation as well as concentration on thesis writing, and I even had the thoughts of giving up for a few times, but I am very thankful to my supervisor for his continuous support and encouragement during the thesis writing period, and for his attentive guidance whenever I have confusion during the time, he has provided me with a lot of practical and valuable advice, which inspired me a lot. In addition, I would like to thank those who helped me to complete the questionnaire survey. Without their help, I believe it would have been difficult for me to collect enough questionnaires. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the two interviewees who agreed to be interviewed, as it is a difficult task to conduct interviews as a student in Macau. I would like to thank both for their support of the academic research, and the experience that they shared with us is very important to this study. Last but not least, I would like to thank my family, friends, and colleagues for always providing me with positive support, listening to my concerns, and helping me to overcome difficulties one after another. Once again, I would like to thank all those people who have helped me to complete my thesis

This dissertation examines the enduring influence of Walter Murch's seminal editing principles and techniques on contemporary film editors, highlighting how his ideas continue to shape the craft even among those who may not be directly aware of his work. Central to this study is an exploration of Murch's ""Rule of Six,"" which prioritizes emotion, story, rhythm, eye-trace, two-dimensional plane of the screen, and three-dimensional space of action in editing decisions. Additionally, the research delves into Murch's concepts of rhythm and pacing, as well as his emphasis on preserving the emotional impact of a scene. Through a series of in-depth interviews with working editors, this dissertation investigates the extent to which Murch's theoretical framework is manifested in modern editing practices. The study seeks to identify how contemporary editors incorporate these principles into their workflows, consciously or subconsciously, and how these techniques contribute to the narrative and emotional effectiveness of their films. By analyzing the practical decision-making processes of today's editors, this research aims to uncover the degree to which Murch's legacy endures in the film industry. The findings underscore the significant, yet often implicit, role that Murch's editing philosophy plays in shaping the aesthetic and emotional resonance of contemporary cinema. This dissertation thus provides a comprehensive understanding of the lasting impact of Walter Murch's contributions to the art and science of film editing

In the 21st century, poverty still remains a serious issue for the world, halting development and growth of nations. SDG 1 refers to the first Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) established by United nations. It has as goal to “end poverty in all its forms everywhere”. Cape Verde as an UN member also adopted it and aligned national policies to achieve it. This thesis aimed to analyze the different policies adopted by the government of Cape Verde to implement SDG 1. Moreover, this dissertation will also point out the different actors behind the implementation of SGD 1 in Cabo Verde (both national and international actors), as well as find out their role in alleviating poverty in Cabo Verde, in other words, how they contribute to poverty alleviation in Cabo Verde. Based on a qualitative methodology, using document analysis as method to collect the data and further using thematic analysis to analyze, code and categorize the collected data, the study was able to answer the two research questions: Research question 1: What are the different policies adopted by the government of Cape Verde to implement SDG 1. Research question 2: Who and what are the roles of the actors involved in the implementation of SDG 1 in Cape Verde? The findings of the study revealed that: As to research question 1, the study found out that the government of Cape Verde has adopted several policies geared towards poverty reduction. Such policies included social protection policies, investment in infrastructure policies, investment in education policies, investment in health policies, investment in rural development policies, economic diversification policies, gender equality and women empowerment policies, job creation policies and climate change adaptation policies. As for research question 2, the study 4 revealed there are two main Actors are responsible for the implementation of SDG 1, government institutions and National and International Partners. On one hand, the government of Cape Verde is focused on creating and adopting polices that target the poor, as result this make sure that they can lift from poverty or at least avoid they sinking into deeper poverty. On the other hand, the partners (here known as Actors) helping on the implementation of SDG 1 in Cape Verde work as a backup for the government, helping it on other issues related to SDG 1 implementation such as knowledge and capital provision and so on. The Cape Verde government is dedicated to reducing poverty, focusing on the unemployment and migration phenomenon. These factors contribute to poverty and exacerbate it. Despite these challenges, the overall outlook on poverty reduction in Cape Verde is optimistic, indicating a significant commitment to address the root causes of poverty

Source-based summary writing is an important aspect of academic writing at the undergraduate level; it includes summarizing and paraphrasing when producing texts in essay, report, or thesis formats. For university students whose second language or foreign language is English, source-based writing can be a challenging task as it involves and requires complex cognitive processes as well as reading-and-writing demands. Organized into three phases, this mixed method, small-scale exploratory feasibility case study investigated: (i) challenges and difficulties in online and offline English source-based summary writing of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) university students in Macao, identifying the cognitive and writing processes they experienced in a timed reading-writing task; and (ii) how to design and conduct interventions that could be used to diagnose, assess, and address essay challenges in source-based summary essay writing in everyday classroom sessions. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through a summary online writing essay using Inputlog, a keystroke logging software, and retrospective think-aloud protocol in Phase One, a source-based summary essay writing task in a quasi-experiment in Phase Two, and a survey questionnaire and error analysis of pre-test and post-test essays of the control and experimental groups in Phase Three. The processes of reading and writing in English were found to be challenging and complex for EFL university students to perform in a limited time. As an initial exploratory feasibility, efficacy trial, deliberately small scale to address issues of risk, this study found that the diagnostic assessment tools and interventions had the potential to improve the summary writing processes and proficiency of EFL students, focusing on their cognitive writing skills in everyday class sessions. The thesis recommends scaling up the research in future studies, in terms of sampling and the duration of interventions designed to improve source-based summary essay writing and the cognitive writing processes that are part of this

This study delves into the television news practices of TDM (Teledifusão de Macau, S.A.) and TVS (Televisão Santomense) over the past five years (2018-2023), using a systematic approach, this research begins with an introduction outlining the broadcasters' contexts and influences. A content analysis of a representative sample of news programs from both channels forms the core of the study. To gain deeper insights, the research employs a mixed methodological approach. Qualitative data is gathered through interviews with the chief journalist of TVS and 150 residents from Água Grande and Cauê Districts (Angolares ). Additionally, a quantitative analysis is conducted through an online survey targeting the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries in Macao, garnering 150 responses. The findings highlight the need for improvements to increase viewership. While both broadcasters cover similar news topics (politics, economics, social issues), their presentation styles differ. TDM and TVS adopt a formal and structured approach, but their visual storytelling techniques reflect cultural and regional preferences. The study then interprets the results, examining historical context, cultural influences, and audience preferences to understand the divergent approaches to television journalism. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights to enhance news viewership and offers a deeper understanding of the factors shaping television journalism in these two distinct contexts

This dissertation explores the concept of a topographic shopping mall in Macau inspired by the region's mountainous landscapes and its potential to integrate nature within urban environments. As consumer preferences increasingly shift towards sustainable and health- oriented experiences, the incorporation of nature-inspired design principles emerges as a critical response to these demands. This study investigates how blending natural elements— such as local flora, organic forms, and water features—can enhance the shopping experience, fostering a deeper connection between individuals and their environment. The research addresses key questions regarding the effective integration of nature-inspired design in commercial architecture, the impact of these elements on user experience and well-being, and their influence on economic performance. By examining existing design strategies and their effects on visitor satisfaction, this dissertation aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the benefits associated with nature-inspired retail environments. Ultimately, the findings highlight the importance of creating biophilic spaces that not only fulfill practical needs but also promote health and a sense of community, positioning the topographic shopping mall as a potential model for future commercial developments.

Although Macau students received years of English lectures as compulsory, the outcome could be more favorable when applied to English written performance. In that written communication requires the individual to consider audience perception of the message, a challenge for ESL writers, this study explores whether different forms of feedback can enhance one’s cultural intelligence.The current study looked into the effect of incorporating peer involvement and instructor feedback in written communication, gaining insight into cultural nuances. In order to attain the objective, data were gathered through the utilization of an action research methodology employing a mixed-method design. Grade twelve local students attended a six-week six-week intervention consisting of two cycles. The focus of the intervention nurtured essay writing; the topics of which were inspired by popular musical lyrics, and involved a drafting process that incorporated feedback both from peer editing and the instructor.. The data collected throughout the study involved analysis of written samples (scores of draft and final version) using a paired samples t-test. In addition, students completed a pre-test and post-test survey of the cultural intelligence instrument (CQ), which measured their performance across four domains. There were statistically significant differences between cognitive CQ and motivational CQ between the scores attained before and directly after the intervention.. This study's findings suggest that the written communication of ESL students may be enhanced by adjusting . These findings enriched our understanding of how peer editing and teacher feedback with songs affected the outcomes of second language learners

Quality inclusive education creates educational opportunities for all students to achieve enhanced educational outcomes, and the quality of inclusive teaching depends on teachers’ knowledge, skills, resources and school support. However, not all schools are implementing inclusive education well enough to cater to the learning needs of students with special educational needs. This phenomenological case study explored the perspectives and experiences of five teachers in one inclusive secondary school in Macau. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) of the in-depth semi- structured interview data revealed four themes: varied conceptualisations of inclusive education, professional training in inclusive practice, professional knowledge and practice experiences, and challenges to implementing inclusive education. Generally, while the teachers demonstrated awareness and some understanding of inclusive education, they also expressed the need for more knowledge and skills to implement inclusive education effectively in their schools. Additionally, they referred to time pressure, workload and insufficient professional development as impeding their personal processes of evolving inclusive teaching in their school. Recommendations were made considering Booth and Ainscow's (2002) Index of Inclusion to enable effective development and practice of inclusive education in the Macau secondary school and extend this to other schools

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a public health emergency happening worldwide. It brought tremendous impacts to the global economy and people’s mental health (Jiaqi Xiong et al., 2020). Many people suffered physically and psychologically with the sudden arrival of COVID-19. Among the different age groups, studies identified that undergraduate students as a vulnerable group with a higher risk of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety (Silva et al., 2022; King et al., 2022; Mansor & Ahmad, 2022). This qualitative study collected data from six focus group interviews with undergraduate students studying in Macao. Thematic analysis was used to understand the COVID-19 impact on students' mental well-being and coping strategies, as well as to explore the protective and risk factors that contribute to students’ mental well-being in the local context of Macao. Results showed four themes with 15 contributory sub-themes: COVID-19’s impact on students’ mental well-being, key impacting sources, coping strategies, and risk and protective factors. This study provides a picture of the mental health condition of undergraduate students during the zero-COVID period in Macao and raises an urgent call for extra attention to university students’ mental health during crises, showing the social and mental needs of undergraduates. This research also uniquely contributes insight into how the dysfunctionality of families could be a significant risk factor for students’ mental health during the crisis, which is rarely found in other COVID-19 studies. This research suggests a promotion of future programs or workshops that would strengthen and benefits students’ relationship with their family. Future research could explore the family function in Macao and its relationship with students’ mental well-being

This study examined the acquisition of higher-order thinking skills in an English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom at a secondary school in Macau. It included an investigation of the way teaching might affect the development of higher-order thinking skills and language proficiency. This study also included an examination of the degree to which existing societal practices or values might have influenced the acquisition of higher-order thinking skills. Research instruments such as a questionnaire, a twelve-week experiment, pre-and post-tests and interview sessions were used for the data collection. The findings suggested that after twelve weeks the experimental groups developed higher synthetical and evaluative skills than the control groups which instead demonstrated better language skills. The results also identified incongruences between the curriculum and the expectations of the parents and employers