Keith Morrison
Vice-Rector for Research,
University of Saint Joseph Macao (USJ),
Macao S.A.R, China
From ‘Mixed Methods’ to ‘Integration’ in Social Science Research
Abstract:
Mixed methods research has grown exponentially in social science research since coming of age at the start of this century. This is unsurprising, as ‘mixed methods’ is an irresistible, convenient portmanteau term in social science research. However, the term itself risks being misleading, over‑reductive, and narrowing. This concern is not new, and the term has been the substance of much exegesis, analysis, and exemplification. Recent moves have been made to move from ‘mixed methods’ to ‘integration’ to do justice to the reach of ‘mixed methods’ in all areas and stages of research. This presentation outlines justifications of, and rationales, challenges, implications, and practical ramifications of ‘integration’ for embracing a richer, fairer view in approaching, understanding, theorising, planning, operationalising, conducting, reporting, and evaluating mixed methods research.
Keywords: mixed methods research; MMR; integration; research methods; research paradigms.
Institutional Speakers
Álvaro Barbosa
Vice-rector for Internationalization and Academic Affairs
University of Saint Joseph Macao (USJ),
Macao S.A.R, China
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Adérito Fernandes-Marcos
Dean of the Doctoral School,
University of Saint Joseph Macao (USJ),
Macao S.A.R, China
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International Speakers
Jovan Shopovski
Founding Member and President,
European Scientific Institute, ESI
Macedonia
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Boundaries and Challenges for the Early Career-Researchers
Abstract:
In this talk, the multifaceted challenges faced by early career researchers will be discussed. These young researchers encounter obstacles ranging from funding and publishing pressure to mentorship and work-life balance. We will delve into the importance of finding adequate mentors and building professional networks. The emotional challenges, such as imposter syndrome and pursuing job security and career advancement, will also be discussed. Despite the hurdles, the review of recent scientific literature will highlight the importance of empowering resilient researchers to successfully navigate these challenges and embark on a fulfilling academic journey.
Keywords: Early Career-Researchers, Work-life Balance, Empowerment Resilient Researchers, Building Professional Networks.
Katerina Toshevska – Trpchevska
Chair of International Trade
Faculty of Economics, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Macedonia
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International Trade: Post-pandemic lessons
Abstract:
After the COVID-19 pandemic crises in international economic relations, it became evident that climate-smart components should be considered when re-establishing a new international trade order. International organisations have proclaimed that this momentum should be used to include climate-smart trade and investment provisions to enable sustainable development.
In this talk, we focus the analysis on investigating the climate-smart component of trade facilitation measures applied in Western Balkans countries. To evaluate the importance of trade facilitation measures and their climate-smart component, we apply the standard gravity model with the data from the UN on trade facilitation and paperless trade. The results have shown that trade facilitation measures are important for improving and increasing trade among the Western Balkans countries. Especially measures connected to improving transparency procedures in trade and measures for alleviating trade formalities are most significant for increasing bilateral trade.
Keywords: climate-smart trade facilitation, UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation, Western Balkans countries, gravity model.
Dejan Marolov
Founding Member,
European Scientific Institute, ESI, Macedonia
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Exploring the Spectrum of Diplomacy with Emphasis on Science Diplomacy
Abstract:
This research talk delves into the diverse landscape of diplomacy, ranging from traditional statecraft to emerging forms of engagement, with a particular focus on the burgeoning field of Science Diplomacy. The exploration encompasses an introduction to diplomacy in general, a classification of various diplomatic types, and an examination of the diplomatic spectrum. A substantial portion of the study centres on Science Diplomacy, elucidating its key aspects through in-depth analysis, case studies, and evaluating its impact on international relations. Finally, the paper envisions the future of diplomacy and Science Diplomacy, considering the evolving global context, technological advancements, and the potential for science to address complex global challenges. The above is very important to remember that Diplomacy plays an integral role in international relations, facilitating communication, negotiation, and cooperation among nations.
Keywords: Diplomacy, Diplomatic Spectrum, Science Diplomacy, Types of Diplomacy, Diplomatic Evolution.
Maria Maclennan
Lecturer (Teaching and Research) in Jewellery and Silversmithing
University of Edinburgh, Scotland
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Devising Transdisciplinary Research Paths: Becoming the World’s First ‘Forensic Jeweller’
Abstract:
Encompassing DNA, fingerprints, and odontology, traditional ‘primary’ approaches to forensic human identification generally rely upon the physical body to provide evidence. In instances where these methods may not be readily available, ‘secondary’ methods such as jewellery and other personal effects can play a potentially integral role in reconstructing circumstances surrounding death – even narrowing down presumptive identity.
Indeed, belongings such as rings, watches, glasses, and photographs are often recovered with people on the move: personal treasures, protective talismen, or alternative currencies for the journey ahead. From the handmade ta’wiz amulets offering safety to the wearer to the misbaha beads used to keep count during prayer; the unique nature of many items may serve to support identification in instances where individuals sadly do not make it safely to their intended destination. However, with many objects interchangeable between persons in a group (often gifted, stolen, or traded – particularly in the migration context), the limitations of personal effects in the identification process must also be considered.
Drawing upon various academic projects and forensic/police casework, Dr Maria Maclennan – the world’s first ‘Forensic Jeweller’ – will introduce us to the emergent interdisciplinary arena of Forensic Jewellery. Told through a variety of objects carried by individuals on their journeys: the extensive historical and contemporary links connecting jewellery, identity, death, and the human form will be explored, as will the application of (seemingly unrelated) tools, techniques, and approaches within the jewellery industry can assist police and forensic investigators with the identification of human remains.
Keywords: design; jewellery; forensics; identity; death; the human body.
Thales Speroni
Postdoctoral Researcher,
CER-M (Centre for the Study and Research on Migrations),
NAWI Observatory
Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain
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Environmental Migrations in a Crisis-Ridden World: Unpacking Interpretative and Normative Conundrums
Abstract:
This presentation addresses the pressing issue of environmental migration, a rapidly accelerating phenomenon without adequate scientific and institutional responses. Current projections indicate that environmental degradation could displace more than 250 million people by 2050 (World Bank, 2021). The frequency of environmental migrations is increasing due to a rise in extreme weather events, which result in abrupt displacements, as well as the long-term effects of extractive economic models that lead to slower, more gradual population movements. These challenges disproportionately affect local communities, particularly those in the Global South. Despite its escalating prevalence, environmental migration remains under-researched, with insufficient data, analysis, and dedicated social and legal protection mechanisms. Although existing literature offers various heuristic frameworks for comprehending the issue, ambiguities in the terminology and legal status of environmental migrants significantly impede efforts to protect their rights and well-being. To address these gaps, this presentation systematically reviews contemporary interpretive and legal frameworks, exploring their sociological and legal implications.
Keywords: Environmental Migration; Forced Displacement; Climate Refugees; Climate Change; Environmental Crisis.
Doctoral Candidates
Choi Seng Hon (Miles)
Smart Home Technology Development and Application for Older Persons Awareness, Willingness, Reception and Engagement: A Comparative Study in Macao, Nagasaki and Lisbon
Abstract:
This research aims to answer the following main questions related to Smart Home Technology (SHT) and sub-questions:
- What will the older persons in Macau will achieve in their living spaces through the SHT development and application?
- What are their needs through the SHT? To what extent could the current electrical appliances meet their latest needs?
- What are their wants through the SHT? Which dimensions of their living spaces need to be transformed under the SHT to fulfil such wants?
- How can we sustainably upgrade the SHT to meet their new desire efficiently and effectively?
- What is the awareness, willingness, reception, and engagement of SHT of the older persons in Macao, Nagasaki and Lisbon?
- To what extent should the strategy be used for efficient and effective awareness of SHT?
- What are the effects to trigger their willingness to use SHT?
- What is their reception to maximise SHT by the technology acceptance model?
- How do we optimise their engagement on SHT for their needs and wants?
Keywords: Smart Home Technology, Older Persons Awareness, Willingness, Reception and Engagement.
Chung Siu Wing (David)
Intangible interface design for generative art: audience participation in real and virtual reality worlds
Abstract:
Generative art is an innovative form of artistic expression that utilizes math and computer programs to create intricate patterns and designs. What makes it unique is the interaction between people and the creative process. This study introduces the iCube, a portable device designed to facilitate collaboration and engagement with generative art. Users can use their hands or body movements to control the shape, speed, and direction of the art. They can also use voice level to trigger specific actions or transformations within the generative art.
Rather than focusing on creating visually appealing art, this study aims to understand how people interact with the intangible interface and collaborate to generate unique artistic outputs. We look forward to seeing this device provide users with a unique and engaging experience in other creative domains, and we are excited to see its potential applications continue to expand.
Keywords: User interface, tangible interface, generative art, human-computer interaction, virtual reality, game.
Li Xiang (Shirley)
Death Education: Effectiveness and Feasibility of a Project Targeting Macao Community Youth Volunteers Working with The Elderly
Abstract:
The process of aging and dying is common to all human beings, but many of us think and know little about it. Death education is educational intervention that guide the audience to think about death and learn to face death. As an aging society, Macau lacks death education programs for the general public. This doctoral project aims to develop and test the effectiveness and feasibility of a death education program targeting Macau community youth volunteers working with the elderly. A quasi-experimental interventional study designed with mixed methods was conducted from August 2022 to November 2022. A total of 69 participants were enrolled, with experimental group (n=36) and waiting-list control group (n=33). The effectiveness and feasibility were measured at the time point of pre-post and 3-month follow-up. The results showed positive outcomes of the death education program.
Keywords: Death education, Death coping, Death anxiety, Life attitude, Aging and dying..
Yuan Haojun (Joshua)
Tracing Carmelite Roots in the Personalism of Edith Stein and Karol Wojtyła
Abstract:
In philosophy, knowing the nature of the human person is a perennial question. This question, later feeding into personalist philosophy or personalism, is the point from which the philosophising methods of Edith Stein and Karol Wojtyła emerged. Their philosophising methods derive from phenomenology and Thomism. Both twentieth-century thinkers were attracted to a medieval spiritual tradition: the Carmelite tradition. Apart from being formed by phenomenology and Thomism, their personalism may also have been influenced by Carmelite spirituality. This dissertation aims to trace and identify the influence of Carmelite spirituality on their personalism. I argue that the key concept of Carmelite spirituality – the Dark Night – has predisposed them both to the philosophising methods and analyses they offer of the nature of the human person.
Keywords: Carmelite, personalism, phenomenology, Thomistic metaphysics, Edith Stein, Karol Wojtyła.
Daniel Farinha
SEDA: A study of conservation techniques for networked cryptoart
Abstract:
Blockchain technology enables a new type of experimental software-based digital artwork that evolves over time, powered by the artwork’s “awareness” of its own existence on the marketplace and of external factors. This new artistic medium also presents considerable challenges for creating and preserving such dynamic art, both technical and philosophical in nature. This presentation will introduce the ongoing doctoral research study into conservation techniques for networked cryptoart, including the design and implementation of software systems that can support the longevity and preservation of this new type of art.
Keywords: Blockchain, Crypto-art, Net-art, Dynamic Preservation, NFT, Conservation.
Michael Dudoff
Where do stakeholders’ perceptions of e-learning intersect with usage and outcomes?
Abstract:
The research aims to explore the intersections of e-learning expectancies among key stakeholders (teachers, parents, students and administrators), comparing these expectations to actual use and examining stakeholder’s beliefs on the purpose and efficacy of e-learning, focusing on the school platform SEQTA. It further investigates how attitudes towards e-learning (and SEQTA) might influence adoption. Finally, the study seeks to use these findings to enhance e-learning practices and their implementation for maximum positive impact on stakeholders while ensuring the sustainability of these efforts.
Keywords: E-learning, Expectancies, Intersections, Attitudes, SEQTA, Stakeholders.
Ho Hong Wai
Investigating the Premium Market in Macau Casinos: Policy, Regulation, Practice, and Challenge
Abstract:
This study aims to investigate the casino regulatory system in Macau and propose a feasible policy and regulatory model with specific recommendations for the local gaming industry’s operational aspects of the premium market. Drawing upon interdisciplinary perspectives from public policy, law and business, this research comprehensively examines and assesses the policy framework, regulatory model, and business practices of the premium market in casinos. It specifically addresses the regulatory and operational challenges associated with the premium direct and premium mass market segments within the gaming industry. This study provides new insights into regulating and operating the premium market in casinos, offering practical implications for policymakers in formulating effective industry policies.
Keywords: Gaming Policy, Regulatory Model, Premium Market, VIP Room, Junket, Macau Casino.
Chinyang Lin (Coka)
Stock Investment Strategy Prediction Using Deep Learning Models and Sentiment Analysis: A Hybrid Approach
Abstract:
This presentation will outline my thesis proposal, which aims to develop a hybrid artificial intelligence (AI) system for predicting the stock market. The system combines deep learning techniques, such as Long Short-Term Memory and Transformer, with deep reinforcement learning to predict stock prices using historical trading data and technical indicators. It also applies sentiment analysis methods to extract market sentiment from social media and financial news data. I will report the outcomes of the systematic literature review on “Stock Market Prediction using AI,” which has been acknowledged as the Top 1 paper download on SSRN from Jan to Mar 2023.
I will also present the achievement of receiving a review recognition certificate on Elsevier Reviewer Hub for “IRFA” in Nov 2022. The presentation will summarise the main findings from two international conference papers that compare different AI models for stock price prediction using data from the Hong Kong Share Market and global stock indices.
Keywords: Deep Learning (DL), Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Sentiment Analysis, Stock Prediction, Transformer.
Pedro Costa
Mineralogical and Geochemical Signatures of Mid-Ocean Ridge Hydrothermal Oxyhydroxide Deposits
Abstract:
The thesis aims to constrain the mineralogical and geochemical signatures of submarine Fe-Mn oxyhydroxide (Fe-Mn-OH) hydrothermal deposits to understand their formation and evolution, as well as attempt to establish methods to ascertain the spatial distribution of the most relevant elements found in OH. To achieve the objectives, the work done is carried out through the combined data pooled from previous studies on these types of deposits and the work done on the samples collected from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) and the Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR) through oceanographic scientific cruises.
Keywords: Mineralogical and Geochemical Signatures, Submarine Fe-Mn Oxyhydroxide, Mid-Ocean Ridge Hydrothermal Oxyhydroxide Deposits.