Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, invited Dr. Ka-Fai UN, State-Key Laboratory of Analog and Mixed-Signal VKSL Assistant Professor and MCM College affiliate, to conduct a workshop on AI speech device.

The workshop began by introducing the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence technology, particularly in the field of voice control. Dr. Un delved into the applications of voice-controlled smart furniture and the automatic generation of subtitles using speech devices. He also provided insights into how artificial intelligence tackles different voice tasks and showcased intriguing examples of multilingual recognition. Moreover, he took the opportunity to present some of the accomplishments achieved by his research team in the design of speech processing chips in recent years.

The rise of artificial intelligence has triggered transformative waves in various industries, and it has become crucial for individuals to stay attuned to the demands of the times. 

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau (UM) created a short film titled The Invisible Self, to draw public attention to mental health, and foster discussions. On 7^th February 2024, MCM College resident fellow and film producer, Alice Hong and crew members headed to Macau Anglican College for a school tour screening, targeting 500 students from Form 1 to Form 6.

The Invisible Self is a film about self-worth, embracing both the positive and negative aspects of oneself, and establishing a connection with one’s inner self. The main roles and the behind-the-scenes staff are played by MCM College members. The script was co-written by local director, Steven U and second-year college student, Celina Wang (Department of Portuguese Studies).

In the post-screening session, the film’s producer, director, screen writer and UM psychological counsellor interacted with the audience and shared some issues about mental health, such as emotional awareness, stress symptoms and management, professional help seeking. Dr. Evlo Sou, Head of UM Student Counselling Section emphasized, “Self-worth does not equate to personal achievement”, which was thought-provoking for the students. The screening was well received by students and teachers.

“I’ve learnt from the film that whatever grade you achieve or whatever accomplishment you make, it does not make you a better or worse person. What makes up your own self-worth is your confidence, mindset and how you react to different people and situations.” – Alicia Lei (Form 4 student)

“ The film does a great job of showing a person overwhelmed by a lot of issues. It reflects our open self and our hidden self. I believe psychological counseling is very important because a counselor can help you express what is hidden inside your heart. It’s a release of stress.” – Valentino Wong (Form 6 Student)

“The film reminded us to keep raising mental health awareness issues and provide easy access to support mechanisms for those in need. I was very happy to note that the film resonates with our stance on supporting anyone with mental health related illnesses and the key message is that they are not alone as there is always someone to speak to.” – Andrea Munoyenda (Head of Secondary)

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau held a Spring Carnival on 31^st January 2024 to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year.  This event was carefully planned by house leaders and House Association so students and staff could experience a traditional Chinese festival culture. The event attracted over 100 participants, including the associate master, resident and non-resident fellows and affiliates. The atmosphere was cheerful as students participated in various games booths such as: Chinese paper cutting, couplets writing, dough figurine making, hand-made caramelized fruits, sugar painting and DIY press-on nails. There were wonderful musical and band performances, which was appreciated by everyone.

Text: Katty Zhang

Since the establishment of Moon Chun Memorial College, the College logo has used three types of animals to spread the educational values of truth, goodness, and beauty. Using the unicorn as the symbol of purity, Dom Pedro V House collaborated with the Artist in Residence, Ms. Ines Chan, in hosting the Unicorn Recycling and Creation activity to enable students to have a deeper understanding of the college motto through artwork creation.

The activity is divided into two parts: recycling and creation. From September 4 to October 8, 2023, the duration was dedicated to recycling plastic bottles. During this period, participating students had to collect at least five plastic bottles and clean them before putting them into the designated collection point. A total of 321 plastic bottles were collected during the said period, laying a good foundation for the event.

On October 11 and 18, 2023, the unicorn creation workshop was successfully held, with the assistance from Artist in Residence, Ms Ines Chan. In this workshop, students used their imagination and creativity to transform ordinary plastic bottles into charming unicorn shapes. Through cutting, painting, and gluing techniques, they transformed the plastic bottles into the head and body of the unicorn and added colorful details to the model.

Story about Unicorn creation:

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/unicorn%20creation%20story%20%28with%20subtitle%29.mp4

Students carefully made prototypes of unicorns

The workshop offered students a chance to merge their creativity with the culture of MCMC and cultivate their sense of civic responsibility. Through active participation, students developed a deeper understanding of the College’s educational values and fostered a stronger sense of belonging. MCMC fosters an environment that encourages creative exploration, environmental awareness, and the creation of a lively and innovative community.

Group photo

Text: Ruby Lou, Thomas Hoi

On 29^th January, 2024, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau held an entrepreneurial mindset seminar titled “Building AI and Educational Technology in Macao”.  This seminar was hosted by Mr. Otto Leong, CEO of 369 Co-op Town Limited., and Mr. Lai Man Fai, founder of Merit Smart Technology Co. Ltd. was invited to share his entrepreneurial experiences in providing STEAM solutions for schools in Macao with students.

Lai, a former middle school history teacher, saw potential development opportunities of AI education, so he gave up a stable job and founded a technology company. During the seminar, he introduced the background of his company, and explained the importance of artificial intelligence education to the future development of primary and secondary school students and its application in real life. In addition, he shared the challenges and difficulties encountered during his entrepreneurial journey, and how to overcome these difficulties. Lai emphasized that entrepreneurship is a continuous problem-solving process that extremely challenges an individual’s critical thinking, problem-solving and action-taking abilities. He encouraged everyone to sharpen their soft skills while in college to be better prepared for future entrepreneurship.

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, invited Dr. Fu Chen, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Education, to conduct a workshop on the potential of big data in education and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the learning process.

During the presentation, Dr. Chen covered a wide range of topics related to the impact of big data on education. Students showed keen curiosity about the Four V’s of Big Data: Volume, Variety, Velocity, and Veracity. Dr. Chen explained how these aspects play a crucial role in extracting meaningful insights from vast amounts of educational data, enabling educators to make informed decisions and tailor teaching methods to individual students’ needs.

Dr. Chen went on to elaborate on various AI applications and the redefinition of “plagiarism” and “cheating” in the context of AI and big data. These discussions stimulated lively engagement among the attendees. Furthermore, Dr. Chen explored the seamless integration of AI into everyday learning and living, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between utilizing AI as a tool and maintaining a human-centered approach to education.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which Dr. Chen addressed thought-provoking questions from the audience. The attendees’ engagement and enthusiasm demonstrated the relevance and significance of the topic in the education community.

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau and Macau Deaf Association jointly organised an experiential workshop at the Service Centre for Deaf on the 24^th January, 2024. Through interactive explanations, silent experiences, and simulated scenes, participants raised awareness about the deaf and hearing-impaired. Staff first introduced the Macau Deaf Association to participants about four major services: 1) social work services, 2) sign language interpretation services, 3) selective placement services, and 4) lifelong education.

Afterward a silent experience session, participants experienced the communication difficulties faced by the deaf and hearing-impaired. They also learned how various types of hearing-impaired assistive devices can be used. During the workshop, participants learned some simple sign language and staff called on participants to join hands in building a society that is inclusive of hearing and hearing-impaired.

On 20^th January, 2024, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau and senior college fellow, Prof. Nai-Hua Liu (FED) organised a life education excursion Hac Sá Long Chao Kok Coastal Trail, which features ample rock formations and coastal ecological views along the way. The participants were given 1.5 hour to explore the trail, feel the pulse of the sea and appreciate the rocky coastal terrain. When the group arrived the pavilion, Prof. Liu invited everyone to open their senses, hear the wave, feel the wind and watch the sunlight on sparkling sea. At the end of the excursion, the participants gathered at the Hac Sá Park and shared their experiences of the “Nature Awareness” activity and their reflections on life. Please find below Vienne Chen’s sharing:

The blue sky is lined with white clouds, the rocks are accompanied by the waves, and the sun reflects the ocean; the harmonious beauty of nature comes from mutual contrast and reflection!

The rebirth of a butterfly from its cocoon originates from the struggling caterpillar.

In the vast ocean, the egret standing there is still at ease even though it is a drop in the ocean.

On Wednesday, 24^th January, 2024, MCM College hosted a special event where Senior College Fellow, Prof. Glenn McCartney, Associate Dean of Faculty of Business Administration (FBA), shared an informal chat with a small group students over coffee. Topics ranged from self-introductions, careers and education, as well as global competitiveness.

Prof. McCartney began by recalling interesting moments throughout different time periods of his illustrious career. The objective of having a casual conversation over coffee not only enabled students to see just how approachable professors can be, but also provides a rare glimpse into their lives outside of the classroom, such as reasons for their choice of profession, career advice, hobbies and success, and how they impart wisdom to MCMC students.

Coffee with Prof. McCartney was an amazing experience for those who attended as they really appreciated the opportunity to engage in so many meaningful conversations. It was an initiative that bridged the gap between students and professors.

Sand art drawing is a captivating and unique art form that involves manipulating sand to create intricate and visually stunning designs. It requires artists to work quickly and with precision before the sand settles. While temporary, the art form leaves a lasting impression due to its intricate and delicate designs, evoking a sense of beauty and impermanence.

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, hosted an interactive cultural workshop showcasing the talents of renowned HK sand artist Hoi Chiu. The workshop focused on the art of sand creations, where Hoi Chiu conducted a captivating live demonstration. During the demonstration, he incorporated the educational values and motto of MCM College, shared his life story, and engaged the audience in the creation of several sand artwork.

“Sands of Time” – Hoi Chiu Sand Art Sharing Workshop

Sand painting demonstration

Story about MCM College education values (Click for full performance)

Group photo