Reading and Writing Instruction and Assessment

This area examines evidence-based approaches to developing reading and writing skills across educational levels and learner populations. It addresses both instructional practices and the design, validation, and application of assessments that measure literacy performance and growth. Leveraging Macau’s distinctive multilingual ecosystem—characterized by “dual script (繁简), quadrilingual (普通话/粤语/葡语/英语)” and its multicultural context – this strand of research develops evidence-based models for improving Chinese, English, and Portuguese reading and writing instruction and assessment. Research integrates theoretical insights with classroom applications to ensure that instructional strategies and assessment tools work together to improve literacy outcomes in diverse contexts.

Language Learning and Language Development

This area investigates the processes and mechanisms underlying both first and additional language acquisition and development. Research informs the design of linguistically and culturally responsive curricula and instructional strategies that address learners’ needs across age groups and settings. It serves as a foundation for advancing both theoretical understanding and practical innovation in language education.

Literacy Education and Digital Literacy

This area investigates literacy across various modalities, from traditional print-based forms to emerging digital contexts. It focuses on integrating digital technologies into literacy instruction, developing students’ multimodal competencies, and fostering critical engagement with digital media. Research informs the design of inclusive, future-oriented literacy curricula that prepare learners for academic, professional, and civic participation in digital environments.

Language Assessment and Testing

This area focuses on the principles and practices that shape the design, implementation, and impact of language assessments across educational contexts. It addresses issues such as test validity, reliability, fairness, and washback within both large-scale standardized testing and classroom-based assessment. Research aims to advance assessment literacy among educators and inform equitable, evidence-based assessment policies and practices.

AI-Enhanced Language Learning

This area examines the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in supporting and transforming language learning and education. It focuses on understanding how AI-driven tools, such as intelligent tutoring systems, adaptive learning platforms, and automated feedback systems, can facilitate personalized learning, enhance engagement, and provide data-informed insights into language development. Research also addresses ethical considerations and pedagogical implications to guide the responsible integration of AI into language education.

Bilingual and Multilingual Education

This area examines educational models, policies, and practices that foster bilingual and multilingual competencies. It emphasizes the development of inclusive and contextually responsive programs that recognize and leverage linguistic diversity as a resource for learning. Research promotes equitable learning environments where students’ linguistic identities are affirmed, and multilingual abilities are cultivated as valuable assets for academic and social participation.

Curriculum Design and Materials Development

This area examines the theories, principles, and practices that inform the development of curricula and instructional materials to be pedagogically sound, culturally responsive, and learner-centered. It addresses contexts ranging from large-scale curriculum frameworks to resources for individual lessons. Research supports educators in creating materials that are educationally effective, contextually relevant, and adaptable to diverse learner needs.

Language Teacher Education

This area focuses on the pre-service preparation and in-service professional development of language educators. It emphasizes the development of pedagogical expertise, intercultural competence, and adaptive capacity among teachers to address the demands of diverse and evolving educational contexts. Research in this field offers evidence-based guidance for policies and practices that enhance the quality, effectiveness, and sustainability of the language teaching profession.