An SWOT Analysis and the ASK Model

Strengths:
   
 
Already adopting a 4-year model with a vision to emphasize the whole-person education philosophy
Already adopting an American credit unit system
Providing a comprehensive range of programmes of study already
Most major programmes achieve international standards and some enjoy high regional/international reputations
Funding: a public university with increasing and stable funding from the government
University's true academic autonomy in deciding what programmes/courses to offer and their contents
University's long-term plans with clear goals and directions
 
Weaknesses:
   
 
Too heavy teaching load in most departments due to too heavy major requirements
No university requirement on the maximum number of major units
Many students are overloaded with major requirements and have little time/room for free thinking, taking free electives or participating in co-curricula activities
Insufficient space/facilities (e.g. lack of laboratory and sports facilities) to support some new course areas
Has not widely implemented the learning outcome-based approach
Insufficient flexibility for students to change their major and take electives
Not enough emphasis on general education
 
Opportunities:
   
 
Having a new and much bigger campus
Securing Macao a competitive position in this globalized and knowledge-based world
Training talents who are really needed by the Macao society and could make an impact on the society
Balancing the social, economic and cultural development of the Macao society enhancing social harmony and quality of life
Achieving international/professional accreditation for some professional programmes, e.g. business, education, engineering programmes
Echoing global trends of undergraduate education reforms and to further enhance the international reputation of UM
 
Threats/Challenges:
   
 
Increasing competition for well-qualified teachers (particularly senior professors)
Losing good quality local students who may go study overseas
Resistance from some main stakeholders in implementing new changes
 
Desired Graduate Attributes
   
 

The "ASK" Model of Desired Graduate Attributes developed by the Vice Rector (Academic Affairs) shows that students need diverse Attitude, Skills and Knowledge sets. Our curriculum should cultivate undergraduates with at least the following desired attributes:
   
Maintaining a good balance between depth/specialty and breath
Be able to think independently, critically and creatively
Be able to be trilingual and biliterate in English and Chinese
Have effective mathematics and IT literacy to reason and solve problems
Have good interpersonal and communication skills
Have competence to face the challenges of globalization and knowledge economy
Be lifelong learners with an open mind and an inquiring spirit
Ability to appreciate and preserve cultural heritages
Be responsible citizens with global vision, a moral sense, an attitude to serve and take up responsibility