I would like to acknowledge the help and support given to me in the Graduate School of Education by all the tutors, the programmes administrative staff and librarians, for always being there to listen and to give the best suggestion, and to show their care whenever I need it.
Deepest gratitude goes especially to Dr. Helen Woodfield, my supervisor, whose patience, kindness and advice have been the cornerstone that supported me all the way to the end of my research.
Thanks are due to all my friends and classmates in Bristol, Anita, Charlotte, Fay, Janet and Yu-po particularly, for the happiness and sorrow we shared within this memorable year.
