https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/248 2026-04-23T03:34:17Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145791 Title: Doctoral school annual lecture 2025 : mental health in academia : towards a more sustainable future Authors: Mol, Stefan T.; Vella, Nicholas C. Abstract: With what has been dubbed ‘the mental health crisis in academia’, and mounting evidence that mental health issues such as depression and burnout are more prevalent amongst academics than in the general population (with PhD candidates and postdocs most affected), it is time for the research community to introspect and to break the silence around researcher psychological well-being and ill-being. In his keynote address, Stefan Mol will talk about the state of mental health in academia, introduce a number of manifestos he collaborated on, and present the initial outcomes of the Sustainable Working Conditions in Academia Survey (STAIRCASE). This was the result of the Researcher Mental Health Observatory (ReMO) Cost Action project, focused on creating the largest ever European Benchmark of the contextual antecedents of Mental Health across more than 30 countries. In addition, some training opportunities that early career researchers may benefit from in nourishing and sustaining their own mental health, will be introduced. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145617 Title: Officium Proprium Sancti Publii Episcopi et Martyris ac Primi Episcopi Ecclesiæ Melitensis ejusque Patroni Minus Princ. Sub Ritu Duplici Secundæ Classis Recitadum A Clero Sæculari et Regulari Kalend. Diœc. Utente. Abstract: This 1876 liturgical booklet, printed in Malta by Franciscus Cumbo, contains the "Proper Office of Saint Publius," the island's first bishop and martyr. Approved for use by both secular and regular clergy using the diocesan calendar, the text outlines the prayers and hymns for the feast celebrated on the second Sunday after Easter. Designated as a "Double Rite of the Second Class," the office underscores the historical and spiritual significance of Publius’s conversion following St. Paul’s shipwreck. Description: Translation of title: Proper Office of Saint Publius, Bishop and Martyr, and First Bishop of the Church of Malta, and its Lesser Principal Patron. To be recited under the Double Rite of the Second Class by the Secular and Regular Clergy using the Diocesan Calendar. 1876-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145470 Title: Breaking the ice : a social exchange study on gamification, library anxiety, and the willingness to return at the University of Malta Library Authors: Scicluna, Ryan Abstract: Purpose Grounded in Social Exchange Theory, this study investigates the efficacy of gamified orientation as an initiatory social transaction to mitigate Library Anxiety. It aims to determine if gamification lowers the psychological “cost” of entry and increases the “benefit” of return intention compared to traditional methods, while evaluating the moderating role of “Game Literacy.” Design/methodology/approach A quasi-experimental, post-test-only design was employed with 132 first-year undergraduates at the University of Malta. Following a pilot study to validate content, intact classes were assigned to either a traditional lecture (n = 65) or a gamified narrative quest (n = 67). Immediate affective outcomes were measured using the Library Anxiety Scale and Net Promoter Score. Findings Gamification produced a statistically significant reduction in Library Anxiety (d = 1.55) and higher return intentions compared to the control group. However, a significant interaction effect revealed a “literacy tax”: while gamification benefited all participants, students with low game literacy reported higher anxiety than their high-literacy peers, indicating that game mechanics can impose a secondary cognitive load. Originality/value Unlike studies focusing solely on learning outcomes, this research quantifies the affective impact of gamification through a social exchange lens. It provides empirical evidence that while gamification successfully “breaks the ice,” equitable implementation requires “low-threshold” mechanics to ensure non-gamers are not disadvantaged. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145355 Title: Outreach department annual report 2025 Abstract: Established in 2012 with the mission to connect the Library with the University community, the Outreach Department has evolved significantly in response to the changing academic landscape. The post-COVID era, in particular, has marked a shift in the Library’s identity. Moving beyond its traditional role as a static repository of resources, the Library has actively embraced the "Third Place" philosophy, serving as a space distinct from the classroom and the home. In this new capacity, the Library is prioritising social connection, wellbeing, and collaborative learning. For 2026, the Department is focusing on cementing this transition by being involved in research projects and strategic collaborations. By partnering with entities such as the Equity Office, the Institute of Digital Games, and the Faculty of Education, the Department is positioning the Library as a central hub for culture, digital literacy, and student inclusion. Concurrently, the Department continues to manage the Library’s digital presence, ensuring that this supportive, social atmosphere is reflected across all communication channels. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z