OAR@UM Collection:

Classroom acoustics : a Maltese perspective

2017-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Classroom acoustics : a Maltese perspective Abstract: In the last three decades, numerous studies have shown the impact that classroom acoustics has on the teaching/learning process. A number of international standards and guidelines have been developed to ensure a good standard of classroom acoustics. The objective of this study was to analyse certain acoustical characteristics of Maltese primary state school classrooms, their effect of students and teachers, and whether they meet international guidelines. Information on classroom geometry, materials and ventilation strategies was gathered for 180 classrooms chosen from a sample of 30 state schools in Malta. Measurements of ambient noise levels were also carried out in 90 unoccupied classrooms from the same sample of 30 schools. These measurements and researcher’s observations were complemented with questionnaires completed by teachers teaching in the schools surveyed in this study, which captured their viewpoint on classrooms acoustics. Visual inspections identified that Maltese state primary schools are finished predominantly in acoustically-hard materials, which lead to a reverberant (echoey) environment. Teacher questionnaire responses revealed several sources of noise which were considered as disruptive These included sources of noise from within and from outside the classroom. Questionnaires also provided information on the adverse effect that the classroom acoustics have on the teachers’ voice. A statistically significant relationship was found between the measured ambient noise and several domains from the teacher questionnaire. Introduction of regulations and performance standards for classroom acoustics in Malta is recommended. New-build schools require better planning in the design phase to ensure adequate classroom acoustics. A programme of acoustic refurbishment is recommended for primary state school classrooms. Description: M.SC.AUDIOLOGY

The severity of unilateral peripheral vestibular dysfunction and outcome in an adult Maltese cohort

2017-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The severity of unilateral peripheral vestibular dysfunction and outcome in an adult Maltese cohort Abstract: Symptomatic recovery following unilateral peripheral vestibular dysfunction (uPVD) is variable. The aim was to evaluate recovery as judged by the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), clinical dynamic visual acuity test (cDVAT) and the instrumented modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance (ImCTSIB), with respect to the severity of canal paresis in patients with uPVD, seen at the state hospital‟s Dizziness Clinic in Malta. The objectives were to obtain reference values of canal paresis and scores pertaining to the cDVAT, ImCTSIB, and the DHI, and to compare them with those obtained from two groups of patients with uPVD; one group with a canal paresis between 20% to 50% and the other >50%. The study type was causal comparative using a cross-sectional design. A total of 45 subjects were recruited; 29 with uPVD and 16 healthy controls. Those with uPVD were categorised in terms of their degree of canal paresis (mild canal paresis ≥ 20% to 50%, n=16; severe canal paresis >50%, n=13). The DHI, cDVAT and ImCTSIB scores were compared among the three groups. The only significant difference found was that between the control group and the mild and severe canal paresis groups respectively with respect to all DHI scores (p<.05). The total, physical, and functional DHI scores were highest (worst) in the mild canal paresis group, while condition 4 of the ImCTSIB and the horizontal and vertical cDVAT scores were greatest (worst) in the severe canal paresis group. No significant differences were detected using canal paresis cut-off values of 30%, 40%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90%. The findings suggest that the degree of canal paresis might not be a strong prognostic factor. Description: M.SC.AUDIOLOGY

The association between hearing loss and coronary artery bypass grafting

2017-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The association between hearing loss and coronary artery bypass grafting Abstract: Hearing loss has been reported to occur in coronary artery bypass grafting surgery with the use of the cardiopulmonary bypass machine. There is seldom any pre-operative hearing testing before such surgery, and hence, any post-operative hearing loss may go unnoticed. The aim of the study was to investigate whether in the local population undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting in Malta hearing loss is a complication of such surgery. 40 participants having a mean age of 63 years, and were scheduled to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting were recruited using the consecutive sampling technique. Their pre-operative hearing capacity was evaluated using pure-tone audiometry, non-word speech in quiet and in noise speech audiometry, and the self assessment of communication and significant other assessment of communication questionnaires. These tests were then repeated in the immediate post-operative period (approximately 5 days), and five weeks post surgery. With pure-tone audiometry the difference between pre- and post-surgery mean scores for both ears for the 2000 Hz, 4000 Hz, and 8000Hz showed highly significant differences (p = <0.05). The non-word testing similarly portrayed a significant reduction in whole word scoring between pre-operative and post-operative values (p = <0.05). The questionnaires did not portray a worsening in the subjective hearing perception between the pre-operative and the immediate post-operative session, but instead showed a difference (worse hearing capacity perception) between the immediate post-operative session and the five week post-operative session. The study also suggested that mechanical ventilation and the presence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus may contribute to the hearing loss. It is hypothesised that CPB and mechanical ventilation produce noxious effects which target the micro-circulation and the inner hair cells which can produce this hearing loss. Finally it is recommended that pre-operative and post-operative hearing testing is routinely introduced for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting, so that any hearing loss is treated without adverse effects. Description: M.SC.AUDIOLOGY

Constructing professional identities during training : an audiologist’s perspective

2017-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Constructing professional identities during training : an audiologist’s perspective Abstract: With the seemingly emerging need of audiologists in Malta, knowing how professional development is construed during training is essential. The overall intent of this study was to investigate which factors shape professional identity development of upcoming audiologists. It set out to identify the actual factors that promote or hinder professional identity development during training. The study adopted a mixed method design that included a phenomenological approach. . The 12 participants who were recruited were either in-training (N = 6) or had just finished training to become an audiologist (N = 6). The nominal group technique was used to elicit the skills that current in-training audiologists perceived to be important for their professional development. Interviews were later used to explore the variables that influenced in-training audiologists’ professional identity portrayal. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed to analyse the data obtained from the interviews. Three prevalent themes emerging from the gathered data were labelled as: ‘Who I am matters’, ‘A helping hand’ and ‘What influences me’. Results showed that the role of the personal self during professional development was very influential. When academic curricula take note of the trainee’s background, trainees’ professional development could be positively influenced. The practicum during training also influenced trainees’ professional development. In this study, participants denoted positive aspects of their practical experience and improvements that could have been applied to further improve it. Lecturers, clinicians, other professionals and clients that trainees encountered were also reported to play a pivotal role in shaping their professional identities. Recommendations for future improvements should serve as guidelines for prospective academic curricula in order to further enhance professional identity development of their trainees. Further research in this field of study is recommended. Due to the evolving nature of professional identities, there should be further studies, preferably longitudinal ones that attempt to identify other variables that influence professional identity development. Description: M.SC.AUDIOLOGY