https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/332 2026-04-09T11:26:32Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145439 Title: The effect of the Catholic school ethos on students : a case study Abstract: This research examines how a Catholic secondary school communicates and sustains its ethos through the lived experiences of its students. Focusing on St Michael School, administered by the Society of Christian Doctrine, the study examines how its Catholic identity—shaped by the SDC virtues, particularly humility and meekness—is lived and transmitted to students within the school community. A mixed-methods case study design was employed to provide both quantitative breadth and qualitative depth. Data were collected through a comprehensive student questionnaire administered to the entire school population, a semi-structured interview with a member of the school leadership team, and a post-survey student focus group. Statistical analysis of survey data complemented a thematic analysis of interview and focus group responses, identifying key patterns and recurring themes. Findings indicate that St Michael School’s Catholic ethos is communicated through both explicit and implicit dimensions—ritual practice, curriculum, relationships, and leadership witness. Students reported a clear awareness of the school’s Catholic identity, valuing opportunities for religious participation and identifying core Gospel values such as humility, respect, and care as central to their experience. The results also highlight that ethos is most effectively transmitted through teachers’ relational presence, personal example, and pastoral attentiveness. Leadership accessibility and continuous staff formation emerged as essential in ensuring coherence and authenticity between belief and practice. The study concludes that St Michael School exemplifies the Church’s vision of integral human formation, where faith, reason, and culture are harmoniously united. It recommends that sustained investment in educator formation, relational leadership, and ongoing reflection on the SDC charism remain central to nurturing a living and credible Catholic identity in a changing educational context. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145437 Title: Synodality as an institution and instrument in the post-Vatican II Papal Magisterium Abstract: This dissertation outlines a comprehensive research plan to investigate the concept of ‘Synodality’, both as an institution and an instrument in the Latin tradition in the post-Vatican II Church. The study aims to analyse how the concept has developed throughout this period, particularly through the creation of the institution of the ‘Synod of Bishops’, and the transformation in the understanding of diocesan synods, at the time of Vatican II and its aftermath. It will also examine its subsequent applications during the pontificates of Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis. This will demonstrate how ‘synodality’ can be transformed from merely being an institution to serving as an effective ecclesiological instrument for illuminating pastoral praxis at the diocesan level in a fluid and post-Christian Western society. In considering the history of this institution, together with the extensive literature currently accompanying the Synod on Synodality, the present study will seek to present a coherent summary of the different views espoused by the Popes since Paul VI, to present the application of a synodal outlook in a manner that it can enlighten pastoral practice by the simple faithful and their shepherds on the parochial level. Description: S.Th.L.(Melit.) 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145401 Title: Electronic tagging and tracking of dementia patients : ethical concerns Abstract: Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder which affects millions of individuals worldwide. This disorder presents significant challenges for affected patients, and also for families, caregivers and healthcare systems. Patients suffering from this condition often experience disorientation and wandering behaviour, which could put them at risk of harm, injury, or death. Technological solutions in response to these risks include electronic tracking and tagging devices. These tools have been introduced in various institutions as potential solutions for safeguarding individuals affected by this disorder. Such devices while providing reassurance to caregivers and reduce logistical and safety concerns, they also raise pressing ethical questions regarding autonomy, dignity, privacy, human rights, and the potential for discrimination and stereotyping. This dissertation aims to identify various types of electronic tagging and tracking devices used internationally, and to examine critically the ethical implications of using electronic tagging and tracking devices in dementia care, in the context of Malta. This research aims to balance the evaluation of potential benefits, including enhanced safety, reduced caregiver burden, and practical management of wandering behaviour, against significant concerns, including infringement upon freedom of movement and privacy, threats to personal dignity, and the risk of stereotyping or discrimination. The key guiding questions include: Does tagging and tracking affect human rights, related to freedom of movement, personhood and human safety? What are the benefits and detriments of human electronic tagging and tracking? Would the use of electronic tagging and tracking of dementia sufferers help to increase their safety? With the use of electronic tagging and tracking of individuals who suffer from dementia, would primary care givers and legal guardians feel more at ease when caring for these individuals and reassured should any issues arise? Would electronic tagging and tracking of individuals who suffer from dementia be discriminatory towards these individuals? Would electronic tagging and tracking of individuals who suffer from dementia bring about stereotyping of these individuals? To what extent would the use of human tagging and tracking be a viable solution to combat issues arising from wandering behaviour of the older person living with dementia? This study adopts a qualitative research methodology, relying primarily on secondary data sources such as peer-reviewed journals, books, policy reports, legal documents, and case studies. The dissertation is organised into three substantive chapters. The first chapter identifies the types of electronic tagging and tracking devices, their applications and benefits, situating them within both Maltese and international contexts and illustrating real-world consequences of wandering behaviour. The second chapter addresses legal considerations, including informed consent in the context of diminished capacity, confidentiality, and compliance with data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The third chapter engages in sustained ethical analysis, critically examining autonomy, dignity, wellbeing, safety, and the risks of stereotyping and discrimination. The conclusion summarises key findings, acknowledges limitations, and identifies gaps for future research. By undertaking this critical and balanced analysis, the dissertation aims to contribute meaningfully to contemporary bioethical discourse on the integration of emerging technologies in healthcare, specifically within dementia care. It seeks to clarify whether electronic tagging and tracking can be justified as both a practical and ethical means of safeguarding vulnerable individuals with dementia, while simultaneously respecting their fundamental human rights. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145314 Title: Religion in contemporary society : identity, culture and public life Authors: Berry, John Anthony Abstract: In a historical moment marked by cultural pluralisation, social fragmentation, and rapid technological transformation, the relationship between religion and contemporary society remains both unavoidable and deeply contested. Far from receding into private sentiment or residual tradition, religion continues to shape public imaginaries, ethical debates, and forms of collective belonging. This volume, Religion in Contemporary Society: Identity, Culture and Public Life, proceeds from the conviction that religion endures not merely as a remnant of the past, but as a dynamic force that reconfigures itself in dialogue with changing social, political, and cultural contexts. The contributions gathered here interrogate religion’s capacity to mediate difference, articulate meaning, and sustain communal life amid plural and often polarised conditions. [extract] 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z