https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/4761 2026-06-17T02:07:57Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147472 Title: Educational experiments in 360º environments with cognitive neuroscience tools : a bibliometric and methodological perspective Authors: Duda, Jarosław Abstract: PURPOSE: The purpose of this paper is to provide both a bibliometric and methodological overview of research combining 360-degree images and videos with cognitive neuroscience tools. The article also aims to propose a practical framework for designing and implementing experiments conducted in desktop-based virtual environments (DT VR), offering an alternative to traditional head-mounted display (HMD) VR systems.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The study consists of two complementary components. First, a bibliometric exploration of existing literature was conducted across major academic databases using keywords related to 360-degree media, virtual reality, eye tracking, EEG and GSR methods. Second, the paper presents a methodological model for developing experiments using game-engine-based environments, detailing technical aspects such as mapping 360º textures, camera placement, transition logic between virtual spheres, data acquisition for eye tracking, and the use of AI-driven object detection to support data annotation. The methodological part focuses specifically on DT VR research setups.; FINDINGS: The bibliometric review confirms that the use of 360-degree images and videos in cognitive neuroscience research is growing rapidly and is being applied across several domains, including perception, spatial orientation, emotional analysis and education. The methodological analysis demonstrates that DT VR can serve as a viable and less intrusive alternative to HMD VR, particularly when integrating measurement devices such as EEG and GSR. Furthermore, the study outlines how gaze data from a 2D eye tracker can be accurately transferred into a 3D spherical environment, and highlights the potential of AI-based object detection to streamline annotation processes.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The proposed methodological framework provides researchers with clear guidelines for constructing, managing and analysing experiments based on 360-degree content. The paper may support scholars planning to integrate VR-like experimental conditions without the need for HMD equipment, reducing participant discomfort and lowering technical barriers. The guidelines are also relevant for educational and behavioural research using immersive but non-ambulatory virtual environments.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This article uniquely combines a bibliometric analysis with a comprehensive methodological workflow for DT VR studies employing 360-degree media and cognitive neuroscience tools. The dual perspective fills a gap in the existing literature, which largely focuses on fully immersive VR setups and offers limited methodological detail for screen-based environments. The paper contributes practical, replicable guidelines that can enhance the design and execution of future experimental research. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147470 Title: Disciplinary differences in students’ attitudes toward artificial intelligence in higher education : a comparative mixed-methods study Authors: Miluniec, Agnieszka Zofia; Miciuła, Ireneusz; Osmycki, Maciej Abstract: PURPOSE: Recent expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) in universities has amplified the need to understand how students from different academic fields perceive its benefits, risks, and implications for learning. This study examines discipline-specific differences in attitudes toward AI among students of Business Informatics, Public Relations and Public Management, and Fine Arts and Design. It focuses on four core dimensions identified in recent literature: adaptive learning support and personalization, ethical considerations, issues of equity and inclusion, pedagogical support and the role of teacher.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A mixed-methods design was applied, combining quantitative Likert-scale questions with qualitative open-ended responses. The sample consisted of 165 students from two higher-education institutions. The survey captured experiences with AI tools, perceived opportunities and risks, and expectations regarding the role of educators. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively and comparatively across disciplines, while qualitative data provided contextualized interpretations of attitudes and concerns.; FINDINGS: Across all groups, students recognized the value of AI-supported learning, particularly in relation to personalized feedback, efficiency, and skill development. However, clear disciplinary patterns emerged. Business Informatics students emphasized analytical and technical usefulness; Public Relations and Management students foregrounded ethical communication and institutional responsibility; and Fine Arts students expressed heightened concerns over authorship, creativity, and data protection. Ethical apprehensions – especially privacy, algorithmic bias, and transparency—were present across all groups but most pronounced in artistic disciplines. Students consistently affirmed the need for human oversight and rejected fully automated instruction, supporting hybrid human-AI models that preserve interaction and mentorship. The findings suggest that AI adoption strategies should be discipline-sensitive and aligned with pedagogical expectations. Universities should prioritize transparent ethical frameworks, strengthen digital literacy, and ensure equal access to AI tools.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Educators may benefit from integrating AI in ways that augment, rather than replace, human guidance, with particular attention to creativity-based learning environments.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This study contributes novel comparative evidence showing how disciplinary cultures shape students’ perceptions of AI. It fills a gap in existing research, which has largely examined student populations as homogeneous groups. By highlighting differences across technical, managerial, and artistic fields, the study offers nuanced insights for policy design, curriculum development, and responsible AI integration in higher education. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147403 Title: Nonlinearity, outliers and reference market depth : risk factors in searching for the relationship between real estate prices and airport noise Authors: Batóg, Jacek; Foryś, Iwona Abstract: PURPOSE: The primary objective of this study was to verify the hypothesis of nonlinearity in the relationship between noise levels and unit prices of single-family homes in the Restricted Use Area of Warsaw Chopin Airport. Furthermore, an endeavour was made to ascertain the benchmark for the depth of the reference market. The impact of sample heterogeneity and the significance of outliers for estimation results were examined.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A variety of methodologies were employed, including general linear models, methods for identifying outliers, and optimisation-based clustering.; FINDINGS: The study's findings corroborated the deleterious effect of elevated aircraft noise levels on property transaction values, concomitantly emphasizing the non-linear nature of this effect. It has been demonstrated that as the distance of a property from the center of the airport runway increases, the discrepancy in unit prices between properties located inside and outside the Restricted Use Area decreases. It has been demonstrated that the presence of unconventional observations can have a detrimental effect on the quality of the resulting models.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings have important planning and policy implications. It is submitted that they can serve as a basis for defining restricted use zones, developing compensation mechanisms, and designing spatial planning principles for residential areas located near airports. These actions are consistent with the objectives of Directive 2002/49/EC on the assessment and management of environmental noise, which underscores the necessity of incorporating noise protection measures into urban and transport policies. Furthermore, the findings emphasise the risk dimension associated with residing or investing in areas exposed to elevated levels of aircraft noise. From the perspective of investors and local governments, this risk is manifested in market volatility, reduced liquidity, and the necessity for risk mitigation strategies.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The study was based on unique data gathered as part of projects carried out on behalf of the largest Polish airports between 2008 and 2023. Another significant innovation was the utilisation of cluster analysis to enhance the homogeneity of the research sample. However, the greatest added value was the estimation of the maximum depth of the reference market, i.e. the area with an acceptable noise level from which transactions used in comparative analyses may originate, and the confirmation of the non-linear impact of noise levels on the unit price of properties located in Restricted Use Areas. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147383 Title: Public expenditure on the healthcare sector in an ageing society of the European Union Authors: Niemcewicz, Piotr; Ziółkowska, Julia Abstract: PURPOSE: This research analyses regional differences in public health spending in European Union countries, focusing on the impact of an ageing population. By examining Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western Europe, it assesses how demographic trends and investments in prevention influence health financing and system efficiency. The main objective is to identify regional inequalities and their implications for EU health policy.; DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A quantitative approach was applied using data from Eurostat, the World Health Organisation, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Key indicators, including the share of the population aged 65+, per capita health expenditure, and the proportion of preventive care in total spending, were analysed. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Student's t-test were used to evaluate regional differences and relationships between variables.; FINDINGS: The analysis reveals significant disparities in health spending across EU regions. Northern Europe reports the highest per capita expenditure and the largest share of preventive care, indicating a proactive approach to ageing populations. In contrast, Southern and Eastern Europe face financial constraints and lower investment in prevention, both of which affect system efficiency. Correlation analysis confirms a strong positive relationship between preventive care spending and per capita health expenditure. The Student's t-test results show no statistically significant differences in spending levels between regions, suggesting that EU policies promote financial cohesion in healthcare.; PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The study underscores the need to increase investment in preventive care, particularly in underfunded regions, to improve healthcare efficiency. Digital health solutions, including telemedicine, can enhance access to medical services and optimise resource allocation. Additionally, targeted EU financial support and policy adjustments can help mitigate regional disparities in healthcare access.; ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This research provides a comparative analysis of health system financing across EU regions in the context of demographic ageing. It highlights the role of preventive healthcare spending in improving system efficiency and offers policy recommendations to reduce regional inequalities. The findings provide practical insights for policymakers seeking to develop more sustainable and equitable health strategies. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z