https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1044 Fri, 28 Aug 2026 17:59:30 GMT 2026-08-28T17:59:30Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148635 Title: Teaching students with disabilities in post-secondary institutions : educators’ perceptions Abstract: The right of students with disabilities to pursue higher education is being increasingly recognised while simultaneously being regarded as a new challenge. This study explored the perceptions of educators teaching students with disabilities in post-secondary institutions in Malta, using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. In the first phase, a quantitative survey (n= 150) was conducted to obtain a general understanding of educators’ perceptions, strategies used, and training and support needs. In the second phase, ten educators participated in semi-structured interviews: six from academic institutions, and four from vocational institutions. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS, while qualitative data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and NVivo software. The results from both phases were integrated with the aim of answering the research question. Survey data indicated significant positive correlations between the three generated educator perception scales: positive attitude towards teaching students with disabilities; sufficient training and support; and extensive and effective use of different strategies. Interview data confirmed and supplemented the survey data. Four main qualitative themes were identified: educators embraced a generally positive attitude towards students with disabilities; navigating practical challenges; educators used various strategies to enable student participation; and calls for improvement of a more inclusive system. Educators in academic institutions reported more challenges and less support compared to those in vocational institutions. The findings call for several systemic changes, including improved communication and more seamless transitions to post-secondary education; more accessible institutional support and resources; and practical and tailor-made training for educators. Description: M.Sc.(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148635 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147099 Title: Exploring the impact of activism on the psychological wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ activists Abstract: This study explores how queer activists in Malta perceive the impact of their activism within LGBTIQ+ social movement organisations (SMOs) on their psychological wellbeing, and how these experiences influence their motivation to sustain engagement in activism. Employing a qualitative research design, seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with self-identifying queer activists involved in Maltese LGBTIQ+ SMOs. Reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) revealed complex psychosocial dynamics encompassing both positive and negative effects of queer activism. Activists in this study described cyclical processes through which they developed activist identities alongside queer and other identities, as well as becoming wounded healers. Other key themes included learning as an ongoing process, and confronting stigma, systemic oppression, and burnout. The findings underscore the dual nature of activism, in that it promotes psychological wellbeing through various dimensions, while causing psychological strain. Thus, this research highlights the importance of resilience, social support, and self-care practices in sustaining activists’ wellbeing and motivation within a context of hyper-personalised politics and strong communal ties. By addressing gaps in the literature, this dissertation advances understanding of the interplay between activism, psychological wellbeing, and motivation in queer communities, offering valuable insights for supporting activist health in small, interconnected social settings. Description: H.Dip.(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147099 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146013 Title: Evaluating the effects of physical activity on the health and well-being of adults Abstract: This dissertation investigates how physical activity affects adults’ health and well-being. The study aims to assess the correlation between physical activity levels and several health-related factors, such as mental health, overall quality of life, and health perception. A cross-sectional, quantitative design was used on a random sample of participants aged 18 to 60. These latter participants complete an online questionnaire, which evaluates health views, well-being, goal setting, motivational factors, obstacles to physical activity, social support, and physical activity habits. The researcher analysed responses from 40 to 50 participants using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science) software and applied descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, such as t-test and Pearson correlation. Description: B.Psy.(Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146013 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146012 Title: The influence of social media on young adults’ perceptions of body image Abstract: This dissertation focuses on the effects of social media on young adults’ body image. This study underscores how most young adults are affected by comparing and internalising content seen on social media. Furthermore, it highlights how social media literacy and healthy coping mechanisms can be used as a tool to mitigate body image issues in young adults. A qualitative approach was employed to conduct this study. A total of six in-person interviews were carried out in December 2024, with participants aged 18-25. Furthermore, Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to interpret the participants’ verbal accounts and to gain a deeper understanding of their lived experiences. The findings of this study highlight that while all participants are aware of the unrealistic standards present on social media, several nonetheless report being negatively affected by them. Furthermore, this study also highlights how most participants dealt with greater body image issues when they were going through puberty, due to the drastic changes they experienced at the time. Description: B.Psy.(Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146012 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z