https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/8930 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 03:34:49 GMT 2026-04-17T03:34:49Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9450 Title: Factors affecting attitudes towards playing free-to-play digital casual/social games : a study among university students Abstract: Insight into the mind of consumers is essential in a rapidly expanding and evolving market such as that of digital games. The free-to-play business model in particular has taken advantage of recent technology advancements in social networking sites and mobile devices spurring the introduction of new genres such as digital casual/social games available to play for free with an option of in-app purchases in order to generate revenue. Digital casual/social games are developed for the mass consumer, thus it becomes even more vital to understand who plays these games and the reasons why. This study focuses on the aforementioned games that may be accessed through the social networking site Facebook, as well as mobile devices. The research aim is to investigate attitudes towards playing casual/social games by measuring four constructs, which are based on perception and motivation. An online survey conducted in the course of this study yielded 204 valid responses and results indicate that whilst technology usage motivation has no affect on player attitudes, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness and flow have a statistically significant and direct affect on attitudes towards playing casual/social games. The findings suggest that the constructs supported in this study should be taken into consideration in order to increase the lifetime value of customers and keep them engaged for longer, since these foster positives attitudes which in turn shape behaviour through intentions. Implications of findings and recommendations for future research are considered. Description: B.COMMS.(HONS) Thu, 01 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9450 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9250 Title: The possibilities of prison theatre in Malta in the light of applied theatre research Abstract: In 2012 a group of inmates discovered the power of their voice through When You Hear My Voice, a theatre and literacy project within YOURS1, at Corradino Correctional Facility. Despite the positive effects of this project, to date, these were not thoroughly analysed and no further programmes followed. This study will provide such an analysis and suggest ways in which the positive effects can be amplified in the future. Furthermore it will challenge and interpret the false perception by the general public that this project was not successful. Grounding the observations in theoretical knowledge and combining these with primary research on the local prison and theatre scene, the study will suggest objectives and criteria for success. The study concludes that despite having non-quantifiable criteria for success, a permanent arts programme leading to reformative justice is possible. Solutions on how a programmes s can be established will also be highlighted. Description: B.COMMS.(HONS) Thu, 01 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9250 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9249 Title: Proxemics in the virtual age : potential proxemics changes because of the shift from a physical to a virtual context Abstract: In light of an increase in the use of new media for communication, this study investigates whether elements from the theories of proxemics, normally based on communication in a physical context, also apply to the virtual plane. It also analyses changes may have incurred in the process. A qualitative approach was used to analyse the underlying research question. Five focus groups were held, formed according to participants’ age and usage of new media. A thematic analysis of the transcribed text of the focus groups was then examined to analyse the data and draw conclusions. These results indicate that participants regard communication in a physical context as superior, with most participants preferring to disclose important information in a physical context so as to incorporate non-verbal communication. Furthermore, they also affirmed that distance is still a crucial consideration for communication, even in a virtual context. However, while non-verbal communication is regarded as highly significant on a physical plane, few participants discuss how they in turn attempt to emulate such actions in a virtual context. Nonetheless, a number of elements pertaining to the theories of proxemics are noted as still being relevant in light of a virtual context. This mainly involves value given to distance and invasion of personal space. Description: B.COMMS.(HONS) Thu, 01 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9249 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9248 Title: The role of typeface selection and design in magazine cover copy Abstract: This study examined the function of typeface selection and design in magazine cover copy, focusing primarily on the changes that can be made and participant’s reactions and thoughts instigated when different typefaces are used. A specific interest in tone of voice that can be portrayed by the typefaces used on a magazine cover is present. The research methodology included interviews with design professionals as well as focus groups with those not within the profession, in order to analyse and compare the answers received from both. Openended questions were used in both cases. The data provided evidence that designers do attribute importance to the role of typefaces in conveying tone of voice, and also that viewers of magazines are aware of typefaces used on magazine covers, and do feel that tone of voice can be portrayed through the use of different typefaces used. Description: B.COMMS.(HONS) Thu, 01 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/9248 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z