The physical and psychological health impact of remote working amongst educators in Malta

Abstract

The significant rise in remote work activity amongst educators and the emergence of new risks deriving from the usage of new technologies have drastically altered the way educators perform their duties, implicating new hazards and risks for their physical and psychological health, and wellbeing of educators whilst performing their duties. This dissertation investigates remote work activity practices executed by educators in Malta in different educational institutions and their subsequent physical and psychological health effects implications. The research adopts a quantitative approach, utilising a survey questionnaire to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current situation in the educational sector in Malta in respect of remote works activity, aiming to collect data on various physical and psychological health indicators, remote works practices and institutional interventions. The data obtained is analysed using a statistical method to identify the incidence of health and safety issues and any correlations with factors such as gender, training and information provision, DSE provision from the respective institutions, work life balance and issues to disconnect from work due to remote working. Results indicate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder injuries and psychosocial issues amongst educators performing remote work activities, attributed to inadequate ergonomics, lack of support from their institutions and blurred boundaries between work and personal life. The dissertation discusses the implications of these findings and provides a set of recommendations to ultimately improve the existing remote work activity practices amongst educators in Malta, consequently, to improve occupational health and safety standards in the educational sector in the context of remote working activities. Additionally, the study advocates further improvement and actions to foster a supportive remote working environment to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries and psychosocial setbacks. In conclusion this research contributes to better understand educators’ perspectives in regards of remote work activity, offering valuable insights for educational institutions aiming to improve the wellbeing and effectiveness of educators practicing remotely.