University of Malta Survey Highlights How Social Media Hinders Educational Development in Malta

Key Takeaways From the State of the Nation Survey

The recent State of the Nation Survey, hosted by the University of Malta and presented under the patronage of President M. Spiteri Debono, underscored a critical issue: social media is creating serious challenges that are negatively impacting educational development across the Maltese population. Below, we unpack the findings, explore their implications for students, educators, and policymakers, and offer concrete steps to mitigate the adverse effects.

Social Media Usage Patterns and Their Consequences

Almost 80 % of respondents who use social media report accessing news and content simultaneously on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. This multimedia consumption pattern brings several risks:

• Time Dilution: The split focus between platforms reduces the time available for deep learning and study.
• Content Quality: Algorithms prioritize engagement over accuracy, exposing users to misinformation that may shape misconceptions about academic subjects.
• Reduced Family Interaction: Constant connectivity can erode face‑to‑face communication, which the survey identifies as the primary source of education after formal schooling.

Impacts on Cognitive Skills

The survey notes a growing tendency toward short‑form thinking—a tendency that mirrors the brief attention spans cultivated by scrolling feeds. This affects critical thinking, problem‑solving, and the capacity to engage in sustained analytical work. When students jump from one clip to the next, they miss the opportunity to practice reflection and thorough analysis—skills that universities and employers increasingly demand.

The Role of Family and Culture in Learning

Participants confirmed that family remains the most important education provider. Yet, the introduction of time‑consuming social media threatens to interrupt this familial transmission of values and knowledge. Cultural activities such as village feasts and the Good Friday procession—deeply embedded in Malta’s heritage—continue to be valued, but their time is squeezed by screen usage.

Strategies for Strengthening Family‑Based Education

• Allocate “tech‑free” periods during family meals and gatherings.
• Organise educational outings that replace the time otherwise spent online.
• Encourage family discussions about academic topics to reinforce learning outside the classroom.

Bullying and Digital Safety

Data reveals that 57 % of those aged 16‑25 experienced bullying via social media. This environment not only discourages learning but also undermines mental well‑being, which is essential for academic success.

Actionable Measures for Schools and Parents

1. Integrate digital citizenship modules into curricula that cover harassment, digital consent, and respectful online behaviour.
2. Set up anonymous reporting channels for students to flag bullying incidents.
3. Facilitate support groups where victims can speak openly and receive counseling.

Artificial Intelligence: A Double‑Edged Sword

While AI offers tools for personalised learning, the survey warns that rapid technological progress outpaces the national curriculum. Without structured guidance, students may become overreliant on AI for answering rather than for reasoning.

Embedding AI Literacy Early

• Introduce AI‑aware modules in high‑school syllabi that emphasise critical evaluation of AI outputs.
• Organise workshops in partnership with the University of Malta’s Business & Enterprise Management department, highlighting ethical use and cognitive benefits.
• Encourage projects where students build and test their own simple AI models, thereby learning the underlying logic.

Policy Recommendations for a Safer Digital Learning Ecosystem

To align with the survey’s findings, policymakers should adopt a multi‑layered approach:

1. Digital Use Guidelines for Educational Institutions: Set clear policies limiting non‑academic social media usage during peak study periods.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch initiatives that promote media literacy, using case studies from the survey to illustrate real‑world consequences.
3. Curriculum Enhancement: Update the national syllabus to include critical media analysis, ensuring students can differentiate credible sources from sensational content.

Empowering Students to Choose Mindful Media Habits

Student self‑regulation is pivotal. By adopting simple habits, learners can regain control over their digital consumption while boosting academic performance.

• Create a study schedule that blocks out social media during homework sessions.
• Use “focus” features on smartphones to monitor and limit app usage.
• Exchange learning insights with peers through moderated discussion groups, not open social feeds.

Resources for Students

The University of Malta offers a range of support services:

• Online tutorials on research skills and source evaluation.
• Counselling services to address stress related to digital overload.
• Peer‑led study circles that actively discourage social media intrusion.

Conclusion: Balancing Connectivity with Quality Learning

Social media will continue to be a dominant force in how Maltese youth engage with information. However, the State of the Nation Survey demonstrates that unchecked usage hampers critical thinking, family education, and mental health. By implementing the strategies outlined above—family scheduling, digital citizenship education, AI literacy, and robust policy frameworks—students and educators can turn the tide and foster an environment where digital tools complement, rather than compromise, educational development.

For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the survey’s methodology and results, the full report is available on the University of Malta website.

Ready to take the next step in shaping Malta’s educational future? Submit your application to the University of Malta today and align yourself with a community dedicated to evidence‑based learning. If you’re a student or educator seeking resources, explore the University’s course offerings that cover digital literacy and critical media analysis. Have questions about the survey findings? Contact our research team and start a dialogue about improving educational outcomes in our society.