Investigating Myths and Misconceptions Within the Maltese Primary School Setting

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62695/IWAZ9789

Keywords:

Educational Myths, Evidence-Based Education, Learning Styles, Bilingualism, Digital Learners, Homework

Abstract

Educational myths occur when evidence-based research does not confirm common beliefs about learning and teaching methodology. On the other hand, educational misconceptions are beliefs which have been debunked by research but are still being used in a classroom setting. This research aims to investigate the beliefs of Maltese primary school educators concerning the main educational myths and misconceptions. The researcher seeks to provide a perspective of the local educators in relation to common educational myths and how these beliefs could infiltrate the Maltese educational system. A quantitative explorative design was utilised to evaluate the beliefs of Maltese primary school educators concerning four areas: Learning Styles, Bilingualism, Digital Learners and Homework. One hundred and seventy-nine educators responded to an online questionnaire. The researcher used descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse the data. Results indicate that primary school educators believe in myths related to learning styles the most, followed by misconceptions about homework provision. Chi-square analysis revealed that myths were widespread throughout different cohorts, where no difference between educators’ roles and level of education could be identified; however, some differences between sectors could be identified.

Author Biography

Loredana Muscat, Institute for Education

Loredana Muscat is a lecturer at the Institute for Education, Malta. She received her Doctorate degree in Communication Therapy from the University of Malta and holds a Master’s degree in Education in Learning Difficulties and Disabilities from the University of Birmingham. Her research interests include diversity in education and inclusion practices concerning individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities.

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Published

16-11-2023

How to Cite

Muscat, L. (2023). Investigating Myths and Misconceptions Within the Maltese Primary School Setting. Malta Journal of Education, 4(2), 67–97. https://doi.org/10.62695/IWAZ9789

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