think_admin, Author at THINK Magazine

I_compute I_create I_am

Creativity is a quality that we, as humans, think is ours alone. Prof. Georgios N. Yannakakis is creating computers that might have already taken this away from us. Computational creativity is here. His games are helping children be more creative, others to overcome dyslexia, and even combat bullying. Words by Dr Edward Duca.

Placing Cultural Research on the Map

Photo by Elisa von Brockdorff, courtesy of The Valletta 2018 Foundation.

The Valletta 2018 Foundation recently started a five-year research study to evaluate and monitor the European Capital of Culture (ECoC) project in Malta. The process combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect data that will be communicated to the general public and interested stakeholders. This research will provide feedback to help fine-tune or correct the Foundation’s operations. The process aims to provide a local model for research in culture and the creative sector in order to encourage more cultural research after 2018.Continue reading

culture Malta maltese Mediterranean Research review Science society THINK Think Magazine Think Website UM University University of Malta valletta Valletta 2018

The mystery of St Paul’s shipwreck

Malta’s identity is deeply intertwined with St Paul. The Islanders have even named a whole bay after him. However there is no hard evidence that St Paul was actually shipwrecked in this area. Elaine Gerada Gatt investigates. Illustrations by Whitebeard Illustrations.Continue reading

archaeology Malta THINK University of Malta

Science for Maltese Wine

Wine borders on obsession for some, while others call it research. Some drink it, while others burn it. Creative solutions are turning wine and its waste into algae, pharmaceutical products, and electricity.

edward duca Malta mater dei hospital MCAST Mediterranean PV panels renewable energy RNA solar energy University of Malta wine

Rocking the Islands

Debunking the myth: Malta is at no risk from earthquakes. Malta’s seismologists speak up.Continue reading

earthquakes Malta Mediterranean seismic University of Malta

Science Fiction — Mythology of the Future

Science fiction reimagines our future. Sometimes it is inspired by science; sometimes it inspires current scientists. Anna Fava visited Prof. Victor Grech at his home to talk about the mythology of science fiction and his love for Star Trek.Continue reading

Malta myth University of Malta victor grech

Haven’t We Had Enough of Gender Stereotypes?

An essay by linguist Deborah Cameron about gender misconceptions really hit home hard. It made me ask, why do we let gender role restrictions influence our identity. Continue reading

discrimination gender Malta opinion stereotypes University of Malta

Immortalising Heritage

Limestone is precious to Malta. The softness of the stone makes beautiful sculptures but also erodes quickly. Jessica Edwards caught up with Dr Daniel Vella and Prof. Emmanuel Sinagra to find out how limestone and Malta’s heritage can be protected.Continue reading

faculty of science heritage limestone Malta University of Malta

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

Over 60 Best Book of the Year lists, 75 weeks on the New York Best Sellers list, and several prestigious awards, The Immortal life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot is a must read for all. I don’t usually review 4-year old books, but this non-fiction book has it all: race and class issues, betrayal, loss, education and healthcare access, exploitation, and lucidly told science.Continue reading

book review edward duca

Haggis

Haggis is the only game that I rate a round solid 10. I know, it’s probably not good review practice to give your opinion so clearly and obviously at the very beginning, but Haggis is a special game. It’s the only game that I voluntarily own two copies of, just in case something happens to my other one, or the cards just disintegrate after one too many plays. Haggis is that game. Continue reading

board game love University of Malta