Award Purpose and Mindset
Module Description
This opening module introduces participants to the purpose, structure, and expectations of this award. It frames cultural integration as a practical, two-way process involving both the newcomer and Maltese society. Learners are introduced to the key values of the award: mutual respect, curiosity, and openness. The module provides an overview of the award, introduces assessment expectations, and supports learners in understanding cultural differences in daily and professional life in Malta.
Entry Requirement
Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry requirements:
(a) Status: Foreigners residing in or planning to reside in Malta, with a valid or pending residence permit, or in the process of applying for a Single Permit or other relevant permit under Maltese and EU law.
(b) Language: Functional proficiency in English since all instruction is delivered in English. No formal English language qualification is required, but applicants are expected to follow and participate in English-medium instruction.
(c) Qualifications: No prior formal qualifications are required. The award is open to adults from all educational backgrounds.
(d) Digital Competences: Basic ability to use a smartphone or computer for communication purposes (e.g., email, messaging, accessing online resources) is desirable but not mandatory. Learners requiring additional digital support will be accommodated.
No prior knowledge of Maltese language, law or culture is assumed or required.
Target Audience
- This award targets foreign individuals who would like to undergo a cultural integration short course.
Career Paths
- This award does not lead to a warranted profession or regulated occupation. It is designed to support the social, civic and professional integration of foreigners residing in or relocating to Malta, and is directly relevant to occupations and roles in which cultural competence, workplace integration and civic awareness are valued. These include, but are not limited to: administrative roles in public and private sector entities employing international staff; community liaison and integration support roles; roles within NGOs, social services and community organisations working with migrant populations; hospitality, tourism and customer-facing roles requiring intercultural communication skills. The award is complementary to, but does not replace, any specific National Occupational Standard (NOS) currently listed on the Malta Qualifications Database (MQD). No specific NOS directly maps to the cultural integration domain at this level; however, the award aligns with the spirit of the European Key Competences framework, particularly in the areas of civic competence, cultural awareness, and personal, social and learning-to-learn competence.
Assessment
The recommended assessment tasks are:
- Personal Background Questionnaire (50%): Learners respond to guided questions about their cultural background, expectations, and initial observations of Malta. The structured tool is completed individually and submitted via the VLE. Assessed on completeness of responses, accurate use of basic terminology, and clear description of personal background and expectations.
- Active Participation in Group Activity (50%): Assessed by the tutor during the contact session based on participation in the guided cultural comparison task and respectful engagement with peers.
Learning Outcomes
Competences
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Carry out assigned tasks and learning activities under the direction and guidance of the tutor.
- Follow attendance requirements and class rules with some degree of independence, seeking tutor support when needed.
- Use resources and information provided to complete structured tasks, with support available from tutors and peers.
Knowledge
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- Familiarise oneself with the purpose, structure, and intended learning outcomes of the award.
- Comprehend the basic concept of cultural integration as a two-way process and how it differs from isolation or assimilation.
- Understand the core values of the award: mutual respect, curiosity, empathy, and openness.
- Describe basic facts about Maltese culture and society and why cultural awareness matters for daily life in Malta.
- Interpret how people’s cultural background and daily habits can differ and why this is relevant to life in Malta.
Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Outline simple similarities and differences between their own cultural background and Maltese customs and norms.
- Participate in guided group discussions and activities related to life and culture in Malta.
- Complete a structured observation worksheet provided by the tutor to record one cultural difference noticed during the session and note what was learned about it.
Module-Specific Learner Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to
- List and describe basic similarities and differences between their own cultural practices and common Maltese customs, using examples from materials.
- Identify examples of positive cultural integration in Malta.
- Communicate personal expectations, experiences, and concerns about the integration process in a respectful group setting.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to:
- Access and navigate the VLE to download resources, submit assignments, and engage with course materials.
- Use basic digital communication tools (email, WhatsApp, online forms) to access public services and participate in communications.
Use online public information platforms (government portals, transport apps, healthcare services) to locate practical information relevant to daily life in Malta.