iPURSE 2023

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://ir.lib.pdn.ac.lk/handle/20.500.14444/33

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Digital immigrants: how to survive in an open and distance learning environment (A semi-structured literature review)
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Sandamali, K.A.D.
Digital immigrants, who were not born in a digital world, face a challenge in adapting to the present digitalized learning environment. It is more challenging for them to survive in an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) environment, which is commonly utilized in every national university in the post-Covid 19 era. Therefore, it is crucial for both teachers and digital immigrant students in higher education to understand emerging challenges in their learning environments and how to overcome those challenges. This study was conducted as a semi-structured literature review based on two objectives: to examine the challenges faced by digital immigrants in an ODL environment and to investigate strategies to mitigate those challenges and become active learners. After formulating the research objectives, the literature was examined using key words such as digital immigrants, higher education, open and distance learning, and challenges faced by digital immigrants. 66 articles were identified under the process of identification which was done through database searching. 20 articles were included in this review after excluding the articles that are not relevant to the present research scope. Most of the literature was presented in online journals and after a thorough investigation, analysis, synthesis and disseminating the findings were done. The data gathered through the systematic review was analyzed under two themes (Challenges faced by Digital Immigrants in an ODL environment & Strategies to mitigate Challenges faced by Digital Immigrants in an ODL environment) utilizing the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study revealed communication issues, lack of interaction, lack of confidence, lack of technological competency, and lack of interest as the student related challenges that are faced by digital immigrants. Connectivity issues and teacher related issues also stand as challenges for digital immigrants. Using blended learning approaches instead of limiting to online modes, utilizing social network tools, strengthening their own skills such as emotional intelligence and critical thinking, and creating authentic learning situations to relate their own experience to learning will support to mitigate the afore-mentioned challenges. Based on the research findings, it is crucial to identify the nature of the learning styles of digital immigrants and their expectations towards learning methods when facilitating them in an ODL environment. Using effective blended learning methods and providing continuous guidance with authentic examples will enable them to survive in their learning journey within the ODL environment.
Exploring fertility dynamics: a comparative analysis of ethnic groups in segregated and integrated living spaces in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Masakorala, P.P.
There is a social claim that the fertility of minority ethnic groups is increasing at a rate greater than that of the majority Sinhalese in Sri Lanka. Addressing this issue is important because it affects the ethnic integrity of the society. Despite there being substantial studies on fertility in Sri Lanka, previous research has not looked into the spatial and ethnic differences of fertility, despite its significance. This research aims to analyze ethnic fertility differences from a spatial perspective. The data was collected from 480 women aged 18 to 81, spanning three generations where different ethnic groups liveintegrated and different ethnic groups live segregated. Summarizing the study's results, it can be concluded that ethnic differencesin fertility vary according to spatial context. In integrated spaces, there are no significant ethnic differences in fertility. However, ethnic differences in fertility becomes distinct when ethnic groups live in segregated areas. Sinhala women, compared to minorities, exhibit significantly lower levels of fertility when living in segregated environments. Previous studies have also reported a decreasing number of childbirths among Sinhalese over the past several decades, with no underlying reasons identified. Moor women, on the other hand, have the highest level of fertility, compared to Sinhala women. Factorssuch as higher fertility levels among the Moors and deliberate avoidance of family planning due to community pressures, as highlighted by community leaders, are crucial contributors to high fertility among the Moors. It is important to note that this difference may not persist into the future, as it is primarily present among older generations of different ethnicities and not as prominent among the younger generation. As a result, it can be inferred that ethnic differences in fertility will likely diminish in the country. However, the level of fertility has transitioned from below to above replacement level across all ethnic groups in each space. Thus, it is recommended that further studies be conducted with a theoretical framework rooted in ethno-nationalism and majority- minority concepts.
Effectiveness of traditional and skills-oriented teaching to enhance generic skills in Chemistry in junior secondary schools: a case study in Central Province, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Balasritharan, K.; Jayasundera, A. C. A.; Chandrasena, W. D.
In the teaching-learning process, assessments have become an essential key topic. It is very important to revisit the instructional and assessment systems from the 21st century perspective as it demands real-world learning with skills as learning outcomes. This study examines the effectiveness of traditional teaching and assessment versus skills-oriented instruction and assessment in enhancing generic skills in learning Chemistry in junior secondary schools in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. This is an experimental study employing a mixed methods approach. Two sub-units from the Grade Seven Science curriculum were selected for instruction. Nine schools were selected from the Central Province with a sample size of 636 students by convenience sampling. Two parallel classes of Grade Seven in each school were selected. A Pre-test was administered to both classes to ensure comparability of the groups. One class was considered as a control group and the other class as an experiment group. In the 2nd sub-unit these groups were interchanged. The first lesson was conducted using a traditional method for the control group, while using a skills-oriented instructional and assessment method for the experimental group. The parallel classes were switched over in the second lesson employing the same teachers. After the teaching-learning process, post-tests were administered to both groups for both lessons. While conducting both traditional and skills-oriented learning, generic skills were observed by the researcher with the help of three other teachers with scoring rubrics. The difference between the mean scores of the pre-tests, the post-test, and the generic skill test were compared. According to the results, skills-oriented groups showed significantly higher performance than the traditional group. Furthermore, the observational data analysis demonstrated that the students of the skills-oriented instructional group demonstrated better orientation to real life situations. The findings from focus group discussions with students and teachers revealed that the skills-oriented instructional and assessment cultivate much higher generic skills than traditional instruction and assessment. Thus, it is concluded that the skills-oriented instruction and assessment methods could be successfully applied for conceptualization developing generic skills in Grade Seven Science in the selected schools.
An investigation on non-linguistic cognitive benefits of bilingual adolescents to introduce an appropriate CLIL model for the bilingual education programme in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Kalegana, K.K.C.S.; Ekanayake, E.M.P.C.S.
Bilingualism is the ability of the user to use two languages for communication. Self-Efficacy is described as a Non-Linguistic Cognitive benefit of being Bilingual. Adolescence is the age that an individual realizes the value of use of English as a connecting language in communication. In past studies, since it is revealed that Early Bilingualism gives more cognitive benefits, a hypothesis was tested in this research and the Academic Self Efficacy levels were measured in a survey. The study carried out to compare the significant differences among the Bilingual Adolescents exposed to two languages under the four diverse age slots of life during their childhood which were identified as FB, KG, PS, BE. The Convergent parallel Mixed Methods Research Design was used, employing 300 bilingual adolescents from six selected 1AB schools, and 8 bilingual adolescents were observed and interviewed in a multiple case study. Quantitative data were analyzed in SPSS, One Way ANOVA and no significant differences were noticed to say that the age of bilingual exposure could be a reason to outwit early bilinguals than late bilinguals. Through data triangulation, the learning environment, the motivation of the school, the economic and social backgrounds of the parents, and the competition for university entrance were identified to be the most striking factors, than the effect of the age they were first exposed to a bilingual environment. To improve the academic consilience of language teaching process in Sri Lanka, it is crucial to develop a suitable CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) model which meets future endeavors of Social Sciences in the country.
A study on the potential of fansubbing as English language learning activity: Fansubbers’ perspectives
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Ratnayake, I.M.
The study of the English language can assist learners in understanding and enjoying the culture of the target language community and in sharing what they enjoy in their language community or other communities with the world through translation. In developing the success of language learning, there are numerous means outside the traditional classroom walls by which learners can learn a language more practically while enjoying the learning process. Fansubbing, or amateur production, is one such activity which is a newly added area into the subject domain of Audio-Visual Translation, in which a foreign film or foreign television program is translated by fans and subtitled into a language other than that of the original. The present study particularly focuses on the potential of fansubbing as a language learning activity with special reference to the English and Sinhala languages in the Sri Lankan context. An exploratory questionnaire was distributed among ten selected fansubbers of baiscope.lk, a website that provides Sinhala subtitles for a wide range of English movies/TV series/programs in Sri Lanka. One reason behind selecting the aforementioned sub-community of fansubbing is that it was chosen as the 5th among the most popular websites in Sri Lanka according to the Asia Pacific Institute of Digital Marketing. Data gathered through the questionnaire were then analysed using the Content Analysis Method. The objective of this study was to collect data concerning fansubbers’ involvement in fansubbing, their point of view on this fansubbing activity in general, and their perspective on it being utilised for language learning to determine its potential for application as a language learning activity. The results revealed that most of the questionnaire respondents agreed with fansubbing as a language learning activity and that they experience benefits both linguistically and socially as a result of fansubbing.
Why do we need Buddhist chaplains in Sri Lankan Universities? a comprehensive exploration of their role, significance, and impact on student well-being and spiritual support
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Munasinghe, H.M.L.M.
This research paper explores the necessity of introducing Buddhist chaplains in Sri Lankan universities, focusing on their role, significance, and impact on student well-being and spiritual support. The role of a chaplain is widely used across the world, notably in Europe and America, and it serves a purpose in many different contexts. This study looks into the potential benefits of integrating Buddhist chaplaincy for well-being, concerns faced by students, and ragging-related violence in Sri Lankan universities. The paper highlights the numerical roles that Buddhist chaplains can undertake, such as giving spiritual care, counseling, guided meditation, and community service. Despite the prevalence of Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka, the role of lay Buddhists in religious activities has left a void in chaplaincy services, especially concerning youth-related challenges. This paper intends to examine how the integration of Buddhist chaplaincy within Sri Lankan universities contributes to the development of students’ emotional resilience, spiritual growth, and propensity towards seeking support, in addition to fostering interfaith understanding, tolerance and societal harmony. Methodologically, the research adopts a qualitative approach, relying on textual analysis and theme exploration from relevant literature from the last decade. The study draws insights from renowned universities worldwide, such as Harvard and Yale, where chaplains have effectively contributed to student well-being and religious harmony. This research also identifies challenges in implementing chaplaincy, including language barriers and ethnic tensions. However, it also highlights the transformative potential of such a role in fostering understanding, resilience and well-being among students, thereby contributing to a harmonious society. In conclusion, the paper advocates incorporating Buddhist chaplaincy into Sri Lankan universities to address various student concerns, promote interfaith dialogue and enhance well-being. Adapting the chaplaincy role to the local context can catalyze positive change and contribute to holistic student development.
Exploring the role of business leaders in outcome-based education for human capital transformation: a systematic review
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Piyasena, K.G.C.C.; Mohammad, Lubna Ali; Dhanapala, R.M.
The education system is a fundamental asset of any economy. Similarly, advancement of the economy is significantly thrusted by the pivotal role played by its human resources. In the contemporary age, the proper execution of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) is poised to steer the educational system in the correct track. OBE primarily focuses on what is essential for all learners to be able to do because of education and then organizes all other aspects of the education system around intended learning outcomes. All other decisions about the content, teaching learning activities and student assessment tasks are driven by learning outcomes in OBE. The adoption of the OBE approach is made to improve the larger bond between academic institutions, business, and society. For an effective OBE system, defining learning outcomes is crucial, and it should represent the real requirements of the labor market. For that, educators and business leaders need to work collaboratively. However, there is very little discussion on ‘the role of business leaders in OBE for human capital transformation’. Therefore, this study attempts to explore the role of business leaders in OBE for human capital transformation. To achieve this, a descriptive analysis was conducted on the content of recently published research papers, books, and policy documents, relating to OBE and human capital transformation. Major roles of business leaders were identified based on the theory of constructive alignment, and other roles were reported under the theme of ‘general’. This study explores the role of business leaders in the OBE system. Business leaders are essential contributors, actively engaging by offering their expertise to decide learning outcome, sharing their wealth of experiences with students, facilitating hands-on learning opportunities, and actively participating in the evaluation of student progress to validate their achievement of relevant skills and knowledge, serving both as employers and seasoned practitioners. This collaborative synergy serves as a bridge to address students' skill gaps. Consequently, this study holds paramount importance for educators, business leaders, students, educational administrators, and policymakers alike. It is important to acknowledge that this study draws from secondary data, and therefore, it is recommended that future research be conducted with primary data sources for a more comprehensive perspective.
Politics of policy: nation, market, and free education in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Sivamohan, S.; Kumar, R.; Lecamwasam, H.
Our objective in this paper is to begin a dialogue on the political nature of the current status of higher education and the proposed reforms of the Parliamentary Select Committee. We will do this as a historical and analytic study of the history of Higher Education and the current juncture. We need to place the current moment in its historical context. We look upon the early stages of the education, predicated on the principles of free education, as inclining toward nation-building, and the latter as both neo liberal and nationalist. We take nation building and nationalism as related processes but distinct in their historic specificity. This is not a binary, but an imbrication of the two in each other. Through this we can locate free education ideologically and look at how the current managerial/neoliberal turn affects the country’s people and the polities at large. It is also very important to understand this moment, as education and higher education are on the cusp of change. What is the future of the university system in Sri Lanka is the broad question raised here. We will study the Kannangara report and other policy documents of early university education, and the historicity of the managerial/neo liberal turn, with specific focus on the policies of the post-2000 era to the present. We will also scrutinize the Parliamentary Select Committee’s Report of 2023 which proposes sweeping changes in education. With the managerial/neoliberal turn in education, particularly higher education, we are entering an era in which the state university system is placed in a very precarious position. We need to engage with the policies that shape our reality in the universities and take control of some of the policies in order to shape our destinies toward a democratic future.
The role of home gardens in enhancing household food security: a case study in Waratanna Grama Niladhari Division
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Ariyawansha, P.A.G.S.K.; Bandara, T.W.
In light of the growing worldwide challenges to agriculture and food supply, this study focuses on the role of home gardens in enhancing household food security. It evaluates the effects of home gardens on food security while concentrating on the geographical aspect of the man-environment connection about home gardening. The conceptual framework illustrates the vital connection among home garden products, food production, household consumption, and income generation, emphasizing their crucial role in bolstering food security. The study investigated the impact of home gardening on household food security in the Waratanna Grama Niladhari Division. The random sampling method was used to select samples. Data was collected through questionnaires and observation, and both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods were employed. Qualitative data revealed food production and consumption from home gardens, while quantitative data analyzed the Pearson Correlation Coefficient and income. The analysis was descriptive and statistical. The selected gardens included diverse plant species, while livestock integration in them was less common. The vertical structure of home gardens includes five strata, which aid in planning and designing functional gardens, contributing to household food security. The study highlights that home gardening serves as the primary food source for households, providing staple foods such as vegetables, leaves, fruits, herbs, and spices. Moreover, home gardens significantly contribute to household income, offering fresher and healthier food options and helping reduce food costs. Spices emerge as the most profitable crop. Pearson Correlation coefficient shows the relationship between species, livestock and land size. Species and land size have a positive correlation (0.285) but livestock and land size have a negative correlation (-0.962). The study highlights the significant role of home gardening in enhancing the quality of life for families by ensuring food security and increasing the income and recommends scaling up and expanding the programs of home gardening.
Language spoken at home and economic wellbeing in Sri Lanka: an analysis based on survey data
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Disanayaka, D.M.M.G.J.M.; Abeyratne, G.D.R.U.U.; Jayawickrama, J.M.A.
This study examines how language spoken at home, economic activities and personal and national economic wellbeing are interrelated in Sri Lanka. This study uses survey data collected from 905 respondents chosen from nine locations. The percentage of responses was measured using a 1-7 Likert scale. For this purpose, we used five distinct languages frequently spoken at home such as Sinhala, Tamil, English, Malayalam and Telugu and their bilingual arrangements. The study found that when compared to the high percentage of Sinhala-speaking persons who view the language spoken at home as relatively important for economic activities such as income earning, studying, finding jobs, doing trade or business, and getting access to public services, the percentage of Tamil-speaking persons who recognize language spoken at home important for economic activities are significantly low. The minority languages, Malayalam and Telugu, speaking communities also recognize the importance of language spoken at home for economic activities at low levels. However, the relatively higher importance given by respondents to the language spoken at home in doing trade and business indicates that these minority language groups may have better opportunities in trade or business when using their own language. In bilingual arrangements, on average, Tamil-Sinhala speaking persons report a lower satisfaction rate on their living standards than Sinhala or Tamil speaking persons. The Sinhala-English and Tamil-English speaking persons have higher rates of satisfaction with their living standards compared to persons who speak Sinhala or Tamil at home. The Malayalam-Sinhala bilingualism makes Malayali persons slightly better off in terms of life achievements than the Malayalam-Tamil bilingualism. Further, Telugu-Tamil bilinguals indicate that they are better off with the Telugu-Tamil combination than the Telugu-Sinhala combination.
Effectiveness of an awareness program on LGBTQ to change attitudes and knowledge of University undergraduates about LGBTQ community
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Hettigoda, K.; Ranasinghe, M.M.K.
The LGBTQ+ community has historically faced various forms of discrimination, prejudice, and stigma. One of the main issues identified is the lack of understanding about and the negative attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community in general, including their fellow students. The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of an LGBTQ+ awareness video in changing university undergraduate students' attitudes and knowledge regarding the LGBTQ+ community. The study used a pre-test/post-test designed to assess the impact of the awareness program on the participants' attitudes and knowledge. A sample of university undergraduates (n=150) was recruited from all public universities, representing diverse disciplines and backgrounds using the convenient purposive sampling technique. The awareness video focuses on LGBTQ+ terminology; challenges; social; and physical differences; and causes. The participants completed a pre-test survey assessing their attitudes and knowledge about the LGBTQ+ community prior to the awareness video introduced by the researchers. They also completed a post-test survey designed to evaluate any changes in their attitudes and knowledge. Interviews were conducted with people who showed a significant difference and those who did not show any difference. SPSS and Thematic analysis were used for data analysis. NVivo was used to transcribe the interviews into text. Pre- and post-tests showed a mean difference of 16 in knowledge and a mean difference of 17 in attitudes. Through thematic analysis, it appears that despite the increase in positive attitudes through the video, society is reluctant to accept the LGBTQ+ community based on cultural and moral factors. Accordingly, the findings of this study indicate that the awareness program significantly influenced university undergraduate students' attitudes and knowledge regarding the LGBTQ+ community. The study suggests that there is potential to reduce discrimination against LGBTQ+ people by improving awareness, dispelling myths, and fostering inclusive university environments. Future research should aim to replicate these findings in broader and more diverse samples.
Copyright law and enjoyment of the right to information: a study of justifiability and reasonability of Sri Lankan law on copyright law
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Abeyratne, G.D.R.U.U.; De Silva, T.; Jayawickrama, J.M.A.
This study was on justifiability and reasonability of the copyright law of Sri Lanka in the context of globalization of economic activities and business. The rationale of the study was based on the observation that manual labour had been increasingly replaced by mental labour in which productivity is dependent on the availability of information. It is generally observed that copyright law has become a hurdle in nurturing mental labour. Further, there is a dearth of studies which examine copyright law from a critical normative perspective. In the above context, the present study provides a normative and comparative discussion and analysis of different frameworks of copyright law from a critical perspective. The study found two pieces of law which have been framed after Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPs) agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) model. Further, it is found that law enactment in the field of copyright law had been carried out without proper consultation with the public and assessment of its developmental needs. The study found WIPO model was more beneficial to countries like Sri Lanka and it included provisions enabling translation and reuse within a shorter period of time. However, the TRIP model had done away with those developing country-friendly pieces of copyright law provisions making access to knowledge and information and their reproduction a daunting task for those eying the development of mental labour as required by the present global market.
Ambedkar: Double struggle against outside and inside
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Pushpakumara, M.D.S.
Ambedkar was involved in two struggles simultaneously: the struggle against British colonialism and Indian caste oppression. In other words, on the one hand, he fought against British colonialism to liberate Indians from British colonial hegemony; on the other hand, he fought against the oppressing caste structure in India to liberate untouchables from Hindu caste hegemony. Therefore, he had to struggle against the leadership of the Indian independence struggle to realize the objectives of the second struggle. His idea was that to emancipate the people of oppressed castes, there should be a double struggle by breaking both the colonial regime and the Congress Party as well. As Arundhati Roy insists in The Doctor and the Saint: Cast, Race, and Annihilation of Cast, the Debate Between B.R. Ambedkar and M.K. Gandhi, there is no single sentence for the annihilation of caste in the Collected Works of Gandhi. As a part of the struggle for the annihilation of caste oppression, he struggled to remove the expressions in Vedic texts that defended caste discrimination. After the failure of that struggle, he himself converted to Buddhism and proceeded to convert some 500,000 of his supporters to Buddhism, and he wrote Buddha and his Dhamma. However, he was unable to trace the caste elements in the practice of Buddhism. The objective of this study is to understand, firstly, the contradictions between Gandhi and Ambedkar in their struggles against British colonialism and caste oppression, and secondly, Ambedkar’s own contradictions in giving prominence to Buddhism over Marxism as the solution to the Dalit question. The ideas and arguments in Ambedkar’s books, biographies, and critiques formulated by scholars like Trevor Ling, Arundhathi Roy, and Ranjith Guha have been used to explore the dialectical development of contradictions between Gandhi and Ambedkar and between Buddhism and Marxism that Ambedkar addressed.
A philosophical analysis on the aesthetic foundation of the Sri Lankan mask tradition with reference to Aristotle’s mimesis
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) De Silva, M.W.A.C.
The Greek version of Aristotle's Poetics discusses poetry, other art forms, and the idea of "mimesis," which is Greek for "imitation," as they relate to his aesthetics. His definition of aesthetics included mimetic art forms including poetry, music, theatre, and painting. Masks, a type of mimetic art, are a cover for genuine personalities and a depiction of many ceremonial behaviors. The dramatic exorcism act known as "Sanni Masks" is a part of the Tovil rituals in Sri Lanka and represents the illnesses of eighteen demons. The research problem of this study is, how can we understand the Sanni Masks’ aesthetics and philosophical background in relation to Aristotle’s concept of mimesis. The research paper describes that the concept of mimesis and its relevance to the Sanni performances in Sri Lankan Sanni ritual practices. The main objective of the study is to identify the philosophical and aesthetic approach to the Sanni masks and to explore the Sanni masks in standard aesthetic theory of mimesis. The Ritual Drama of the Sanni Demons (1969), Folk Drama of the Ceylon (1952), Ceremonial Dances of the Sinhalese, Masks (1994), Aristotle’s Theory of Poetry and Fine Art (1951), Aristotle’s Art of Poetry (1940), Masks and Masks System of Sri Lanka (1978) have been used as the literature. These data were gathered as part of a qualitative study utilizing the textual analysis approach, and contextual analysis was used as secondary sources to draw a conclusion. In conclusion, Sri Lankan Sanni Masks comprise imitation dramatic acts that aim to heal people by curing the eighteen diseases caused by demons. These Sanni Mask performances entertain the general public while conveying the Buddhist philosophy behind Sinhalese ceremonies and psychological underpinning of Sri Lanka.
Resilience and responses: exploring the multifaceted impact of COVID-19 on economic, mental health, and cultural realms among Sri Lankans across three pandemic waves
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Dedunupitiya, W.; Samarakoon, E.B.S.; Pinnawala, M.; Ekanayake, J.; Yatigammana, S.; Godaliyadda, R.; Herath, V.; Ekanayake, P.; Dharmarathne, S.; Tilakaratna, G.
The global aftermath of COVID-19 has significantly transformed socio- economic structures, especially in disadvantaged Sri Lankan communities. This study investigates how the pandemic's effects on economic conditions and cultural engagements can influence individuals' mental well-being. The research involved an extensive household survey across all nine provinces, using a semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 3020 households were sampled using a multi-stage clustering method, and data were collected during three pandemic waves. The collected data underwent descriptive statistical analysis, presenting results as proportions of the total population. Findings revealedthatover all three waves,more than 60% of households fellinto the low-income category. Employment routines changed for over 50% of participants during each wave, often involving reduced work hours or permanent layoffs. Additionally, more than 70% of respondents experienceddecreased or halted monthly income throughout the pandemic, citing reasonslike reduced salaries and fewer working hours. During all 3 waves, 70% experienced income reduction and, 53% among them reported increased loneliness, 59% felt greater emptiness, and 55% experienced decreased socialconnectedness. 61% of the population reduced social gatherings during all waves,resulting in elevated loneliness (51%), decreased social connectedness (52.7%), and increased emptiness (53.5%). Similarly, 77%, reduced participation in cultural festivities and 50% among them rise in loneliness and a 56.3% increase in emptiness, coupled with reduced social connectedness by 52%. 80% of respondents reduced spiritual practices,leading to increased loneliness by 52.3%, heightened emptiness by 57.2%, and a decline in social connectedness by over 50%. The study highlights theinterplay between economic stability, cultural involvement, and mental health. Reduced income and limited cultural interactions contributed toheightened loneliness, emptiness, and reduced social connectedness. This research holds broader relevance for similar contexts and crisis survey methodologies, emphasizing how the pandemic's impact permeated economic, cultural, and mental aspects. Recognizing these connections aids societies in navigating challenges and bolstering resilience in adversity.
Building social cohesion: Contribution of intermarriages (A social anthropological study on the village in Munneswaram)
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Weerakon, W.M. U.
This study intends to explore Sinhala-Tamil intermarriages and social cohesion. Accordingly, the study intended to study how caste, religious integration, and social relationships affected the formation of social cohesion in the area. The data was obtained through semi-structured interviews, key informants, and observations, and the data was analyzed using the narrative analysis method. The sample that was selected via purposive sampling method comprised 30 intermarried families living in the 568, GS Division in Munneswaram. Emile Durkheim's theory of social integration is critical in addressing this field of knowledge. The study revealed that the civil war, unemployment, dowry, landlessness, marginalization, and social exclusion paved the path to inter-ethnic marriages. However, inter-ethnic marriages constituted a serious threat to the existing tradition. In addition, because of inter-marriages, there were close social ties between Tamil and Sinhala neighbors and relatives. In terms of the religious component, these marriages had created religious coherence between the two ethnic groups, opening the way to creating peace inside the family institution, and religious solidarity between the Hindus and the Buddhists flourished in Munneswaram. The distinctive aspect of these marriages was the production of children who were multiculturally socialized, as they had to study and adapt to two religions in the family institution. The children in these families are promoted as children with multi-religious outlooks through practices that abstracted from the philosophical basis such as religious activities, rituals, and ceremonials.
Gender: A factor in false memory creation in eyewitness testimonies
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Hettigoda, K.; Gamashoka, S.K.
Extensive research has highlighted the risk of using eyewitness testimonies in legal contexts due to human memory's fallibility. To address this, factors contributing to inaccuracies, including false memories, need examination. This study focuses on studying gender differences in the creation of false memories and uncovering a relationship between the gender interactions of the eyewitness and the interrogator in creating false memories. For this purpose, the current study adopted an experimental design, where 60 male and female participants were interrogated after watching a video of a robbery by both male and female interrogators. Measures such as double-blind design procedures were taken to minimize any extraneous or mediating effects. Data was analyzed through chi-square tests of independence. The results showed that female eyewitnesses exhibited a higher frequency of errors stemming from false memories compared to their male counterparts and that when questioned by female interrogators, male eyewitnesses provided moreaccurate responses and avoided false memories. However, the underlying causes of these significant gender-based differences warrant further exploration in future studies. This researchhas implications for the legal and law enforcement sectors, shedding light on areas that require heightened attention and precautions. Furthermore, the findings underscore the competence of female interrogators, suggesting that they are equal, if not superior, in performing interrogative tasks within law enforcement agencies.
A study of continuity and transformation of archaeo-historical context of Sindurankanda and its hinterland
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Rajapakse, A.; Chandraratne, R.M.M.; Jayaratne, D.K.; Menike, S.K.N.; Jinadasa, U.; Embuldeniya, P.
The Central Highland region constitutes a significant area in the historical and archaeological landscape of Sri Lanka. It encompasses a rich tapestry of archaeological sites that span various techno-cultural phases, thereby offering invaluable insights into the historical evolution of the region. Particularly, the Sindurankanda area serves as a compelling locus for investigating the processes of cultural evolution, extending from the prehistoric era to the contemporary period. Employing diverse archaeological field survey methodologies, this study seeks to discern the patterns of cultural continuity and transformation of the area. Preliminary explorations in Sindurankanda have yielded a considerable number of quartz artefacts, which can be categorized into distinct groups, including waste materials, potential tools, and tools. The identification of Mesolithic implements is notably challenging, primarily due to the abundance of quartz waste, suggesting the possible existence of a quarrying site where the summit of the rock may have functioned as a communal gathering place. Numerous caves, some with Brahmi inscriptions, further affirm the human presence in the region, giving rise to a rich tapestry of folklore and narrative traditions, often intertwined with the legend of Ravana. Furthermore, archaeological findings provide compelling evidence of the inhabitants of the Kandy region engaging in long-distance trade as early as the 1st century BC. This assertion is substantiated by an inscription discovered in Wegiriya, located in Udunuwara, which attests to the multifaceted skills possessed by individuals in crafts such as lapidary work, pottery, and ivory craftsmanship. The research area is replete with a multitude of Rajamahaviharas, Purana viharas, temple villages, Devalas, and Devala villages, all dating back to the Gampola and Kandy periods. These entities assume profound significance in studying ancient built environments and the cultural landscapes associated with religious and sociocultural spaces. It is imperative to note that the entire landscape has undergone profound transformations, primarily due to coffee and tea plantation practices during the colonial era.
The distribution of prehistoric sites in the central highland with special reference to Sindurankanda, Udunuwara, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Rajapakse, A.; Chandraratne, R.M.M.
The earliest prehistoric investigations on the Island were conducted by E.E. Green from the Peradeniya area in 1885. Subsequently, other researchers documented the occurrence of prehistoric tools in the Districts of Matale, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and other areas. Commonly, the evidence was found in high-altitude caves and open-air sites. The site is situated at Sindurankanda, Udunuwara, where the State Department of Archaeology and the Central Cultural Fund conducted surveys in 2014 and 2020, respectively. The authors and a few academic staff members carried out a systematic exploration of the area, collected data, and recorded the material culture which was examined and interpreted. The exploration has yielded quartz fragments (wastes, potential, and used tools) comprising very few Mesolithic tools and a few snails (Cythopoma sps.). The site contained a rock summit, a water canal below the rock, and raw material (clear, milky, and pink quartz) that shows a factory site and a community gathering location. The elevation at Sindurankandais ca. 700m. Evidently, the Mesolithic inhabitants preferred to reside ca.1000m above the sea. Observing the other sites in Kandy, many quartz tools were found in Dotulugala, the Knuckles range, and the Bambaragala Rajamahavihara area. Horton Plain consisted of the evidence of microlithic tools. Some prehistoric tools have been reported from Gampola, Nawalapitiya, and Nuwara Eliya while Peradeniya’s findings were not considered reliable tools. Fauna and flora play a significant role in the Mesolithic subsistence pattern. The authors observed the nature modification during the exploration because of colonial coffee and tea plantations, and later cultivation. Consequently, secondary vegetation is predominant. The implements measuring length < 4.5cm, showing Microlithic technology, and can be relatively dated to the Mesolithic Period (10,000-1800BP). Moreover, human-made landscape modifications have resulted from the loss of a surface material culture in the area.
Museums as a tool for cultural heritage management in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2023-09-20) Embuldeniya, P.
The general objective of this research paper is to develop an appropriate method to manage the cultural heritage in Sri Lanka through museums. Therefore, this research focuses on identifying museum objects with more narrative strength to exhibit the significance of cultural heritage through museums, promote "the museum visiting culture" in Sri Lanka, develop museum education while understanding the link between objects and the site, and understand the importance of having museum monitoring methods and policies to manage the museums efficiently for the well-being of cultural heritage management in Sri Lanka. As a methodology, a literature survey, participant observation, and interviews were carried out to collect data. The collected data were analyzed through SWOT analysis. Moreover, object domain analysis was conducted for the selected objects in museums through judgmental sampling to identify the narrative strength of the objects. In this research, the concepts of memory, identity, and heritage management were focused. This research highlights the importance of a proper museum monitoring method, the significance of identifying the narrative strength, how to link the exhibits with the site through available ability and resources, and museums’ responsibility to their public and collections. This approach could create a sense of tangible and intangible heritage at the particular site and be directed to contribute experiences for visitors concerning object, cognitive, and social occurrences. This research is directed towards museums as a tool for cultural heritage management in Sri Lanka and will help to develop museum management policies and museum monitoring methods through the memory and identity associated with museum exhibits.

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