bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stimulasi Kemampuan Visual Spasial Anak Usia Dini Melalui Program Rencana Kegiatan Harian Bermain Buku Edukatif Papan Peraga Berseri
Authors: Ajat Ajat , Zakiyah Lailatuz , Sutrismi Subur , Sugirasih Luluk , Radie Fahmarisa Herbanin
Published: February 2024

Stimulasi kemampuan kecerdasan visual spasial anak usia dini melalui program rencana kegiatan harian yang di susun oleh guru dengan melakukan kegiatan bermain buku edukatif papan peraga berseri. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuktikan manfaat stimulasi permainan edukatif secara berkesinambungan melalui pembiasaan kegiatan bermain dapat dimasukan guru ke dalam program rencana pembelajaran harian anak. Penelitian memakai metode kualitatif deskriptif pendekatan studi kasus di lembaga Bimbingan Belajar Fahma Orbiter Bekasi Utara Jawa Barat. Teknik penelitian menggunakan observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi analisis data deskriptif menyeluruh. Keabsahan data berdasarkan penyajian data pengamatan yang terjadi pada aktivitas anak dalam program perencanaan pembelajaran berkesinambungan. Hasil penelitian menunjukan adanya perkembangan pengetahuan kecerdasan visual spasial dalam kemampuan anak mengenali bentuk dan kecermatan mengamati dimensi bidang geometri sederhana setelah melakukan kegiatan permainan buku edukatif papan peraga berseri.
Manajemen Sumber Daya Manusia dalam Pendidikan Islam
Authors: Nurhasnah Nurhasnah , Kustati Martin , Sepriyanti Nana , Tiffani Tiffani , Pratiwi Sekar Harum , Sarbaini Sarbaini
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini akan menjelaskan terkait dengan konsep-konsep manajemen sumber daya manusia dalam pendidikan Islam. Penelitian ini mengadopsi metode studi pustaka (library research), di mana penelitian dilakukan tanpa peneliti terlibat secara langsung di lapangan. Sebaliknya, penelitian ini berfokus pada penjelajahan karya tulis dan berbagai literatur yang tersedia, termasuk buku, jurnal, majalah, koran, dan sumber informasi lainnya. Hasil penelitian ini adalah Manajemen Sumber Daya Manusia (MSDM) dapat diartikan sebagai serangkaian kegiatan yang mencakup penarikan, seleksi, pengembangan, pemeliharaan, dan penggunaan sumber daya manusia. Manajemen Sumber Daya Manusia memiliki tanggung jawab yang melibatkan beberapa aspek, termasuk perencanaan sumber daya manusia, perekrutan, dan penyeleksian karyawan, pengembangan tenaga kerja melalui pelatihan dan evaluasi kinerja, pemberian kompensasi dan tunjangan, serta pengelolaan pemberhentian karyawan melalui perampingan dan outsourcing. Upaya membangun sumber daya manusia yang Qurani dan unggul, diperlukan adanya aktualisasi dari nilai-nilai yang terdapat di dalam Al-Quran, seperti menanamkan akhlakul mahmudah melalui teladan dan pembiasaan, mengaplikasikan nilai-nilai Islam ke dalam proses pendidikan, mengaplikasikan metode tilawah, taklim, tazkiyyah, dan hikmah seperti yang telah dicontohkan oleh Rasulullah Saw.
Analisis Kompetensi Pedagogik Guru dalam Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka di SD Muhammadiyah 1 Candi
Authors: Nisak Nur Maslikhatun , Anggraini Dian Ismi Fitriyah
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis kompetensi pedagogik guru dalam konteks implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar di SD Muhammadiyah 1 Candi. Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar diimplementasikan dengan tujuan memberikan kebebasan kepada guru dalam merancang dan melaksanakan pembelajaran sesuai dengan kebutuhan dan konteks siswa. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Data dikumpulkan melalui observasi pembelajaran, wawancara dengan guru, dan analisis dokumen terkait Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar. Hasil penelitian ini akan memberikan pemahaman mendalam tentang sejauh mana kompetensi pedagogik guru memengaruhi efektivitas implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar di SD Muhammadiyah 1 Candi. Hasil analisis akan memberikan kontribusi signifikan terhadap pemahaman kita tentang tantangan dan potensi yang muncul dalam konteks ini. Implikasi dari temuan penelitian ini dapat digunakan sebagai dasar untuk pengembangan program pelatihan dan dukungan bagi guru dalam meningkatkan kompetensi pedagogik mereka, sehingga implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar dapat berjalan dengan lebih efektif di tingkat sekolah dasar. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan pandangan yang berharga bagi pengambil kebijakan pendidikan, sekolah, dan pihak terkait untuk terus memperbaiki dan mengoptimalkan implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar di tingkat dasar.
Implementasi Proyek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila di Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Susanto Susanto , Eliyanti Endang Tri Siti , Aunurrahman Aunurrahman , Halida Halida
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memaparkan implementasi projek penguatan profil pelajar Pancasila yang dilaksanakan pada tiga sekolah dasar di bawah naungan Yayasan Pendidikan Gembala Baik, yaitu SD Gembala Baik I, SD Gembala Baik II dan SD Plus Gembala Baik. Dalam implementasi kurikulum merdeka, salah satu terobosan dari kementrian pendidikan dan kebudayaan adalah digalakkannya kegiatan P5 di masing-masing sekolah. Kegiatan P5 diharapkan mampu menciptakan peserta didik yang berkarakter sesuai dengan dimensi profil pelajar Pancasila yang telah diluncurkan. Implementasi kegiatan P5 tentunya bervariasi di masing-masing sekolah karena disesuaikan dengan sumber daya yang dimiliki oleh masing-masing sekolah dan kendala yang dihadapi juga berbeda-beda. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif yang menggunakan metode deskriptif guna memaparkan secara jelas hasil penelitian yang diperoleh dengan menggunakan kata-kata. Penelitian dilakukan dengan melakukan survey melalui angket online dan ditujukan kepada kepala sekolah dan guru penggerak yang ada di sekolah sampel. Kegiatan P5 yang dilakukan di tiga sekolah tersebut mengangkat tema yang sama yakni kearifan lokal dengan bentuk aksi nyata yang serupa juga berupa kegiatan pengenalan dan pembuatan makanan tradisional daerah setempat.
Determining Differentially Expressed Genes in Dengue Patients during Disease Progression
Authors:   University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Coorey H , Jayatillaka R ,   University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Jayathilaka N ,   University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, Ambanpola N ,   University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Gene expression studies on gene transcription to synthesize functional gene products have been used extensively to understand the biological differences between different disease conditions. Thus, this study determines differentially expressed genes in dengue infection during disease progression following the three phases: Febrile, Defervescence and Convalescent. Integrative data analysis of two publicly available longitudinal datasets in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database has been employed to accomplish the prime objective of exploring temporal gene expression patterns. The Friedman test was given more emphasis due to the non-normality distributions of data. Since previous studies on gene expression have not primarily relied on normality assumption, repeated measures analysis of variance and linear mixed models were implemented to examine the potential of detecting differentially expressed genes despite non-normality. The Friedman test indicated that gene expression levels differentiate with different phases in dengue disease over time, resulting in a high number of significant differentially expressed genes compared to the other two techniques. The pathway analysis approach consists of significant differentially expressed genes derived from the Friedman test. The results identified 27 and 26 upregulated pathways for the “Febrile and Convalescent” and “Defervescence and Convalescent” groups respectively. Moreover, genes available in pathways were not identified by the two parametric tests for non-normal data implying that the parametric approaches resulted in the least significance for data with non-normal distributions.
A Long-Term Relationship Between Sri Lankan Stock Market and Global Stock Markets: A Time Series Analysis
Authors:   Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, Samarawickrama I.D.W , Pallegedara A ,   Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

A stock market plays a vital role in the capital generation of a nation. With increased financial integration, factoring the regional and international dynamics shared in stock markets assist investors in portfolio diversification decisions and assist policy makers in implementing appropriate policies during a turmoil period. Thus, the study intended to identify the dynamic relations of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) with other prominent global markets to provide insights in making appropriate investment and policy decisions. The study analysed the daily returns of All Share Price Index (ASPI), the broad market index of Sri Lanka and six international stock markets of US, UK, China, Japan, Germany, and India from May 1992 to December 2020. Owing to the non-stationarity of data, a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) was developed. The stationarity and the presence of cointegration among ASPI and all selected stock markets were identified except the Chinese stock market. German and Indian stock markets were negatively integrated with ASPI in the long run contrasting to the Japanese, US, and UK stock markets positively cointegrated with ASPI. The study provided evidence for trade links and national level trade and cooperation leading to higher market integrations. Furthermore, the study extended the empirical evidence on geographically and economically closer countries being highly integrated in the long-term. Therein, on contrary to previous studies, study identified that CSE as a frontier market gets affected by larger stock markets in the long run. Hence, study insights were imperative in investor and policy maker decisions on the long run relations present among ASPI and the selected stock markets.
Construction and Validation of Academic Stress Scale for 18-35-year-old Sri Lankan University Students
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Ponnamperuma Lakmal , Hettiarachchi Anoli ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Jayakodi Pubudini ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Abeysinghe Nilanga ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

This article describes the development and initial validation of a new instrument to measure the academic stress of university students in Sri Lanka. A 16-item scale was developed by reviewing the literature and conducting interviews. Surveys were conducted with 726 Sri Lankan undergraduate students, and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were used to analyse the data. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Oblimin rotation produced a two-component model of the Academic Stress Scale: (1) Stress due to lack of sufficient knowledge and (2) stress due to interpersonal relationships, which together explains 59% of the total item variance. The ASS is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring academic stress. A CFA suggested that the proposed factor model fits moderately well. Therefore, for researchers who have a particular interest in academic stress among Sri Lankan students, the ASS promises to be a helpful tool.
A Study on the Perception of the Principals Regarding the Difficulties in the Implementation of Online Education in Rural Small Schools
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Wakishta Yugamini J.W , Perera K.G.S.K ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

This study examines the challenges faced by principals in rural small schools when implementing online education in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Main objective was to understand the nature of the online education in these schools and identify specific difficulties encountered by the principals. The study used a mixed-method, sequential explanatory research design. Forty eight school principals were selected randomly out of 130 schools according to the research criteria (n=48). Data was collected through online questionnaires and qualitative interviews. Findings indicated that although principals have a basic understanding of online education, further development is needed. It was found that practical problems and difficulties hindered the effective implementation of online education in rural small schools. Recommendations included implementing a formal awareness program for all school stakeholders and mobilizing necessary resources.
Living Colours: Development of Microbial Culture Collection for Use as Microbial Colour Pigments in Textile Dyes
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Hewagama H.L , Somarathna G.M.T.K ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology, Nanotechnology & Science Park, Mahenwatta, Pitipana, Homagama, Sri Lanka, Herath L ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology, Nanotechnology & Science Park, Mahenwatta, Pitipana, Homagama, Sri Lanka, Peiris S.E ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

The textile industry is one of the largest worldwide polluters of clean water due to the heavy use of synthetic dyes. Synthetic dyes are harmful to aquatic life and to human health. To overcome this, natural dyes are being explored as a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative. Several advantages such as ease of extraction, availability, high yields and no seasonal variation make microbial pigments the most ideal source of natural pigments. This study was done to isolate colour pigment producing bacteria and fungi from soil collected from organic farms from various locations in Sri Lanka. In total, 9 pigment producing bacteria and 3 pigment producing fungi were isolated. Gause’s synthetic agar yielded the most pigmented isolates. Extracellular pigments produced by 5 of the bacterial isolates were extracted by a water based method. The antibacterial activity of the pigments in their crude and concentrated forms was tested using the well diffusion method against E.coli ATCC 8739 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538P. Inhibition zone against S.aureus was observed for both crude (12.33±0.58mm) and concentrated pigments (9.67±0.58mm) extracted from purple pigment producing bacterial isolate (BPU). This pigment has the potential to be used in antibacterial textile preparation. Extracted pigments were used to dye scoured cotton fabric with the use of 3% alum as mordant. Pigment from BPU isolate resulted in better coloured fabric.
Effectiveness of Using Prepared and Impromptu Speeches to Evaluate Undergraduates’ Oral Proficiency in English as a Second Language Classroom
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Jayathissa K. D. M
Published: February 2024

Proficiency in English language can be considered as crucial because it has been commonly used as a lingua-franca in communication. This study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of using prepared and impromptu speeches to evaluate undergraduates’ oral proficiency in English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom. The undergraduates’ perception on the importance of testing oral proficiency and the effectiveness of prepared and impromptu speeches to evaluate oral proficiency of the undergraduates were investigated. A sample of 74 first year undergraduates who are reading up for Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Software Engineering were selected for this study as a convenience sampling. The data were gathered under three stages by following a mixed methodology. As the first stage a questionnaire was distributed and as the second stage a prepared speech was done. As the third stage, a prepared-impromptu speech and an impromptu speech were evaluated. The data collected from the questionnaire and the marks of the three speeches were analyzed to answer the research questions. The analyzed data emphasized that the participants have identified the importance of oral proficiency in English language for their future career and prepared and impromptu speeches can be used as a testing technique to evaluate undergraduates’ oral proficiency. Thus, oral proficiency in English language is crucial for the undergraduates, as English language has been used for communication purposes. Hence, prepared and impromptu speeches can be considered as an effective testing tool to evaluate students’ oral proficiency in English Language in the Sri Lankan ESL classroom.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study of Mothers’ Perspectives
Authors:   Liverpool John Moores University, Liyanage Hiruni , Fernando Thilakshi ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching global consequences, causing substantial changes in all aspects of daily life. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are highly sensitive to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study explores the impact of COVID-19 on children with ASD by focusing on qualitative data obtained from their mothers. The study aimed to determine the impacts of COVID-19 on children with ASD, the challenges mothers of children with ASD faced during COVID-19, and the coping mechanisms they have used. A purposive sample of 6 mothers of children with ASD who fulfil the requirements of the inclusion criteria were recruited. Qualitative semi structured interviews were conducted to obtain in-depth information. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Four major themes emerged: Pandemic’s influence on the social development of kids with ASD, ASD children’s psychological response to the pandemic, Motherhood struggles during the pandemic, and Adaptive responses to the challenges of COVID-19. The study findings indicate both positive and negative impacts of COVID-19 on children with ASD, particularly affecting their social skills. Motherhood struggles and adaptive responses during the pandemic are also discussed. Further research is necessary to identify interventions aimed at mitigating the effects of COVID-19 on children with ASD.
The Impact of Sleep Quality on the Quality of Nursing Care Provided by Shift Working Nurses: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in Sri Lanka
Authors:   University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, Nawarathne L. C , Edirisinghe N. P ,   University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Turale S ,   Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Amarasekara T. D. ,   University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

The requirement for nurses to work in shifts is a critical issue for their health and well-being. Working in shifts disturbs sleeping patterns and degrades sleep quality. This may affect the performance of nurses as well as has adverse effects on health. There is a paucity of information on this topic in the context of Sri Lanka. Using a descriptive cross-sectional study, it was aimed to assess the relationship between quality of sleep and nursing care among nurses in two selected government hospitals. The Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index was used to assess sleep quality while nursing care was assessed by three visual analog scales, and fully completed 279 questionnaires were analyzed. A statistically significant association was identified between shift type worked by duration and minor and moderate nursing errors. However, the self-reported error rates were mostly at low rates or unreported. Comprehensively, sleep quality was not associated with the error rates perceived in this study. Results would have been more effective if circadian rhythms and different shifting strategies were assessed. Evaluating self reported errors limited the study comparatively. There was no overall association between sleep quality and the errors perceived. Current policies, staffing plans, and mechanisms to assist nurses in coping should be updated and implemented in a timely manner in nursing practice.
Rights of Differently-Abled Child Victims of Domestic Violence: An Assessment under the Sri Lankan Legal Framework
Authors:   General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Wijesuriya Uttara Kaumadi
Published: February 2024

Among the victims of domestic violence, differently-abled children are the most vulnerable group in the community. The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act is the main statute regarding the law relating to domestic violence, which does not specifically lay down provisions for protection of this vulnerable group. However, the Sri Lankan legal framework for the protection of the rights of differently-abled children against violence is somewhat comprehensive as there are both domestic and international legal standards. A slow progress is observed in the implementation of strategies to overcome the current issues concerned with victimized differently-abled children. Against this background, the objectives of this study were to analyze the current legal framework in Sri Lanka towards the protection of differently-abled children against domestic violence and to explore the need of prioritizing the rights of them against domestic violence. This study is entirely based on a qualitative approach by referring to secondary sources while following the Black Letter Research Methodology. This study further highlights the lack of data regarding this aspect as one of the major reasons for problems in the implementation process since assessment of the current situation is the most crucial aspect before taking preventive measures.
Predicting Factors Towards the Attitudes of Family Involvement in Nursing Care among Second-Year Nursing Students in a Selected School of Nursing in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Kaatsu International University, Sri Lanka., Dilrukshi K. T , Amarasekara T. D ,   University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
Published: February 2024

Family involvement is a vital component of patient centered care. This study aimed to examine the predicting factors towards the attitudes of family involvement in care among second-year Nursing students in a selected School of Nursing in Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among nursing students (N=237) at the School of Nursing Kalutara. Convenience sampling method was used. A Families’ Importance in Nursing Care – Nurses’ Attitudes (FINC-NA) scale, which includes four dimensions: family as a conversational partner, a coping resource, a resource in nursing care, and a burden, was used to collect data. The scale’s internal consistency was compared and assessed through Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of more than 0.7. Both, descriptive and inferential statistics was used. The student nurses have positive attitudes toward family as a resource in nursing care (M= 37.69, SD = 4.62), and as a conversational partner (M=30.96, SD = 3.78). Family as a conversational partner significantly differs for males and females (t = -2.06, p=0.04). Female nursing students have a higher positive attitude toward family as a conversational partner (M=31.06, SD =3.76) than that of male nursing students (M= 29.77, SD = 3.77). According to the individual significance values of the linear regression model, gender (β = 3.67, t = 2.22, p < 0.03) presented a significant effect on the attitude of nursing students towards family involvement in nursing care. Cultural and regional influences on attitudes towards family involvement is still researchable. Further research is needed on this phenomenon.
Fungal Meningitis in an Allegedly Immunocompetent Patient in Sri Lanka: A Case Report
Authors:   Post Basic College of Nursing, Colombo, Sri Lanka, Wijesundara G. H. L , Yuharaj R ,   Post Basic College of Nursing, Colombo, Sri Lanka, Wijedasa H. S ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Fungi are a significant source of microorganisms, which cause disability and death. They act as opportunistic pathogens in the immunocompromised host. Though it is rare among immunocompetent patients, a 44-year-old allegedly immunocompetent woman developed a sudden onset of headache which was holocranial but radiated to the occipital and neck region gradually and ended up with altered agitated behavior and presented to the Emergency Treatment Unit of National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed the diagnosis of probable Cryptococcal meningitis. Despite free health care system for every citizen of the country with the current economic burden, the management of prevailing treatment became complicated. Administering IV Conventional amphotericin B instead of the ideal treatment of IV Lymphosomal Amphotericin B showed numerous side effects and toxicity systemically in general and specifically on the genitourinary tract of the patient. At the same time, it opened access to a debatable question on assessing the value of disease-centered care and holistic approaching methods especially for the health care professionals. Meanwhile, this study discusses the assessment and implementation of nursing care considering the complications of drug toxicity and adverse effects combined with psychologically negative behavior due to pronged hospitalization for more than 35 days. This case study reveals the impact of nurses’ knowledge and understanding in providing care for the management of rare diseases like fungal meningitis. To provide comprehensive care nurses and the health care team must work together with updated knowledge and hands-on skills for a better patient outcome.
Approach or Avoid? A Quantitative Study on the Dualistic Nature of Social Media Envy in Undergraduates in a Non-state University in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Perera Ransi , Abeysinghe Nilanga ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Galappaththi Kanjana ,   University of Mysore, India
Published: February 2024

Envy is a complex emotion studied recently, especially with the impact of social media. This study explored the dualistic nature of social media envy in Sri Lankan undergraduates from a non state university. Using a quantitative design, data from 155 participants were collected via Google Forms and analysed with Spearman’s Rank test. Results indicated statistically significant positive moderate relationships between social media usage and both benign envy and malicious envy. However, social media only accounted for 20% of benign envy and 8.8% of malicious envy, suggesting it’s only one of many contributors. Furthermore, the association between social media usage and benign envy was stronger than that with malicious envy, implying social media envy may be less severe than perceived in Sri Lanka. The study acknowledges limitations, such as sample size and focus on one university. Future research should address these limitations and explore the dualistic nature of social media envy in different populations and contexts. Overall, the study emphasises the need to understand the complexity of envy and how social media can amplify or alleviate it. Findings have implications for social media usage, regulation, and interventions promoting emotional well-being.
Significance of Environmental Concepts in the Science Curriculum of Secondary Education in Sri Lanka
Authors:   University of Jaffna, Sri Lanka, Uruthirathasan Mathura , Piratheepan Kunasingam ,   University of Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Environmental threats are serious concerns in the present world. Therefore, to reduce environmental threats, an environmental literate generation with positive attitudes and behaviours towards the environment should be created. In this manner, environmental education was introduced globally as a tool to create an eco-friendly generation. In Sri Lanka, environmental education was not introduced as a separate subject but rather as an integrated concept within the Science curriculum. Since, it is doubtful whether the existing curriculum satisfies the scope of environmental education, this qualitative study on content analysis is designed to examine the extent to which environmental concepts are emphasized compared with other science concepts in the secondary level science curriculum of Sri Lanka. Additionally, it aims to evaluate the extent to which the existing curriculum is expected to bring attitudinal changes related to the environmental. Secondary sources such as school textbook from grade six to eleven, teachers’ instructional manual and other relevant written documents of the government and various researchers were analyzed for this study. It is proved that less importance is placed to direct environmental concepts rather than other concepts in the curriculum. Accordingly, the number of instructional periods allocated for environmental-related units in the school text books are relatively low (Grade 6,7,8,9,10,11 : 11.2%, 15.4%, 0, 8.3%, 0 and 13.4% respectively). Furthermore, most of the learning outcomes that the students are expected to achieve focus on the development of knowledge dimension of environmental concepts rather than fostering eco friendly attitudes. Therefore, there is a need to pace greater emphasis on environmental concepts in a manner that promotes attitudinal changes in students, which can ultimately result in the development of an eco-friendly generation.
A Study on Depression of University Students due to Academic Stress in Sri Lanka
Authors:   SLITT Academy, Colombo 3, Fazly Ayesha , Kulaweera M. Thilini ,   SLITT Academy, Colombo 3
Published: February 2024

Academic stress and depression in students are complex and with multifaceted issues. Stress is an inevitable part of academic life that negatively impacts students’ mental health, including depression. This study investigates depression among university students due to academic stress, identifies risk factors, examines barriers to mental health treatment access, and suggests recommendations for educators and mental health experts. An online questionnaire was used to collect data from university students in the Colombo district. Descriptive statistics and hypothesis tests were employed to evaluate the relationship between academic stress and depression. A total of 83 respondents participated in this questionnaire, out of which 55.4% were female and 44.6% were male respectively. Students’ mental health negatively affects academic performance at 71.1%, with 63.9% having no access to mental health professionals at university. Uncertainty in mental health services is reported by 43.4%, while 42.2% know where to seek help for depression. According to the study, there is a significant relationship between academic stress and depression, as well as between depression and gender. Regularly, more than 40% of respondents’ report experiencing difficulty concentrating, anxiety, disappointment, sleepiness, and anger. University students’ mental health and well-being require attention from mental health experts and professionals. demic stress; Student depression; Risk factors;eatment access; Coping echniques.
The Effect of ICT-Based Multimedia Use in Activities on Science Students’ Achievement and Motivation in Learning
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Waidyathilaka Mallika Arachchige Lakna Wathmini , Perera K.G.S.K ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

It is evident from the research in education that integration of ICT-based multimedia in the learning process could improve students’ achievement and enhance motivation to learn. The objectives of this research were to investigate the effect of ICT-based multimedia integration in classroom activities on students’ achievement and their motivation to learn as against the effect of the use of traditional methods in students’ activities. The design of the research was quasi-experimental in which 50 grade 7 students of a private school participated in this study. Two intact groups of 25 students were randomly assigned to the experimental group and the control group. Same pre-test was administered to both groups. Both groups were taught the same science lesson and students of the experimental group were assigned to carry out an activity using ICT-based multimedia and those in the control group carried out the same activity using papers and colours. At the end of the activity the same pre-test was conducted as the post-test on both groups. Motivational scale based on the Keller’s ARCS model of motivation was administered on the experimental group to study the degree of motivation to use ICT-based multimedia to carry out activities. However, results indicated that there was no significant difference in achievement between students who did activities with ICT-based multimedia and those who completed activities using papers and paints. Nevertheless, the motivation to use ICT-based multimedia in activities by the students who were engaged in activities of ICT-based multimedia was found to be high.
Common Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression among Mothers after Childbirth in Asian Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Ranasinghe N. S , Wijedasa H. S ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, De Silva B. S. S ,   The Open University of Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Depression is the most common mental illness which leads to various health consequences among mothers following the delivery of their babies. Post-partum depression leads to self-harm, suicidal ideation, or harming the newborn, hurting family life. Early detection and management of depression during the antenatal period would prevent both maternal and neonatal complications. Hence, knowing the risk factors may help in planning care for individuals reducing the burden on the health care system. There is a lack of exact evidence of the common risk factors for developing depression after childbirth in Asian mothers. Therefore, this systematic review aims to identify the common risk factors for post-partum depression among mothers after childbirth in Asian countries. Relevant literature from 2017 to 2023 was searched in CINAHL, MEDLINE, PUBMED, Science Direct, and Cochrane databases. Seven highly relevant articles were selected using the PRISMA flow chart. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and its tools were used to carry out the critical analysis of each selected article. Following the in-depth analysis, three key themes were derived: an unfriendly home builds an unhappy mother, expectation versus reality leads to depression, and poor financial status leads to an unsafe post-partum period. The study highlighted that mothers in Asian countries are affected by a wide variety of complex post-partum depression risk factors. Improving knowledge, early detection of emotional needs, counseling, effective use of contraceptives, and delivery of high-quality care during the ante-natal period are necessary for reducing post-partum depression among antenatal mothers.
Statutory Adjudication for the Sri Lankan Construction Industry
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Rajapaksha D.N.S , Edirisinghe V ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Perera A.N ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Disputes are pervasive in the Sri Lankan construction industry, causing project delays and financial burdens. Common dispute resolution methods include negotiation, conciliation, mediation, adjudication, and arbitration. While adjudication is mandatory in Sri Lankan construction contracts, its ineffectiveness and lack of enforceability have prompted the exploration of statutory adjudication. This study investigates the barriers to implementing statutory adjudication in Sri Lanka’s construction industry and proposes solutions. Using a qualitative approach, the study involves literature reviews and interviews with industry professionals. Findings indicate a growing preference for adjudication due to its efficiency and reduced adversarial impact. However, the absence of legislative support poses a significant obstacle. Recommendations include enacting statutory adjudication laws, government involvement, creating frameworks and guidelines, and establishing dispute resolution organizations and court systems. Comparable systems in the UK, Australia, and Singapore provide insights into the types of disputes eligible for resolution. Overcoming operational issues such as biased authority nominations, short adjudication timeframes, and insufficient adjudicator regulations is crucial. Implementing statutory adjudication can enhance confidence among stakeholders, cash flow management, and dispute resolution in Sri Lanka’s construction industry, ultimately fostering its growth and sustainability. This study emphasizes the need for legislative backing, government engagement, and comprehensive system development to facilitate statutory adjudication’s successful integration. Recommendations also include promoting awareness, training adjudicators, and encouraging professionals to become adjudicators in the industry, ensuring the construction sector’s continuous improvement.
A Needs Analysis in Second Language Teaching (English Language): A Study on Grade 10,11 Students in the Sri Jayawardenapura Educational Zone
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Boteju Thuhansi , Rathnasena Upeksha ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study isto investigate the needs of English language learners in grades 10 and 11 who attend schools in the Colombo area specifically within the Sri Jayewardenepura Educational Zone. Statistics demonstrate that a significant number of students failed the Ordinary Level English paper, despite evaluations and curriculum reforms undertaken by the government. A thorough needs analysis was required to determine the causes and provide a solution to this situation. The objectives of this study are to investigate the purpose of students learning English as a second language, to conduct a needs analysis to critically analyze the needs, necessities, and lacks in grade 10, 11 students in Colombo District, and to suggest and recommend ideas to incorporate needs analysis findings. For this mixed-method study, information is collected using questionnaires and interviews, and the quantitative data is represented through graphs and tables, while the qualitative data is shown through a theme-based analysis. Based on the outcomes of this study, it is anticipated that the current curriculum will undergo modifications and adjustments to align with the authentic needs and requirements of students, thereby ultimately achieving a high level of student proficiency.
Disease Identification and Mapping using CNN in Paddy Fields
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Sandeepanie W. D Nilakshi , Rathnayake Samadhi ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Gunasinghe Amali ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Rice, a globally vital staple crop, sustains over half of the world’s caloric needs while supporting the livelihoods of small-scale farmers and landless laborers. The escalating global population has led to an increased demand for rice production. Sri Lanka, renowned for its premium rice quality, has a rich history of paddy cultivation. However, a substantial portion of the country’s 708,000 hectares of paddy land remains underutilized due to water scarcity and unstable terrain. The objective of this project is to enhance paddy crop quality during the critical vegetative phase by employing machine learning and web development for early disease identification. The vegetative phase significantly influences overall yield, resistance to pests and diseases, nutrient assimilation, and environmental sustainability in agriculture. This project primarily focuses on early disease identification during this phase and presents the findings through a user-friendly map interface. Early identification of paddy diseases is vital for effective crop management and high yields. These diseases, caused by various pathogens, can severely impede plant growth and productivity if not promptly detected and treated. Identifying them early enables farmers and experts to take timely, targeted actions such as applying suitable fungicides or implementing cultural practices to control their spread and minimize crop damage. A logical map, displaying disease spread percentages, will gauge the impact of infections on paddy plants. The reliability of this mapping process hinges on model accuracy, which was rigorously validated using multiple metrics to ensure its effectiveness.
Pronunciational Swings: British and American Influences on the English Pronunciation of English as a Second Language Learners in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Amaraweera Sankaja , Dissanayake Sucheru ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

In Sri Lanka, which used to be British Ceylon for nearly 15 decades, BrE used to hold a dominant position in all aspects of life. Under globalisation, a shift is observed taking place towards AmE due to numerous developments in science, technology, industry, commerce, politics, and popular culture. Academics and professionals depend on audiovisual recordings of presentations produced either in Standard British English (BrE) or Standard American English (AmE) and broadcast in public media. Against this background, this paper examines the dynamicity of English pronunciation in Sri Lanka caused by BrE and AmE, to which the ESL learners on the island are daily exposed. It also investigates the extent to which BrE and AmE respectively influence English pronunciation in Sri Lanka, filling a notable gap in the existing literature. The research provides valuable insights into some emerging trends in English pronunciation in Sri Lanka, the conditions that influence the Sri Lankan speakers’ attitudes toward the two varieties of English, and the support the ESL teachers can derive from their awareness of pronunciational swings between BrE and AmE in organising teaching practices and materials. Further, some major pronunciation differences between BrE and AmE are explored, highlighting both disparities and exceptions consistent in certain phonetic features. Finally, it explores the dynamicity of English pronunciation in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the need to consider both local and global factors in ESL teaching, with suggestions for effective language learning and communication in global contexts.
Translation and Validation of the ‘Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism’ on a Sinhala-Speaking Population of 3- to 12-year-olds in Colombo and Gampaha Districts
Authors:   University of Colombo, Pathiraja Ganee Arachchi Pathiranehalage Senethra Sachini Ohara , Ponnamperuma Lakmal ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

There is a significant need for appropriate culturally sensitive, standardized screening tools in many countries including Sri Lanka for the accurate identification of ASD which leads to specific interventions and good prognosis. The study’s aim was to investigate psychometric properties by translating and validating the Indian Scale for the Identification of Autism on a Sinhala-speaking population of 3 to 12-year-olds in Colombo and Gampaha districts to increase the efficiency and quick screening of autism in routine clinics. The methodology included the systematic forward and backward translation, Delphi process and data collection from clinical and non-clinical samples from Sinhala speaking parents of 3- to 12-year-olds in Colombo and Gampaha districts. The study had a good internal consistency reliability measured through Cronbach’s alpha of .927. There was high sensitivity and specificity measures whereby a cutoff score of 68 was ensured through the Receiver Operator Characteristic Curve. Overall, the Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism is suitable to be used in routine clinics in Colombo and Gampaha districts.
The Effect of Instagram Marketing Activities on Customer Based Brand Equity
Authors:   University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, Nandasiri S.H.U.K , Silva H.P.T.N ,   University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Instagram is used as an effective and visual marketing channel for building brand equity in the minds of consumers. This research assisted in filling the gap by analyzing the effect of social media marketing activities on customer-based brand equity by applying the concept of brand equity to the Instagram marketing context based on clothing stores in Sri Lanka. Towards that, a quantitative method was used, and data were collected from 385 Instagram users who follow selected clothing store Instagram accounts in Sri Lanka. The survey was carried out with stratified random sampling method by taking selected six prominent clothing store Instagram accounts as strata. The results obtained through a Structural Equation Model revealed that Instagram marketing activities comprise only three dimensions: entertainment, customization, and advertisement while two dimensions: trendiness and interaction, do not have significant effect on customer-based brand equity in Sri Lankan context. Therefore, it can be recognized that Sri Lankan Instagram users who do not tend to pay attention to Instagram clothing stores when buying clothes online still have some confusion, uncertainties, unfamiliarity, and lack of knowledge about using this platform. This research suggested that Instagram platform should be promoted in Sri Lanka as a user-friendly platform and marketing plan of clothing stores should be accompanied by certain strategies in Instagram to expand brand networks, community development, and increase interaction between stores and customers.
Development of SARIMA Model to Predict Quarterly Apparel and Textile Export Revenue in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Piyasiri K. G. V , Kasthuriarachchi U. P ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Nirmani K. G. R ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Tilakaratne K.I ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Peiris T. S. G ,   Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka
Published: February 2024

Apparel and textile exports play a significant role in the Sri Lankan economy. The USA, UK, Italy, Germany, and Belgium are the main markets of apparel and textile exports in Sri Lanka. Advanced knowledge of export revenue is vital important for various reasons. A Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) model of the type (1,1,0) x (0,1,1)4 was developed to model apparel and textile export revenue in Sri Lanka using quarterly data from year 2004 quarter 1 (2004Q1 ) to year 2021 quarter 4 (2021Q4 ). The errors of the model were found to be random and have a constant variance. The best fitted model was identified by comparing various statistical indicators, namely, the Akaike info criterion, Schwarz criterion, Hannan-Quinn criterion, Log likelihood criterion and volatility of six possible models decided based on sample ACF and PACF of the stationary series. The model was validated for data from year 2022Q1 to 2023Q1 . The Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) for the training data set and validation data set were 7.68% and 11.35% respectively. The predicted revenues (Mn USD) for the 2023Q2 to 2024Q4 are 1074.23, 1263.30, 1222.22, 1206.74, 1058.38, 1265.00 and 1216.58, respectively. The forecasted values for short-term periods can be effectively used by the decision makers for various activities. The model developed is easy to use and reliable.