Gnosis 2016

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The Attitudes of Sri Lankan Urban and Rural Advanced Level Students Towards Spoken English
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Bandara, U.; Ekanayake, R.; de Alwis, L.; Dias, M.; Marikkar, M.R.F.R.
Proficiency in a language instruments both writing skills and speaking ability. Though the second language learners exert much time and effort in learning English, mastering the language is quite challenging. It varies according to the language community, social background, pedagogy used to teach and some other aspects such as socio-linguistic factors. This study attempts to focus on the attitudes of Sri Lankan urban and rural Advanced Level students towards spoken English. The study was carried out through a combination of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies which is known as “triangulation”. This was used to compare and contrast the attitudes of the research participants who represent rural and urban social backgrounds in Sri Lanka. The cluster sampling and convenience sampling were appropriate as this research was conducted in two major schools that represented the urban and rural areas in Sri Lanka. The findings of the research study suggests that unlike the students in urban schools, the majority of the students in rural schools encounter challenges in speaking English which includes fluency and subject knowledge such as grammar and vocabulary. Nevertheless, this study points out that the majority of the participants have the attitude that English is a basic qualification that should be fulfilled to acquire a better career.
An Attitudinal Study of English Undergraduates at University of Kelaniya towards ‘Spell Checker’ and ‘Auto-Correct’
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Kariyawasam, D.
The present research is aimed at studying the attitudinal variations of undergraduates studying English at the University of Kelaniya towards ‘spell checker’ and ‘auto-correct’ in relation to their spelling skills. Existing studies mainly deal with more pragmatic aspects, such as studying the possible impact of these two programmes on the ability to spell and/or the memory of English language users. Data for the current study is gathered through an online survey participated by undergraduates of the University of Kelaniya who are reading English for their degree. The study explores participants’ attitudes relating to several aspects of the two programmes including the main functions, usages, and possible impacts on spellings. The research thus examines how undergraduates in a local university react towards these two systems as second language users of English and attempts to discover possible trends and patterns in attitudinal responses. The results of the study reveal that participants have a more positive attitude towards the SC than AC. There is a tendency to over-rely on the two functions due to which a possibility looms for undergraduates’ level of confidence to erode in terms of their spelling skills.
Challenges and Benefits of Bilingual Acquisition in Early Childhood
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Kurukuladhithya, D.H.
One would ultimately feel the need to learn another language in addition to one’s mother tongue. A survey conducted by ilanguages.org reveals that 60% of the world population speaks more than one language. However, for a child being exposed to a few different languages in their early childhood could be challenging. The research will compare and consider two children in their early childhood with two different levels of language speaking proficiencies, through a comprehensive interview conducted with their parents about their behavior. Out of the children in consideration for the research, one child of age four is confused among English, Sinhalese and French that he has no verbal method of communication with his parents or his friends. The other child, of age three and a half years, whose parents are Muslims living in Sri Lanka, is fluent in all English, Sinhalese and Tamil. The study would also focus upon examining the challenges and benefits the two children face in learning and in failing to learn more than one language in their early childhood. It was concluded through research findings that the child with a high language proficiency was exposed to Tamil and Sinhalese through English, the language the child took initiative in being proficient, as opposed to the other child with language confusion who was exposed to all three languages at once.
Code-switching among Junior Secondary level students in Sri Lanka
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Vithanage, A.M.H.; Weerasekara, W.M.P.H.; Paththinige, L.B.; Amarasinghe, C.J.; Ponnamperuma, D.A.O.
The researchers’ exposure to the concept of code switching made them realize the lack of in-depth research on it among Sri Lankan schoolchildren. The aim of this research was to evince social and linguistic factors trapped in the concept of code switching. This research followed the qualitative research approach and selected the Convenience Sampling method. Data collection was through picture based discussions where it was recorded and evaluated. The findings of this research reveal that the non-availability of adequate terms in either of the languages compels Sri Lankan schoolchildren to switch from one language to the other. In addition, code switching acts as a defensive mechanism by enabling the participants to fill the gaps that emerge in conversation. However, the findings of the research reveal that there are no regional differences in code switching among junior secondary level students of Sri Lanka. The researchers assume that this may differ if the research had been conducted amongst non-English medium students from rural schools.
Comparison of Words and Expressions used in a Victorian Novel and a Fantasy Novel
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Ranasinghe, S.
Many words and expressions used either in Victorian novels or fantasy novels increase the vivacity of the story adding colour to the credibility of the plot. The use of such a variety of words and expressions such as the palpable softness in Victorian speech or the slight abruptness in contemporary speech and their uniqueness to each era were discussed. David Copperfield by Charles Dickens and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J K Rowling were chosen for this study. The differences in the words and expressions used in Victorian and contemporary speech were discussed. The chosen research methods are textual and content analysis. Words and expressions felt to be unique to each era were collected as data and were analyzed as a comparison between Victorian novels and Fantasy novels. It was found that in the Victorian novels, there was mildness, propriety and respect in speech and was easy to understand. In contemporary fantasy novels there is rudeness, abruptness and uncontrolled anger. In conclusion, Victorian novels have been written with mildness and more self-control, while contemporary fantasy novels are rather rude, abrupt, clichéd and more colloquial. It is observed that the English language has evolved to a great extent in the space of two centuries.
Difficulties faced by Undergraduates of Local Universities in reading for their degrees in English medium
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Sathanandan, R.; Situbandara, S.N.B.A.; Gunasinghe, D.P.D.D.; Gunasekara, M.S.T.; Navarathne, D.M.A.S.; Gunawardena, S.
The difficulty faced by undergraduates reading in English medium is a recurrent issue in Sri Lanka. After one’s tertiary education the next step is occupation. In the present context it is important for everyone to be well versed in English. Even after thirteen years of school education, most of the students have not yet gained the required proficiency in English. Until now the reasons behind this issue and solutions have not been found out. A questionnaire was distributed amongst 40 students of three faculties, including close-ended and open-ended questions in Sinhala and English. During the process of this research many articles were dwelt upon with regard to this topic, which helped in understanding the underlying causes to this impending issue. Focus was also given on the socio-economical background of the students and the methodology of lectures. The data collected from the questionnaire helped in understanding the following; most students in local universities are accustomed to their vernacular language and are unfamiliar with English. It is during lectures that they are taught in English, which many students fail to handle due to their unfamiliarity of the language. As a result many students fail their degree or lose interest in the subject. It was recommended by the students themselves that improved teaching methods must be conducted from their primary education. Language must not be a barrier for education.
English language and its usage among the youth
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) de Silva, T.
There have been many researches done on the use of English language by the youth of Sri Lanka and for what purposes they find it necessary to learn English as a language in a rapidly globalizing world. Most studies show that the youth find it crucial to have a good English knowledge to increase their employment opportunities in the corporate sector. This study explores the practical aspects and difficulties of learning good English by the youth and it also depicts the perception of the youth and how they think that this gap between the corporate sector and the youth should be bridged and how the youth can be more aligned with the globalizing world even though Sri Lanka is still a growing country. In conclusion it was discovered that the youth find it more fitting to have a practical learning experience when trying to use English.
The influence of English language on the Spanish speakers
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Warnakulasooriya, P.
This study will be mainly focusing on three sub topics: first how English has influenced the Hispanic community in the United States, secondly how English has influenced the English- Spanish bilinguals and thirdly how English terms have influenced the Spanish language which is also known as “Anglicisms”. The background for this study is mainly based on the passion towards learning popular foreign languages. This passion towards learning languages and to examine their co relationship mainly initiated the study on “The influence of the English language on Spanish speakers”. The study was done using the qualitative research method because this is primarily exploratory research. Individual interviews, participation and observations were the main techniques used to carry out the research project. The interviews were recorded on a CD in order to observe the participants more closely. The focus group was native Spanish speakers who are either undergraduates or graduates who have come to Sri Lanka for an internship. The research gap focuses on how the influence of the English language has affected the attitudes of Spanish speakers. The findings were that although the English language has affected the Latinos on a larger scale their attitude towards the English language is fixed; English will not replace their mother tongue and they will try their best to protect their language and culture.
Oppa prefers Gangnam style: linguistics borrowings in K-pop fansubs and their Foreignizing effect
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Hettiarachchi, A.
Hallyu wave, which implies the increasing popularity of Korean cultural products at a global level, is a cultural phenomenon that derives maximum benefit of the fansubbing culture. Within the discourse of translation studies, the “foreignizing” tendency of fan-made subtitles is an area well researched into, proving it a fertile ground for academic investigation. While most of these studies are based on Japanese anime fansubs that pioneered the fansubbing movement in 1980s, a significant lack of survey into the linguistic features of fan-made subtitles is also felt, owing to the fact that these studies are situated within the discourse of translation rather than language or cultural studies. Positioned within this gap, the present study encompasses a linguistic analysis of several versions of fan-made subtitles for music videos of six selected K- pop (Korean pop) songs. The study shows that the linguistically marked singularities of Korean culture as well as syntactical peculiarities of Korean language compel the translators to borrow Korean linguistic features directly and indirectly into English, making the fansubs “foreignized.” Based on this observation, the paper argues that linguistic borrowings in fansubs signifies a refusal to translate culture specific terms and concepts on the part of the fansubber.
Pronunciation errors in English among Sri Lankan school children
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Hewawasam, I.A.; Amaratunga, J.G.I.D.; Udakumbura, U.D.L.; Pramodya, K.G.H.; Vithanage, V.G.P.M.
The aim of this research is to figure out pronunciation errors of English among school children. The significance of this research is identifying the common pronunciation errors made by Sri Lankan school children and finding resolutions to overcome those errors. In the past researchers have investigated on this matter with a common perspective in mind. A necessity was identified to conduct a research on the pronunciation errors in the English language among Sri Lankan school children. In this research, errors made by Sri Lankan school children who speak English as a second language were detected. A group of students from a reputed school in a suburb of Colombo were selected as the participants. Questionnaires were given to them in order to identify errors. According to the research, the students who have a broader exposure to English outside the school make fewer mistakes. The results suggest that the students tend to make pronunciation errors due to the influence of their mother tongue. It can be concluded that proper guidance and constant practice should be provided for the school children to improve the clarity of their English language pronunciation.
Romanticisation of the Cultural Past in British Period Films
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Dharmawimala, T.
British period films hold a significant position in the current global trend of period films due to its quality of portraying glamour and sophistication. Since its source of attraction lies in the romanticized versions of British historical eras, this study aims to discuss one technique utilized in the majority of these films; to romanticize culture. Despite its origin from Heritage films, it evades or subverts many of its alluring strategies. There is a visible concentration upon heritage film studies especially regarding its methods of representing British history in research available on this topic but less on techniques employed in period films as a distinct genre. Hence, this paper unveils a strategy detected in period films considered for this study through a close analysis of the three selected films; Pride and Prejudice (2005), Miss Austen Regrets (2008) and Belle (2014). It involves the complex development of themes within the storyline to reflect a positive portrayal of the cultural past of Britain despite the presence of themes concerning social issues prevalent in that particular era. Therefore, this research argues that the strategy involving thematic manipulation observed in the 21st century period films considered for this study, is employed to romanticize the British cultural past.
Shakespearean Politics in the Sri Lankan Context: Julius Caesar and Macbeth in 2015 Presidential Election
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Niroshi, S.M.; Mohanraj, N.D.; Ranaweera, A.S.; Wickramage, U.; Wijesekera, H.; Nirashani. M.P.G.
The objective of this study is to investigate the parallels between Shakespearean politics with regard to Julius Caesar and Macbeth and the political backdrop of the 2015 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka. In order to assert how history repeats regardless of time, place and culture, this study examines the similarities between the events and characters in terms of the themes of betrayal and astrology. Reading modern politics in the light of Shakespeare's plays has been limited to the international literati. Although in the Sri Lankan context people have referred to Shakespearean politics in isolated articles, no research has been conducted with regard to the scope of our study. Our study has conducted a qualitative investigation which is more historical. In analyzing information this study has used both content and textual analysis. In order to obtain more information our study has made references to academically approved published books, websites and newspaper articles. The findings of this study draw parallels between Brutus, Caesar and Cassius, the leading characters of Julius Caesar and the leading political figures of 2015 Presidential Election. In conclusion this study asserts how politics is connected to literature and how the same beliefs, attitudes and characteristics remain unchanged through the centuries.
The significance of the English language errors made by tourist guides in Sri Lanka
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Jayavindi, A.M.S.; Jayasinghe, D.N.P.; Dissanayake, D.M.R.N.; Shavoni, D.P.N.; Jayathilaka, G.R.A.P.; Fernando, W.D.M.
In Sri Lanka, this has become the subject of extensive research as tourism in Sri Lanka is one of the largest foreign exchange earners. Within the industry the role of a tour guide is indispensable in value with regard to the nation. Thus proficiency in foreign languages is of utmost importance for tour guides and the English language has been identified as the most commonly used language by the majority of tourist visiting Sri Lanka. It has been observed that there are certain limitations in the use of the English language by the local tourist guide. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify such limitations in the English language used among tour guides; a profession challenging the sustainability of an important industry for the economy of the country. Data for the research was gathered through interviews with English speaking tour guides and were analyzed with attention mainly focused on phonological, grammatical, and vocabulary errors. It was found that language is an integral skill for tour guides. Foreign tourists tend to ignore errors in language as long as they can comprehend the content.
Unfounded criticism of Christianity and Catholicism in Dan Brown’s Angels and Demons (2001) and The Da Vinci Code (2003)
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Dineisha, N.
Dan Brown is one of the world’s best-selling authors whose controversial novel, The Da Vinci Code was ranked the world’s third best-selling book due to its radical claims of Jesus Christ’s marriage to Mary Magdalene. The first book of the Robert Langdon series, Angels and Demons can also be seen as a criticism of Christianity. However, the way Brown criticizes Christianity is problematic as most of his criticisms of Christianity are tenuous than they appear to be. This paper intends to explore the tenuousness of Brown’s criticism of Christianity evident in The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons. The criticism of Christianity in Angels and Demons and The Da Vinci Code are not sufficiently researched. The present study intends to fill this gap by proving that Brown’s criticisms of Christian doctrine, Opus Dei and religious traditions are groundless and inaccurate. The Dead Sea Scrolls and Gnostic Scrolls, the oldest Christian written documents and the King James’ Bible are used to analyze Brown’s works. They prove that they do not contain any information regarding a union between Jesus and Mary and also prove that Brown’s criticism of Christianity, the church, Opus Dei and fundamental Christian concepts are groundless.
Usage, Attitudes and Issues of Cursive Handwriting faced by Learners using English as a Second Language in University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Jayasinghe, H.S.; Keerthiwansha, N.W.B.S.; de Alwis, V.N.N.U.; Egodage, W.A.
The research intends to focus on a less researched area and is designed to find the level of usage, the issues and attitudes of cursive writers and non- cursive writers using English as a second language in the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. Moreover, when the history of research in the field of English language is considered, there have been various studies conducted on cursive handwriting on an international level focusing on the level of clarity, performance at examinations, teachers’ attitudes and writing speed. However, a study on cursive handwriting has not been conducted so far in Sri Lanka. Thus this is an initial step for further research. The results of the study prove that cursive writing mainly relies on personal interest and students are not encouraged to learn cursive handwriting at school. In addition, the majority prefers manuscript style in an examination and taking notes in a lecture. Moreover, the majority have stressed on the proper practice and proper format when writing cursive handwriting. Meanwhile, a majority admires the beauty of cursive script and they enjoy reading when they find a properly written piece of cursive writing. Significantly, certain individuals do not measure the intellectual level of the writer through cursive handwriting. Nevertheless, due to the lack of systematic training only a minority uses cursive writing. The number of difficulties faced by the Sri Lankan cursive users is quite high, and the issues identified need to be addressed cautiously for its improvement.
Use of prepositions among University students learning English as a Second language
(Department of English, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Madhushani, H.N.G.; Athapaththu, A.M.H.K.; Athapaththu, S.P.; Navarathne, A.S.; Kumari, H.R.U.E.
Prepositional usage is a difficult grammar area among the students who are learning English as a second language. Thus, it has been demonstrated that even undergraduates learning English as a second language face difficulties when using prepositions accurately. The present study is an attempt not only to identify the common errors made by the students in using prepositions, but also to recognize the more familiar prepositions used among the students. This has led to the assumption that both teaching and learning prepositions in English by the teachers and learners who study English as a second language are inadequate. Forty undergraduates representing the four faculties, ten from each, were given a questionnaire to be answered. Accordingly, the faculty of Humanities, the faculty of Social Sciences, the faculty of Management and the faculty of Science in the University of Kelaniya answered the questionnaire consisting of fifteen questions including two open ended questions. The findings revealed that the students of the faculty of Science possess a thorough knowledge regarding the accurate use of prepositions while the knowledge of the students in the faculty of Social Sciences regarding the use of prepositions was very low. Furthermore, prepositions that had been used more accurately were: ‘into’, ‘among’ and ‘from’, while the prepositions that had been misused frequently were: ‘on’, ‘between’ and ‘of’. Thereby, our research study became a success, signaling green lights for maiden future studies.