Browsing by Author "Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P."

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Chunks - noticing technique
(Second Language Learning Issues-A Collection of Articles, 2018, ISBN:978-955-71396-0-9, 2018) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
There is now widespread acceptance of the importance of formulaic expressions in language learning. This experimental component was based on the assumption that second language learning is facilitated by acquisition of chunks of language and therefore, when chunks are brought into the attention of the learner, efficiency of language learning increases. The study investigated the effectiveness of the activities for noticing the use of prepositions in chunks. Eighty students studying English as a second language participated in this study. These students were randomly divided into experimehtal and control groups of 40 subjects each. The experimental group received two hours of specially designed activities per week for a period of five weeks (10 hours), while the control group received general instruction. Both groups were tested on the cloze test for prepositions at the end of five-week period. Given that marks were normally distributed, an independent sample t-test was used to see the significance of the mean value difference of the two groups. Two variance tests were conducted to see if the variance of the control group is equal to that of the experimental group. The variances were equal and therefore, the p value of the independent sample test which showed 0.000 indicates that the null hypothesis could be rejected at 0.05. The results are discussed on the basis of how meaningful the actual mean difference was.
Concept of e-governance in higher education: a model proposed to be implemented at Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute
(Department of Shalya Shalakya,Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute,University of Kelaniya,Sri Lanka, 2017) Chithrananda, W.A.D.; Udagedara, U.G.J.R.; Wijewardana, D.S.R.; Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
This paper is an approach that encompasses processes and a proposed model designed to promote the quality of Ayurveda education at Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute. There has been considerable increase in the number of students enrolled and number of study programmes offered at Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute. Therefore, it has become very important for the administrators to keep track of their functioning. The Institute has various requirements that include computerization and management of processes such as clinical, academic and administrative functions. If the quality of our Ayurveda education system has to be improved to make this Institute really world class, there is no alternative to the introduction of the concept of e-governance in this sphere at the fastest possible pace. The proposed model aims at using fundamental elements of e-governance in Ayurveda education to provide new ways of approaching academic and administrative activities at the Institute. Three basic tools are used in implementation of the proposed model; Innovative Academic Tools, Private Public Participation and Centralized Information. The proposed model will be implemented through a framework consisting of well-dened Structures, Processes and Relational mechanisms. Several prerequisites have been identied for project implementation including senior ICT decision-makers, improved communication between central and departmental ICT groups across, and communication between ICT personnel, top management and other stakeholders. Heavy nancing would be one of the biggest issues for e-governance implementation. Benchmarking of proposed framework includes several elements of criterion including development of human resources, development of administrative activities, research and academic activities, innovation and transfer of knowledge, good governance and sustainability of the system. The project is proposed to be assessed on completion of its implementation. It is believed that the concept of e-governance can be effectively used in planning, implementation, and monitoring of Ayurveda educational programs and other activities of Ayurveda higher educational institutes.
Development of English Writing Skills among Sinhalese Adult Learners
(University of Kelaniya, 2007) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
The Study of the development of second language writing skills among undergraduates at Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute is of considerable pedagogical significance. The study aimed at investigating the effect of using model-texts for development of organizational and stylistic competencies of these L2 learners. Through a questionnaire distributed among the 89 subjects, three sets of learners were identified: those with sufficient linguistic input from 5 years of age onwards (Group X), those with sufficient linguistic input only after 15 years (Group Y) and those without sufficient linguistic input at any age (Group Z). The same writing course which included over fifteen writing lessons was administered to all the subjects: during the course of teaching, organizational and stylistic elements were highlighted through model-texts. A pre-test and a post-test were conducted to determine the effect of teaching: marks were given separately for each competence on the basis of a pre-determined five point scale: to ensure reliability, an independent examiner also graded the writings and the reliability was 0.91. One-way ANOV A performed on pre-test scores confirmed the group variability with significant p values < 0.05 for both organizational and stylistic competencies: mean values of groups X,Y and Z were 14.42, 8.13 and 2.30 (organizational) and 9.58, 6.78 and 2.1 a (stylistic) respectively. This suggests that L2 writing competence depends upon the linguistic input of the learners. Dependent paired sample t-test performed on pre and post test scores indicated that only group x and Y learners had benefited from the teaching, with regard to each competence. This suggests that the model texts used in teaching will develop the writing competence of those who have had sufficient linguistic input. In pedagogical context, this type of writing course should, therefore, be administered only to those with sufficient linguistic input. The study also suggests that linguistic input of the learner is an indicator of L2 writing performances: it can be used to group the learners, as an alternation to traditional placement tests. A simple computer-based device can be designed so that the learner himself can enter his data of linguistic input and identify his group.
Development of English writing skills among Sinhalese adult learners : A case study
(2007) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
Diagnostic Procedure Associated with Astrological Concepts: A Literature Review
(2nd International Research Conference & Exhibition on Siddha Medicine -2020, Organized by Unit of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna, Kaithady, Sri Lanka, 2020) Samaranayake, G.V.P.; Abegunasekara, N.S.; Dharmapriya, A.K.H.; Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.; Ven Dhammissara Maduruoye
Astrology and medicine are intimately linked in as much as the science of healing forms an important part of remedial astrology. Principles and training of medical astrology is an intricatesubject that needs a great compact of knowledge and in-depth study. The main utility of medical astrology is to cosmic effects under different planetary conditions at the time of a disease are likely to be beneficial or detrimental to the patient and implement the diagnostic plan accordingly. This study was designed to review the astrological concepts that have been used to establish a correlation between the planets and diseases in terms of the signs of the zodiac that have shown a strong relationship with diseases and different parts of the human body. The review was based on notable manuscripts and other texts that contain descriptions of this relationship. The study revealed that the signs form the part of the body of the Kälpuruya starting from Aries and starting from the Ascendant. Thus an astrologer can foresee the possibility of a person liable to suffer before the onset of the disease. From the calculation of the period and sub-periods of the planets, he can determine the time of the onset of the disease and its duration on the basis of one's horoscope. Horoscope is a very potential instrument that can be used effectively in diagnostic and treatment plans. However, apart fromthe indications of the diseases that may be present in a horoscope, the astrologer must seriously analyze the transiting influences and the circumstances of the case on hand for accurate diagnosis. Thus it can be concluded that medical astrology, if used with a sense of proper understanding, can aid medical diagnosis.
The effect of learner factors on second language proficiency: an experimental study for formulating a viable theory/ model of second language learning
(2012) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
Effect of Yogasana on Improvement of Immunity related Outcomes – A Literature Review
(2nd International Research Conference & Exhibition on Siddha Medicine -2020, Organized by Unit of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna, Kaithady, Sri Lanka, 2020) Abegunasekara, N.S.; Samaranayake, G.V.P.; Dharmapriya, A.K.H.; Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.; Ven Dhammissara Maduruoye
Yoga is a universal practice which strengthens body physically as well as mentally. There is recent research evidence to suggest that regular practice of yoga postures strengthens the immune system and reduce chronic inflammation. ln fact, researchers have found an overall pattern that yoga duces pro-inflammatory markers, with the strongest evidence for the reduction of a cytokine called IL-Ibeta. This study was primarily designed to study the effect of Yogasana on enhancing immunity of the individual. An extensive literature review was conducted based onHathayogapradipikå journal papers and other related e-papers on yoga. All the Yogasanas mentioned in Hathayogapradipikåwere critically analyzed to determine a relationship between the regular practice of yoga posturesand the degree of immunity. The study revealed that the most effective yoga to activate the regular functions of the immune system is combination of Yogasanas, Pranayama and meditation. Further, practice of Yogasana increasesthe amount of antibodies such as leukocyte, eosinophils and monocytes and stimulate inflammatory responses. Yogasanas are also extremely beneficial to manage Stress which is often associated with an increased occurrence of autonomic and immune system pathology. On the basis of the review, it can be concluded that Yogasanas are effective in improving a variety of immune system-related outcome measures. However, these effects warrant further methodologically rigorous studies to determine the clinical implications of the findings for inflammatory outcomes
Effective Ayurveda Treatment Protocol for Hemorrhoids – A Case Study
(2nd International Research Conference & Exhibition on Siddha Medicine -2020, Organized by Unit of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna, Kaithady, Sri Lanka, 2020) Balasooriya, M.G.D.N.; Samaranayake, G.V.P.; Dharmapriya, A.K.H.; Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur in the anus and lower rectum. They can be external, appearing around the skin of the anus, or internal, arising in the lining of the anus or rectum. Hemorrhoid swelling occurs when there is an increase in the pressure in the small blood vessels causing them to swell and engorge with blood. The major causes of hemorrhoids include prolong constipation, poor dietary habits, lack of consumption of water and straining while defecation. The complications of hemorrhoids can be prevented by treating the hemorrhoids at early stage. This case study-assessed the efficacy of a treatment protocol used in the management of a 54-year-old male hemorrhoid patient presented at the surgery clinic of Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Teaching Hospital, Yakkala, Sri Lanka, complaining of permanent bulging out a mass after defecation along with rectal bleeding and mucus discharge. His medical history revealed that he has been subjected to constipation over a period of 4 years. On examination he was diagnosed with degree hemorrhoids in early stage. Treatments were scheduled both internal and external medication along with yoga. He was treated internally with Triphala churna, external application of Sarvavishadi oil and practicing Sarvangasana for ten minutes daily up to one-month period. After the treatment protocol, rectal bleeding and mucus discharge completely stopped and 3rd degree hemorrhoid was reduced to the 2nd degree hemorrhoid stage. Patient was followed up through one month and there were no any signs of advancing the stage of hemorrhoid. Triphala churna possesses the potential to purify blood and balance the vitiated doshas while Sarvavishadi oil reduces the inflammatory signs of hemorrhoids. Sarvangasana acts as a supportive medication to trigger the action of internal and external medication. It is suggested to design a clinical trial with a larger sample size in order to confirm the effect of this treatment protocol.
Has the trend of students working in groups produced real collaboration? A study based on web-related collaborative writing among second language learners
(University of Kelaniya, 2013) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.; Gamage, K.G.S.
Has the trend of students working in groups produced real collaboration? This has been a question raised over the years in second language classrooms. In fact, collaborative practices are being increasingly used in these learning settings. The rapid evolution of communication technologies has changed second language learning modes, enabling new forms of classroom interaction, and new ways to participate in learning situations. With new technologies available, learners can work more easily in groups of four or more, simultaneously. Also, new technologies allow researchers insight into the second language collaborative learning process. This study investigates the effectiveness of web-based collaborative writing assignments. The purpose of this study is to explore the changing nature of collaborative writing, and how it is influenced by web-based writing contexts. Twenty students in the first year BAMS program of the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute of the University of Kelaniya, and BA program of the Buddhist and Pali University, who learn English as a second language participated in this study. These subjects were asked to use a web-based word processing tool to collaboratively plan and report on a given written assignment. Group collaborative texts produced by these students in Google Docs will be analyzed to determine different patterns emerging from students’ collaborative writing behavior within web-based word processing. The contribution to the web-based word processing document by each student will be categorized based on the revision activity. Such contributions will be viewed in terms of language- based revision and content-based revision.
Learning style preferences with reference to learning English and Sanskrit Languages: A survey based study conducted among BAMS undergraduates of Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute
(12th Annual Research Conference, The Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lanka, 2019, 2019) Ven. Dhammissara, M.; Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.; Dharmapriya, A.K.H.
Language learning processes vary from person to person due to the existence of biological and psychological differences. Learning style can be viewed as a set of factors, behaviors, and attitudes that facilitate learning for an individual. These factors and attitudes include whether learners prefer aural style over visual style, and individualistic style over co-operative style. Jowkar (2012) conducted a study to explore the relationship between learning style preferences and comprehension strategies of Iranian learners of foreign languages and found that these two variables are positively correlated. Ehrman's (1994) study too suggested that learners with some identified styles had higher performance in speaking, while others performed comparatively better in reading. Most of these researchers seem to agree that some learners prefer visual style over aural style; these learners benefit by reading exposure to language over spoken exposure. Apart from that, learners who prefer individualistic style learn on their own without actively taking part in co-operative activities. Some learners are highly flexible in their-learning approach. This study was designed to investigate the hypothesis that preferences in selected learning styles of students learning Sanskrit and English are independent in learning each language.
Relationship between formal grammar instruction and development of second language competence: a preliminary study
(Research Symposium 2009 - Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2009) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
Second language learning involves the development of a mental system of grammar, which enables the learner to communicate. In formal teaching, grammar rules are presented to the learner to facilitate the formation of this mental system. The general assumption is that these rules will be readily available for automatic language production in communication. A preliminary study was designed to assess the relationship between these rules presented in instructional settings and the development of grammatical competence. Thirty learners studying English as a second language in BAMS course of Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute were randomly divided into two groups: experimental and control. Each group received three learning sessions: in the experimental group, the learners received formal instruction on the rules of reporting sentences, while the control group was only exposed to reading materials and activities where these grammar forms had been used. A pre-test, a post-test and a delayed post-test were conducted for each group. According to the comparison of pre and post test scores, a significant improvement (p<0.05) could be found only in the experimental group. However, the delayed post-test did not show significant improvement in any group. The results suggest that formal grammar instruction will have only an immediate effect on development of grammatical competence. This is possibly because the grammar rules presented in formal instruction have not been successfully incorporated into the long term memory of the learner. However, the study sample included only thirty students and therefore, we are not able to draw firm generalizations purely on the basis of these findings. Further studies can be designed to test the hypothesis that formal grammar instruction can have only an immediate effect.
Relationship between Mode of Assessment and Second Language Performance: An Analysis Based on the Student Performance in Advanced Level General English Paper
(Department of Linguistics, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.
General English paper, the paper for which the highest number of candidates (248482) appeared at GCE (A/L) examination in 2015, aimed at testing various language related abilities such as reading, vocabulary, grammar and writing skills. Both subjective and objective test items were included in the question paper. This study investigates the relationship between the types of test items and the student performance at this examination. The study is based on data obtained from the Research & Development Branch of the Department of Examinations, Sri Lanka. According to the data, facility indices for grammar (0.60), vocabulary (0.58) and reading skills (0.82) which were tested objectively are above the average. However, facility index for writing component (0.12) tested subjectively lies far below the average. A similar pattern could be identified in the analysis of student performances in previous examinations results (2012) too. The main issue arising from these data is the lower facility indices of subjective test items. While this can be interpreted in terms of examiner judgment variation, it is imperative to consider lower proficiency rates in productive skills. This suggests the performance gap between receptive skills and productive skills; students are able to recognise language elements in receptive modality but they are unable to produce them in communicative contexts. Unless the learners attain certain threshold level of proficiency, they are unlikely to convert language elements from „receptive form‟ to „productive form‟. The study identifies the need to incorporate appropriate strategies for development of productive skills into current teaching programmes.
Relationship on Sanskrit and English language proficiencies: a study conducted among selected BAMS undergraduates of Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute
(Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Dhammissara Thero, M.; Dissanayake, S.A.R.R.P.; Dharmapriya, A.K.H.; Peiris, R.M.; Udagedara, U.G.J.R.
Sanskrit language is an explosive source of knowledge of fundamentals of Ayurveda, while English language offers distinctive benefits to the present day Ayurveda scholar. Both Sanskrit and English languages are incorporated into the current BAMS course of Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute. In the first phase of the study programme, students are required to master basic grammar rules of both these languages. The primary purpose of this study was to compare the performances of Sanskrit and English languages on grammar-based language proficiency tests. The study examined the relationship of Sanskrit language proficiency and English language proficiency with 83 first year students following BAMS (2014/2015) course at this Institute. Students were tested on objective grammar items at the end of 15 weeks of instruction. The hypothesis was that there was a relationship between the performances of Sanskrit and those of English language. A two-tailed Pearson Correlation was performed. The comparison of two sets of test data showed that Sanskrit language proficiency scores were strongly correlated to English language test data (co-efficient of correlation, r = .590). The mean values of Sanskrit and English languages were 65.87 and 66.96 respectively. The significant p value (0.000) confirms the relationship between the two sets of test scores. This finding supports the claim that students who perform well in grammar based instruction in one language are able to acquire grammatical elements of the other language easily. However, further research can be carried out using a wider sample in order to arrive at firm generalizations.