Nāgānanda International Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences – Vol. VIII, Issue 04

Ms. Madhupali Sugandhika Cooray
Senior Lecturer in German Language, Department of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya.

Mr. Yalindu K. Jayaweera
Assistant Lecturer, B.A.(Hons) Development Studies, University of Kelaniya.

K.B.G. Wayani Saumya Kariyawasam
PhD Scholar, Yunnan Normal University, Yunnan, China.

K.Nishanthi
Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

P.P.G. Jayathilake
Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Danasekara D.R.A.K
Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Professor Dananjaya Gamalath
Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR).

Dr. Nayomi Kekulawala
Department of History, University of Kelaniya.

Srishan, G.A.A.N.
Department of Anthropology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.

Shaveeniya, T.P.P.
Department of Anthropology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.

Abhayasundere, P.N.
Department of Anthropology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.

Ms. Madhupali Sugandhika Cooray
Senior Lecturer in German Language, Department of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya.

Abstract:
This research investigates the impact of digital versus traditional print versions of Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales on German language learners, focusing on their engagement, comprehension, and language acquisition outcomes. By employing a mixed-methods approach that includes an internal SWOT analysis and structured interviews with both students and lecturers, the study explores the distinctive learning experiences facilitated by digital storytelling. The first phase of the research involved a SWOT analysis to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with using digital formats in language instruction. Key findings indicated that digital fairy tales significantly enhance learner engagement through interactive multimedia elements such as animations, audio narration, and subtitles. These features not only support vocabulary development and listening comprehension but also foster a deeper emotional connection to the narratives. The second phase involved interviews with 25 second-year German honors students and 5 experienced lecturers, revealing a strong preference among students for digital fairy tales. Participants highlighted the convenience and accessibility of digital formats, enabling them to engage with stories anytime and anywhere. The integration of audio and visual elements facilitated comprehension, allowing students to connect spoken and written language effectively. In contrast, lecturers emphasized the necessity of engaging with original printed texts to develop a rich vocabulary and cultural understanding, while recognizing the value of digital formats as supplementary materials that enhance listening skills and promote independent learning. Furthermore, the research revealed concerns regarding the potential limitations of digital formats on creativity and imagination, as students may rely on visual representations rather than engaging their imaginative faculties. Nonetheless, both students and educators acknowledged that innovative teaching strategies can be employed to maximize the benefits of each format, encouraging active participation and deeper learning. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of integrating digital and traditional fairy tales in German language education to create a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. By leveraging the strengths of both formats, educators can enhance language acquisition and foster a lifelong appreciation for storytelling among learners.

Keywords: Digital storytelling, fairy tales, German language education, learner engagement, language acquisition

Mr. Yalindu K. Jayaweera
Assistant Lecturer, B.A.(Hons) Development Studies, University of Kelaniya.

Abstract:
The Sinharaja Rainforest is a controversial ecosystem as one of the most important ecological regions in the world. It has been named a biodiversity hotspot in the world because of its high biodiversity and many environmental values. The Sinharaja Forest, which is a protected forest, is also an ecological region used for the tourism industry. Therefore, sustainable use should be emphasized over conservation. What should be the strategies to access the sustainable use and development of the biodiversity that needs to be conserved? The research was conducted with the aim of studying the possibilities of accessing the sustainable use and development of the biodiversity that needs to be conserved in relation to the research question. Using a mixed research methodology, primary data was collected through field studies, interviews, and unstructured discussions led by questionnaires in the Sinharaja Forest, and secondary data was collected through research articles, newspapers, and the Internet. The data was analyzed using Excel software and Excel software was used for data visualization. After analyzing the data, it was concluded that community awareness regarding sustainable use and conservation is at a very low level and that new strategic plans should be adopted by giving priority to sustainability in policy planning.

Keywords: Environment, Conservation, Sustainable Use, Policy, Sustainable Development

K.B.G. Wayani Saumya Kariyawasam
PhD Scholar, Yunnan Normal University, Yunnan, China.

Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on worldwide economies, public health, social well-being, and in particular education. Because of the rapid spread of the virus, educational facilities from the basic to the tertiary level have been closed since the beginning of As a result, most universities and academic institutions have moved to online Learning Management Systems (LMS). Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) was implemented at the University of Kelaniya to upload instructional materials and conduct online lectures. Because there are more than 200 students enrolled in the degree program, teaching Chinese language characters to beginner-level first-year undergraduates has been a difficult task. When compared to traditional Chinese character teaching methods, the new approach made it more difficult for teachers to teach because there was no face-to-face interaction with the students which hindered the opportunity for real-time group and one-on-one classroom feedback. Teaching Chinese characters in face-to-face sessions involves the four abilities of language learning – listening, speaking, reading, and writing. As a result, CAL-based online Chinese character teaching has run into several stumbling blocks, with students reporting difficulty understanding numerous meanings, pronunciations, and stroke patterns. Therefore, this study aimed to look into Sri Lankan students’ opinions of learning Chinese characters online to come up with innovative teaching methods to address the difficulties. The research sample comprised 60 first-year undergraduates enrolled in the University of Kelaniya’s Department of Modern Languages Bachelor of Arts (B.A) General Degree program. A questionnaire was used to obtain the information. The findings of the research encountered that identifying the correct usage of stroke patterns was the most difficult task of learning Chinese characters online. Apart from that, some students struggled to accurately pronounce the characters’ sounds and distinguish between similar character meanings. Furthermore, the students were demotivated by the repeat of errors made while writing Chinese characters, as the teacher was not given the opportunity to rectify each student’s errors individually. Through the research findings, it can be suggested that novel teaching approaches suitable for online teaching of Chinese characters should be integrated into the B. A General Degree first-year course modules to make the learning of Chinese characters an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

Keywords: COVID-19, Chinese characters, Chinese as a foreign language, Online teaching, Students’ Perceptions

K.Nishanthi
Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

P.P.G. Jayathilake
Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Danasekara D.R.A.K
Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Abstract:
Vegetation plays a vital role in ecosystems by regulating water, carbon, and nitrogen biogeochemical cycles and serving as the foundation of food chains. However, urbanization and infrastructure development often result in significant land cover changes, posing challenges to environmental sustainability. This study investigates land cover dynamics in the Hambantota Municipal Council (MC) area, strategically located near major global shipping routes. Specifically, the study examines changes in vegetation and built-up areas over three time periods: 2001, 2013, and 2024. The objective is to understand the environmental impacts of urbanization driven by projects like the Hambantota Port and City Center development. Using satellite imagery and secondary datasets, the study employed Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Urban Index (UI) analyses to assess land cover and urbanization trends. Findings reveal significant vegetation loss between 2001 and 2013 due to accelerated development, followed by stabilization from 2013 to 2024, attributed to structured urban planning and conservation efforts. Despite these improvements, wetland areas declined notably by 2024. The study recommends integrating infrastructure development with conservation strategies, including reforestation, habitat protection, community engagement, and adaptive management, to ensure sustainable growth while minimizing environmental degradation.

Keywords: NDVI, UI, Vegetation dynamics, Urbanization, Hambantota port

Professor Dananjaya Gamalath
Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR).

Dr. Nayomi Kekulawala
Department of History, University of Kelaniya.

Abstract:
Among the Buddhist monasteries in Sri Lanka, it can be said that the Maha Vihara type monastery was the first type of Buddhist monastic organization established by King Devanampiyatissa in the third century BC according to the instructions of Arahath Mahinda. According to the system and spatial organization of this first Sangharama established in Maha Meghawana Garden with Anuradhapura Maha Vihara as the center, Buddhist monastery of the Maha Vihara system were born in Tissamaharama’s Magama Kingdom and then in Polonnaruwa, Padduvas Nuwara and Ramba Vihara. The expansion of monasteries of the Anuradhapura Maha Vihara system is notable from Abhayagiri Vihara and Jethavana Vihara, as well as sub-monasteries such as Thuparamaya and Lankaramaya. The main characteristic of this monastery type is that it is located in the plains outside of a major city. We have shown here how the Anuradhapura Maha Vihara monastery had first shaped the spatial organization according to the Theravada philosophy and how the buildings on the Maha Vihara site had been organized according to the plan called Sinha Wickrantha according to a Mahayana context from the 5th century AD.

Keywords: Malaka, Mahameghevana, puraya, Panchavasa, Upa-Panchayatana, Sinha Vikrantha

Srishan, G.A.A.N.
Department of Anthropology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.

Shaveeniya, T.P.P.
Department of Anthropology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.

Abhayasundere, P.N.
Department of Anthropology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.

Abstract:
In Sri Lanka, a culturally rich country, the concept of deities associated with folk religion is prevalent. It is common to see the Sinhalese, Tamil and Christian people perform rituals to deities rooted in their religions and to certain gods and goddesses worshipped locally. In Islam, the concept of ‘gods’ does not exist beyond the one supreme deity ‘Allah’. Islam is strictly monotheistic, emphasizing the worship of a single, indivisible God, referred to as Allah in Arabic. However, a local deity named Gale Bandara, who is worshipped by Muslims in Sri Lanka and is believed to have Muslim origins, has joined the pantheon of gods in Sri Lanka. The aim of this research is to study the Muslim people’s beliefs and folklore surrounding the Gale Bandara deity, who is also worshipped by Muslims despite their monotheistic religious background. The research question for this study is: What folk cultural factors influence the worship of the Gale Bandara deity by Muslim people with a monotheistic religious background? Data for this descriptive research conducted using qualitative data were gathered from primary sources, such as interviews and observations, and secondary sources, such as books. The basis for this research is the two historical Gale Bandara Devalas (Sinhala and Muslim) located in Kurunegala. Data were collected by selecting 20 data contributors under purposive sampling, including the Dewala’s priests, devotees, and local people. The Sinhala version of Gale Bandara’s legend emphasizes his royal lineage and tragic death, which ultimately leads to his deification. This version connects deeply with Sinhala Buddhist culture, portraying Gale Bandara as a protector deity with strong ties to the land and its people. In contrast, the Muslim version of the legend, while sharing some elements with the Sinhala narrative, emphasizes his Muslim heritage and the continuation of Islamic traditions through his veneration as a saint-like figure. The dual nature of Gale Bandara, rooted in both Sinhala and Muslim traditions, reflects a unique blend of cultural syncretism that transcends religious boundaries, offering a symbol of unity in a region often marked by religious and ethnic divisions. Although Muslims perform their worship in a monotheistic religious setting, it can be concluded from the research data that the Sri Lankan Muslim community has received influences from local worship practices, etc., prevalent in Sri Lankan society through cultural diffusion.

Keywords: Gale Bandara, deity concept, Muslim tradition, Beliefs, folklore