Browsing by Author "Dayapathirana, N"

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Building tomorrow’s sustainable tourism today: analyzing tourists’ perceptions through online reviews
(Emerald Publishing, 2025-08-12) Jagoda, J; Jayasuriya, N; Dayapathirana, N
urpose Sustainable tourism enhances environmental sustainability, cultural integrity and community well-being, fostering accountable travel experiences. The narrow profit margins in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector necessitate strategies that meet tourists' needs amid market volatility. This research investigates key challenges and solution approaches for sustainable tourism to help Sri Lanka position its tourism industry as a global leader. Design/methodology/approach The research extracted data by reviewing Sri Lankan tourist destinations posted on leading travel websites. An analysis of the quantitative content involved binary coding, optimal scaling and path analysis, using a sample of 384 participants. Findings The research uncovered six main factors, including government responsibilities, social enhancement, destination management, environmental preservation, cultural preservation and service quality. The six key recommendations for improving beach tourism include reasonable pricing, adequate law enforcement, pollution control and measures for protecting tourist attractions, animals and cultural heritage. Research limitations/implications This study is limited to content analysis of online tourist reviews and may not capture the perspectives of all stakeholders, suggesting the need for future multi-source qualitative research. Practical implications The findings provide actionable insights for tourism authorities and service providers to improve destination management, pricing transparency and service quality, thereby aligning with sustainable tourism goals. Social implications The study emphasizes the importance of inclusive tourism strategies that protect cultural heritage and promote community participation. Originality/value The research has established a quantitative method for studying sustainable tourism perspectives among tourists. This study will guide public sector and industrial organizations in their resource management decisions.
Open Access
Does social media information credibility influence social commerce purchase intention of skincare products? Evidence from Facebook
(Public Library of Science, 2025-10-22) Ranjith, P; Nisansala, S; Jayasingha, N; Weerasekara, K; Wisenthige, K; Dayapathirana, N
Social commerce is transforming consumer purchasing behaviours by blending social media interactivity with e-commerce functionalities, and most purchases today are evidently facilitated through social media platforms with ease. Recognising the importance of credibility in skin-related purchases, this study aims to examine how social media information credibility factors, specifically source credibility and electronic word of mouth (e WOM) credibility, influence consumers’ purchase intentions for skincare products on Facebook, considering the mediating roles of trust in online communities and perceived privacy risk. Primary data were collected through a structured survey from 384 skincare purchasers who made their purchases via Facebook, and the model was tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). Further, the results reveal that source credibility, e WOM credibility, and trust in online communities positively influence social commerce purchase intention (SCPI), while perceived risk has a negative effect. Trust in online communities also reduces perceived risk and mediates the relationship between information credibility and purchase intention. Hence, these findings highlight the pivotal roles of trust and risk perceptions in shaping online consumer behaviour in the social commerce space, especially within the skincare market. The study emphasises the need for businesses to leverage credible information sources and build trustworthy online communities to enhance consumer confidence and engagement. Moreover, it contributes to the growing literature on social commerce by offering insights from an emerging market context, Sri Lanka, and suggests future research into broader dimensions of credibility and cultural comparisons to deepen the understanding of social commerce.
Embargo
Exploring the Usage of AI Tools in Education: Insights from Gen Z Undergraduates in Sri Lanka
(University of Nigeria Department of Mass Communication, 2025-06-02) Nishshanka, N; Karunarathna, N; Dayapathirana, N; Karunarathna, R. V; Hewage, H. K; Anthony, P
Background: This study investigates the patterns of use and adoption of AI tools in Sri Lanka, with a special emphasis on Generation Z undergraduates who will enter the industry next. As AI is an emerging technology, how this generation interacts with and enriches knowledge through AI tools becomes a vital area of concern. Objective: To identify key subjective factors influencing the adoption and usage of AI tools in education among Gen Z undergraduates in Sri Lanka. Methodology: This study employs qualitative research methods, specifically semi-structured interviews, to gather insights from 18 university students across various disciplines. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes related to undergraduates' subjective experiences, benefits received, and attitudes, for which MAXQDA is used as the analytical software. Results: The findings demonstrate four key subjective factors that influence adoption and usage, such as academic work, awareness and adoption, challenges and risk, and helpful and supportive factors. The frequently used AI tool in Sri Lanka was noted as ChatGPT, which showed a high usage pattern in the analysis. Conclusion: Understanding the usage patterns and adoption factors helps the community use AI tools effectively, as it makes them aware of the risks and helpful factors. Also, the facilities that aid in adopting these AI tools could elevate the efficiency of their usage by making many students, future undergraduates, AI developers, and educational institutions aware of its benefits. Unique Contribution: This research provides insights for future research by helping to understand the usage of emerging AI tools among Gen Z undergraduates in a developing country like Sri Lanka. The findings can be applied to understanding different generations and emerging generations, such as Generation Alpha.
Open Access
Quantitative Action Research on Enhancing French Vocabulary Acquisition: The Efficacy of Flashcard-Based Learning Among Undergraduates
(University of Windsor, 2025-11-18) Dayapathirana, N; Prabodini, M; Poornima, S
This quantitative action research investigates the effectiveness of a flashcard-based intervention in enhancing French vocabulary acquisition among Sri Lankan undergraduate learners. A sample of 60 beginner and intermediate French students was selected through convenience sampling. The study employed pre-test and post-test design, including a control group, with data analyzed using paired-samples t-tests and ANOVA. Over four weeks, participants engaged in a structured flashcard program incorporating French words, English translations, and visual aids. The results demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in vocabulary knowledge, affirming the efficacy of flashcards as a language-learning tool. The action research approach allowed for iterative refinement of the intervention, ensuring its relevance and applicability in real-world educational settings. Additionally, a positive correlation was identified between students' attitudes towards flashcard use and vocabulary gains. These findings contribute to the ongoing development of practical strategies for vocabulary instruction, with implications for language educators seeking to enhance student outcomes through evidence-based practices.
Open Access
Restoring life expectancy in low-income countries: the combined impact of COVID-19, health expenditure, GDP, and child mortality
(BioMed Central Ltd, 2025-03-06) Karunarathne, M.; Buddhika, P; Priyamantha, A; Mayogya, P; Jayathilaka, R; Dayapathirana, N
Background: Life expectancy is a vital indicator of a country’s health and progress. Low-income countries face uncertainty regarding the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by health expenditure levels, concerns over rising child mortality rates, and decreasing per capita income. These factors challenge life expectancy and demand urgent attention. This study aims to identify patterns, challenges, and opportunities to improve life expectancy in these countries through better health policies and resource allocation. Methods: The research investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, health expenditure, per capita income, and child mortality rates on life expectancy in low-income countries. By examining 22 years of data from 20 countries, using a comprehensive dataset from the Our World in Data database, this study employs panel regression and time series analysis to explore how these factors influence life expectancy. Results: The findings indicate a significant negative effect of COVID-19 on life expectancy, while health expenditure and per capita income show a positive impact. Conversely, child mortality rates exert a negative effect on life expectancy in low-income countries. Conclusion: This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by analysing how COVID-19, health expenditure, per capita income, and child mortality collectively affect life expectancy in low-income countries. The insights gained may inform policymakers and health consultants about the need for targeted interventions, prioritising healthcare investment and child health. By addressing these critical areas, it may be possible to improve life expectancy and overall health outcomes, thus contributing to global health equity. © The Author(s) 2025.
Open Access
Restoring life expectancy in low‑income countries: the combined impact of COVID‑19, health expenditure, GDP, and child mortality
(PubMed, 2025-03-06) Karunarathne, M; Buddhika, P; Priyamantha, A; Mayogya, P; Jayathilaka, R; Dayapathirana, N
Background: Life expectancy is a vital indicator of a country's health and progress. Low-income countries face uncertainty regarding the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by health expenditure levels, concerns over rising child mortality rates, and decreasing per capita income. These factors challenge life expectancy and demand urgent attention. This study aims to identify patterns, challenges, and opportunities to improve life expectancy in these countries through better health policies and resource allocation.
Open Access
The impact of video game addiction on aggressive behaviour among tertiary students in Sri Lanka
(Discover, 2026-01-30) Fonseka, W.Y.S; Hathurusinghe, B.M; Weerarathna, R.S; Rathnayake, R.M.N.M; Samindika, H.R.T; Ramasingha, L.T.D; Jayasuriya, N.U; Kumarapperuma, C; Dayapathirana, N
This research examines the impact of video game addiction on aggressive behaviour of tertiary students in Sri Lanka. Video game addiction, with its potential adverse impacts has raised concerns among the public, especially regarding its link to aggressive behaviour. Data was gathered from a sample of 382 undergraduates of local non-state universities selected employing cluster sampling technique to examine the correlation between video game addiction and aggression. The survey was conducted to collect data on video game addiction and aggression. Research findings reveal how gaming addiction leads to aggressive behaviour in addicted gamers indicating a strong positive relationship between video game addiction and aggressive behaviour. Therefore, researchers recommend balanced time management practices between game usage and other daily essential activities and promoting awareness about negative behavioural implication of game addiction. It is expected that this study provides insights to stakeholders including teachers, parents, and administrators to better understand the effects of video game addiction, and mitigation strategies to minimise the negative impact on students’ behaviour.
Open Access
The role of platform interactivity in enhancing trust: unlocking purchase intentions for skincare products on Facebook
(Cogent OA, 2025-10-07) Jayasingha, N; Kavindiya, W; Ranjith, D.P; Pathiranage, S.N; Wisenthige, K; Dayapathirana, N
Social commerce, which integrates social media with e-commerce, has transformed how consumers engage with brands and make purchasing decisions. In Sri Lanka, the skincare product market on Facebook has seen significant growth, emphasizing the need to understand the factors influencing consumer purchase intention. This study explores how social media, perceived usefulness and platform interactivity influence trust in the seller and, in turn, affect social commerce purchase intention. Using purposive sampling, the study targeted active Facebook users who purchase skincare products. An online questionnaire was administered to 384 such users. Using structural equation modelling, the study found that perceived usefulness and platform interactivity significantly enhance trust in sellers. Additionally, trust in the seller plays a mediating role between these factors and purchase intention. The study offers theoretical contributions by extending the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) into a high-involvement product context. The findings highlight that a more interactive and engaging platform experience increases consumer confidence in online sellers, ultimately encouraging purchase behavior. Social media platforms like Facebook not only provide a space for product promotion but also serve as trust-building environments through user engagement and perceived usefulness. This study finds that useful and interactive Facebook posts build trust and lead to more skincare product purchases. Brands should post better content to earn trust and boost sales. For businesses, especially skincare brands operating in social commerce environments, this study offers practical insights into developing strategies focused on enhancing platform interactivity and trust to drive consumer engagement and intention to purchase.
Embargo
Understanding AI Chatbot Adoption in Education: The Role of Perceived Usefulness, Ease of Use, and Anthropomorphic Tendencies
(Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc., 2025) Vidarshika, W; Dayapathirana, N; Ranasinghe, A
This paper aims to highlight the underlying factors influencing AI-based ChatGPT usage behavior, considering the role of anthropomorphic tendency. It addresses existing gaps in AI literature, which has underexplored the anthropomorphization of nonhuman agents with human features in AI-based teaching and learning. This study extends the Technological Acceptance Model (TAM) integrating anthropomorphism tendency on usage behavior of ChatGPT of undergraduates. Empirical examination with Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed that perception of ease of use and usefulness positively impact on attitudes and attitudes positively impacts on AI ChatGPT usage behavior in higher education. Furthermore, the novelty brings for the study with the anthropomorphism tendency as a moderator positively moderates perception of usefulness and ease of use on AI ChatGPT usage behavior in higher education. As the main theoretical contributions of the study this study contributes for the Technological Acceptance Model (TAM) identifying perceived ease of use and usefulness towards attitude and usage behavior and bringing anthropomorphism tendency for the model as moderator as one of lack of focused area in extant literature in AI based ChatGPT. Also, this study provides valuable insights for the designers of AI based ChatGPT in embedding the humanistic feature in enhancing the usefulness and ease of use towards their attitudes and usage behavior
Embargo
Voice from the Control Room : Government Officials' Perspectives on How Politics, Funding and Technology Shape Sri Lanka's Transport Future
(Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc., 2025) Bandara, S; Perera, Y; Premathilaka, H; Wijethunga, J; Karunarathna, N; Dayapathirana, N
The daily struggles of Sri Lanka's public transpo rtation system affect millions of lives, yet the voices of those who run it often go unheard. This study spoke with eight senior government officials from the National Transport Commission and Ceylon Government Railways to uncover what happens behind the scenes. Through detailed interviews, three main problems weighing on their minds were identified: political interference disrupts their work, money shortages block necessary improvements, and finally, worker satisfaction has hit rock bottom. Many transport workers feel stuck with low wages and unclear career paths, which makes it hard to keep services running smoothly. However, it is not all about bad news. These officials shared smart ideas about fixing issues, from better resource management to innovative technology implementation that could help riders track their buses and trains. They believe Sri Lanka's public transport can improve with the right changes. This research study goes beyond just listing problems - we talked to people who live these challenges every day and know what needs to change. Their stories show that improving public transport is not just about new buses or trains; it is about supporting the people who keep everything moving, listening to what riders need, and Equipping transport workers with the required equipment to perform their jobs well.