Research Publications Authored by SLIIT Staff
Permanent URI for this communityhttps://rda.sliit.lk/handle/123456789/4195
This collection includes all SLIIT staff publications presented at external conferences and published in external journals. The materials are organized by faculty to facilitate easy retrieval.
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Publication Embargo From Learners to Earners: The Role of Education in Shaping Online Freelancers within the Gig Economy(University of Nigeria Department of Mass Communication, 2026-01-05) Dasanayaka, L.N; Madanayake, T.B; Jayasekara, K.G; Ileperuma, T.D; Chandrasiri, R; Bandara, GIn developing nations, education systems prioritise employability over broader academic goals, often overlooking the preparation needed for freelance platforms. Yet, the digital economy presents a rapidly expanding avenue for youth employment and economic empowerment. This systemic oversight leaves many undergraduates unprepared to capitalise on the increasing global demand for digital and professional freelance services. Objective: This study aims to identify the attitudes, behaviours, and skills that undergraduates need to succeed in online freelancing, addressing the knowledge gap between the popularity of digital self-employment and the factors driving undergraduate success in this field. Methodology: This study employed an inductive approach, focusing on undergraduate freelancers in Sri Lanka. Snowball sampling was utilised to select 21 participants, and in-depth interviews were conducted to collect data. The data were subsequently analysed using NVivo thematic analysis, with analysis continuing until saturation was reached. Results: The results of this study revealed six key themes that significantly impact making an online freelance career for undergraduates in Sri Lanka: (I) Growth Mindset, (II) Work-life balance, (III) Flexibility, (IV) Effective Communication, (V) Proactive engagement and (VI) Developing Core Competencies Conclusion: Although the rising popularity of freelancing online among undergraduates is a significant trend, success is primarily attributed to various factors that enable freelancers to reach their full potential. Addressing these factors will be the solution to helping undergraduates navigate the online freelancing field. Unique Contribution: This study makes a significant contribution by empirically identifying and systematically categorising the key competencies required for undergraduate success in transitioning to online freelancing. It provides a novel, evidence-based framework for educators and policymakers seeking to prepare students for sustainable career opportunities and economic empowerment in the digital economy (SDG 8). © 2025, University of Nigeria Department of Mass Communication. All rights reserved.Publication Embargo Exploring Parents' and Teachers' Attitudes and Expectations Regarding Inclusive Education in Colombo(Faculty of Humanities and Sciences - SLIIT, 2021-03-26) Peiris, A.N.; Pandithakoralage, S.C.The study aimed to explore teachers’ attitudes and parents’ expectations regarding inclusive education. In total 8 participants were interviewed regarding their attitudes and expectations of inclusive education. 4 participants were mainstreamed teachers that have a child or children with special educational needs present in the classroom and 4 participants were parents that have a child with a diagnosis that requires special educational needs, attends school and is in a mainstreamed classroom, while receiving extra help at school. The results were analyzed using Thematic Analysis. Data analysis highlighted four themes: Improved Communication, Adequate Resources and Support, Education and Awareness and Roles of Schools. It was evident that there are multiple gaps that need to be bridged as there is a significant discrepancy between how the education of students with special needs should be approached and how students are being approached. Parents expectations of teachers and schools are clearly stated, and teachers showed promising characteristics to change neutral or negative attitude toward inclusive education if their expectations are met. As inclusive education is a fairly new practice, the study aimed to determine common attitudes and expectations between parents and teachers in order to help the development of inclusive education in Colombo. Future implications of the study are discussed.