Abstract:
This study explores student perceptions of the prescribed literary texts in the G.C.E.
(O/L) English Literature curriculum in Sri Lankan government schools,
emphasizing their interests, preferences, and motivational orientations. A mixed
method study methodology was used to gain an in-depth understanding, including
both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A stratified random
sampling method was used to guarantee representation from various school types
and student demographics, resulting in a quantitative sample of 120 students from
Grades 10 and 11 across six government schools in the Central Province. Data were
gathered using a standardized questionnaire to assess students' overall
perceptions of the curriculum content. The results indicated an array of responses:
some students appreciated the texts for their educational value, but many deemed
them outdated, linguistically complex, or culturally irrelevant. To elucidate these
tendencies and gain more insights, the research used a purposive sampling method
in the qualitative phase, choosing 18 students and 6 English Literature teachers for
comprehensive semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The
qualitative results indicated an apparent preference among students for modern,
relevant texts and underscored the influence of cultural relevance, personal interest,
and accessibility on student motivation. Educators highlighted similar concerns,
highlighting limitations imposed by a rigid curriculum and the need for greater
flexibility in selecting texts. The amalgamation of both data sets provided a
comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities in teaching literature
within the existing curriculum. The research indicates that academic programs
should use a more student-centered and culturally relevant methodology, connecting
texts with students' life experiences and linguistic abilities. The results possess
practical implications for syllabus reform, curriculum development, and classroom
practices, with the objective of enhancing student engagement and learning
outcomes in English Literature across Sri Lanka's educational system.
