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Effectiveness of School Feeding Programs on Student Participation and Academic Performance in Selected Schools of Sri Lanka Olokku Patabendige, Dileepa Thathsara; K.S.H.M.Vihare Walawwe Walter Senevirathne
Sumatera Medical Journal Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): Sumatera Medical Journal (SUMEJ)
Publisher : Talenta Publisher

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.32734/sumej.v9i1.21148

Abstract

Background: School nutrition programs are recognized for improving students’ health, yet their direct contribution to educational outcomes, particularly in remote and low-income junior secondary schools, remains insufficiently explored. Objective: This study investigates how school feeding programs influence student participation and academic performance. Methods: A mixed-methods explanatory design was used to compare schools with and without feeding programs. The sample consisted of 110 students, 25 teachers, and 20 parents from four socioeconomically diverse schools. Data were collected over three months through surveys, structured interviews, classroom observations, and analysis of attendance and academic records. Results: Findings indicated a 20% reduction in absenteeism and a 15% increase in average test scores in schools implementing nutrition programs. Students reported improved concentration and engagement, and teachers observed enhanced participation and fewer behavioural issues. Conclusions: School nutrition programs significantly support student learning and attendance. Integrating and expanding such initiatives, particularly in underserved areas, may further strengthen academic outcomes and overall student development.
The Impact of Digital Tools on Student Engagement in Secondary Schools of Sri Lanka: Dampak Alat Digital terhadap Keterlibatan Siswa di Sekolah Menengah di Sri Lanka Olokku Patabendige, Dileepa Thathsara
SiRad: Pelita Wawasan February (Vol. 2 No. 1, 2026)
Publisher : Yayasan Nurul Musthafa

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.64728/sirad.v2i1.art4

Abstract

In Sri Lanka, the use of digital learning tools in secondary schools has been increasing, but their impact on student engagement is not fully understood. This study aimed to examine how digital learning tools affect cognitive, emotional, and behavioural engagement of students. A mixed-methods design was used, combining quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 120 students from Grades 9 to 11 were selected using simple random sampling, and 10 teachers were selected purposively for interviews. Quantitative data were collected through a structured student engagement questionnaire and analysed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics and paired sample t-tests were applied to compare engagement levels before and after using digital tools. The results showed a significant increase in overall student engagement (p < 0.05), with improvements in attention, interest, participation, and motivation during digitally supported lessons. Qualitative data from teacher interviews and classroom observations supported these findings, highlighting that digital tools made lessons more interactive and engaging. Challenges such as limited access to devices and lack of teacher training were also reported. The study concludes that digital learning tools can positively enhance student engagement in Sri Lankan secondary schools if teachers are trained and schools provide proper infrastructure. The findings suggest the need for policies and support systems to make digital learning effective and inclusive. [Di Sri Lanka, penggunaan alat pembelajaran digital di sekolah menengah terus meningkat, namun dampaknya terhadap keterlibatan siswa belum sepenuhnya dipahami. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji bagaimana alat pembelajaran digital memengaruhi keterlibatan kognitif, emosional, dan perilaku siswa. Desain metode campuran (mixed-methods) digunakan dengan menggabungkan data kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Sebanyak 120 siswa dari Kelas 9 hingga 11 dipilih menggunakan pengambilan sampel acak sederhana, dan 10 guru dipilih secara purposif untuk diwawancarai. Data kuantitatif dikumpulkan melalui kuesioner keterlibatan siswa yang terstruktur dan dianalisis menggunakan SPSS. Statistik deskriptif dan uji-t sampel berpasangan diterapkan untuk membandingkan tingkat keterlibatan sebelum dan sesudah menggunakan alat digital. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan peningkatan yang signifikan dalam keterlibatan siswa secara keseluruhan ($p < 0,05$), dengan peningkatan pada aspek perhatian, minat, partisipasi, dan motivasi selama pelajaran yang didukung secara digital. Data kualitatif dari wawancara guru dan observasi kelas mendukung temuan ini, menyoroti bahwa alat digital membuat pelajaran menjadi lebih interaktif dan menarik. Tantangan seperti akses terbatas ke perangkat dan kurangnya pelatihan guru juga dilaporkan. Studi ini menyimpulkan bahwa alat pembelajaran digital dapat meningkatkan keterlibatan siswa secara positif di sekolah menengah Sri Lanka jika guru dilatih dan sekolah menyediakan infrastruktur yang memadai. Temuan ini menyarankan perlunya kebijakan dan sistem pendukung untuk membuat pembelajaran digital menjadi efektif dan inklusif.]