The 16th International Research Conference at the Kothalawala Defence University, hosted by the Language Department, brought together scholars and educators for a day of insightful discussions and presentations. The conference featured two impactful Technical Sessions dedicated to TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).

The first session, expertly chaired by Dr. Darshana Samaraweera, Deputy Director General of the National Institute of Education, Sri Lanka, commenced with an introduction of the chair, setting the tone for a day of knowledge sharing. This was followed by preliminary remarks from Dr. Samaraweera, highlighting the significance of the event.

The session then delved into a series of research presentations. HMCP Jayawardena presented an analysis of technology utilization in Sri Lankan State Universities’ English Teaching and Learning process. EMPE Ekanayake explored the concept of Sri Lankan English as the standard/model for language assessment in English Language Teaching, shedding light on the challenges of teacher resistance.

GK Nayanathara, RLABD Nilmanthi, DAAKL Dassanayake, and SMR Raleesha discussed the effectiveness of teaching vocabulary using a Presentation, Production, and Practice Approach in a Blended Learning Environment. GHGP Poornima and SM Gamage focused on Technology-Mediated Vocabulary Assessment in Second Language Teaching. RATP Rajapaksha, KJAVO Jayakody, and NM Ranasinghe explored the integration of blended learning tools for formative feedback on students’ writing in secondary level English Language Teaching textbooks in Sri Lanka.

The second Technical Session, presided over by Prof. Chitra Jayathilake from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, continued the academic discourse in the field of TESOL. It commenced with an introduction of Prof. Jayathilake, followed by her preliminary remarks, emphasizing the importance of linguistic research.

This session featured presentations that explored various aspects of English Language Teaching and linguistic research in Sri Lanka. HMR Gunawardana and SK Amarasena conducted a detailed study on the effect of Sri Lanka’s Official Language Policy on English Language usage in the Land and District Registry, focusing on the Nuwara‐Eliya District. SD Peththawadu, ARWMMWP Amarakoon, and NMTA Perera discussed the teaching of idiomatic expressions in Teaching English as a Second Language.

UGWR Jayathilleka, WE Hidellararachhi, and VU Jayasinghe examined the factors promoting speaking competence in Sri Lanka’s National Languages. RVARK Pathirana and SS Lokuliyana investigated the features of academic writing among undergraduates..

The sessions concluded with an engaging Questions and Answer Session, providing attendees with the opportunity to delve deeper into the research presented. Dr. Darshana Samaraweera and Prof. Chitra Jayathilake as the Session Chairs, summed up the key takeaways, leaving participants with valuable insights to ponder. Afterward, attendees had the chance to network and refuel during a refreshing break.