Investigating the Preference of Using English for Entertainment Among Undergraduates: A Case Study Based on 3000 Level Undergraduates of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University Of Ruhuna

Abstract

The study investigated the preference for using English for entertainment among 3000 level undergraduates in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Ruhuna. Improvement of the English knowledge is a must for high quality graduate and using English for entertainment activities is one of the best ways to improve the English language. The aim was to understand how using English for entertainment activities can improve language skills. The study focused on the preference for watching films, reading novels, listening to songs, and listening to motivational speeches in English among the undergraduates. Data were collected through a Google form, and 210 students were randomly selected as the sample using simple random sampling, statistical and graphical methods were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that the willingness to use English for entertainment activities among the undergraduates was relatively low compared to using the Sinhala language. Students showed a preference for watching Bollywood movies, reading Sinhala novels, and listening to Sinhala songs. English movies, novels, and songs had lower preference rates. Motivational speeches in both Sinhala and English had a relatively equal preference. These findings suggest that students in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Ruhuna have less inclination to use English for entertainment purposes. Through the study, it is concluded that usage of English for entertainment among undergraduates among 3000 level undergraduates is relatively low. Based on the conclusions drawn from the study, it is recommended that students be encouraged to use English more often for entertainment activities. Awareness should be raised about the importance of English proficiency for various aspects of academic and professional life. Creating English clubs and providing opportunities for students to practice English through singing songs, reading novels, and discussing literature could help improve language skills and confidence in using English. In conclusion, the study highlights the need to promote the use of English for entertainment among undergraduates in order to enhance their language fluency and overall proficiency.