A Critical Analysis of Professor Jayadeva Uyangoda’s Contributions to Social Research
Introduction
Do research methods feel confusing? Terms like positivism, epistemology, and methodology can overwhelm even the most diligent students. You’re not alone. Many students struggle to see how social research applies to real life.
Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda’s Social Research changes that. Grounded in Sri Lanka’s context, it explains why research matters and connects theory to society. Paired with Dr. Darshana’s explanatory video, students can now learn these concepts clearly and practically.
Who is Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda?
Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda is a prominent scholar in Sri Lankan sociology and political science. His work bridges rigorous methodology with an understanding of Sri Lanka’s social realities.
His book, Social Research, guides students through complex concepts, emphasizing local examples to make sociology relatable. It shows that research is not a foreign concept it’s a tool to understand and improve society.
Why Social Research Matters
Social research is key to understanding how societies function, why social problems exist, and how people interact. It’s practical, influencing policies, education, and community development.
Prof. Uyangoda emphasizes that research promotes critical thinking. Students learn to question norms, analyze society, and contribute to social change. Research bridges the gap between theory and reality, empowering learners to participate meaningfully in society.
Key Insights from the Book
- Sociology as a Science
Sociology is a scientific study of society, not just opinions. Systematic observation and evidence allow researchers to uncover reliable insights.
- Philosophy Behind Research
Understanding epistemology and methodology helps students critically assess research approaches and apply methods appropriately.
- Why Research is Necessary
Research answers why society functions as it does and guides effective interventions in education, governance, and social programs.
- Major Methods Explained
Methods like surveys, interviews, observations, and case studies are explained clearly. Dr. Darshana’s video demonstrates how these methods apply to real-world Sri Lankan contexts.
Why This Book is Special in the Sri Lankan Context
What sets Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda’s Social Research apart is its strong grounding in Sri Lanka’s social realities. While many sociology textbooks rely heavily on Western examples and contexts, this book focuses on issues that matter locally from social hierarchies and education systems to migration patterns and political dynamics.
By using Sri Lankan case studies, Prof. Uyangoda makes research relatable and applicable. Students can see the direct connection between theory and the society around them, which helps them understand abstract concepts more clearly. This local perspective also ensures that research findings are meaningful and actionable within the Sri Lankan context, rather than just replicating foreign models.
Furthermore, the book encourages critical thinking about local social problems. It challenges students to question assumptions, explore cultural nuances, and consider how global theories interact with Sri Lanka’s unique social structures. This makes the book not only an academic resource but also a practical guide for anyone seeking to understand and improve society in Sri Lanka.
Conclusion
Social research doesn’t have to feel abstract or intimidating. Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda’s Social Research provides a clear, locally grounded guide that connects sociological theory to the realities of Sri Lankan society. By focusing on why research matters, explaining philosophical foundations, and outlining practical methods, the book equips students and educators with the tools to study society meaningfully.
Dr. Darshana’s video further enhances this learning experience by breaking down complex concepts into simple, relatable examples. Together, the book and video offer a roadmap for anyone looking to understand and conduct social research with confidence.
If you’re a student, educator, or budding researcher in Sri Lanka, engaging with both resources will not only strengthen your understanding of sociology but also empower you to explore and analyze your society thoughtfully. Don’t just memorize theory watch, learn, and apply. Social research is not just a subject; it’s a way to understand and shape the world around you.
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Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Darshana, [Dr.]. (2025, September 15). Exploring social research with Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/pNef3tvEHBs
Uyangoda, J. (2017). Social research. Social Science Publications.
Dr. Darshana Ashoka Kumara,
Senior Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences,
General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University,
Sri Lanka.