Inclination, Awareness and Readiness of Students Towards Flexible Learning Programs at TVET Institutions

Abstract

The flexible learning approach represents a hybrid model between Open and Distance Learning, providing students the freedom to engage in courses offered online and accessible from anywhere. The implementation of flexible education programs in Polytechnics and Community Colleges (POLYCC) is still limited as these programs are relatively new. Therefore, this survey aims to identify the level of inclination, awareness, and readiness of students towards flexible education programs in the state of Johor, Malaysia. The study involves 540 Form 4 and 5 students from 20 schools in Johor. The researchers utilized a survey instrument with a five-point Likert scale with a Cronbach's Alpha reliability score of 0.89. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 29, employing descriptive statistics. The study findings reveal high levels of inclination (mean=4.3), awareness (mean=3.9), and readiness (mean=4.02) among students towards flexible education programs. These results provide valuable insights for strategic planning to sustain the implementation of flexible education programs. Further research is recommended to identify issues and challenges in the implementation of flexible education programs in other institutions.