THE READINESS OF BANTING POLYTECHNIC’S AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE STUDENTS FOR ONLINE COMPOSITE REPAIR TEACHING AND LEARNING

Abstract

Abstract

The swift progression of technology and the growing dependence on digital platforms in education have required the evolution of traditional teaching techniques into more adaptable, online-based options.  Aircraft Maintenance Engineering is a field that necessitates extensive practical experience, especially in the repair of composite materials, an essential competency for aviation students.  This study examines the readiness of students at Banting Polytechnic Selangor, Malaysia for the shift to online learning, with particular emphasis on composite repair education, a crucial component of their Aircraft Maintenance Engineering curriculum.  The main goal is to evaluate students' preparedness and perspectives regarding the transition from conventional in-person education to online formats, while pinpointing critical aspects that affect their adaptability.  This study aims to investigate the degree to which contemporary digital learning tools and tactics correspond with the actual requirements of composite repair training and how educators might enhance online instruction for technical courses. A mixed-methodologies strategy was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods.  A standardized survey was administered to Aircraft Maintenance Engineering students at Banting Polytechnic Selangor, Malaysia, aimed at assessing their technical preparedness, motivation, self-regulation skills, and proficiency using digital learning tools.  Furthermore, interviews were conducted with educators and industry representatives to provide insights into the opportunities and obstacles associated with online composite repair training.  The gathered data were examined to discern trends and themes concerning students' perspectives of online learning, their access to essential technologies, and their confidence in developing practical abilities via virtual platforms.  This study investigates the influence of institutional support on online technical education and how policy modifications may enhance student engagement and skill development. The study's findings reveal that although the majority of students have a basic comprehension of online learning tools and platforms, they encounter considerable difficulties in mastering specialized skills such as composite repair in a completely online environment.  Identified key issues encompass insufficient hands-on practice chances, limited practical simulation tools, and disparate levels of student self-motivation.  While students typically value the flexibility and accessibility of online education, some individuals voiced apprehensions over the efficacy of distant instruction in technical disciplines necessitating close engagement with materials and equipment.  Moreover, differences in internet access and digital skills among students have resulted in inconsistencies in learning results, hence exacerbating the transition to online education. This research underscores the necessity for educational institutions, including Banting Polytechnic Selangor, to confront these problems by incorporating sophisticated digital technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to replicate real-world composite repair scenarios.  Moreover, it underscores the necessity of improving students' self-regulation abilities and offering adequate technological assistance to facilitate effective interaction with educational resources.  It is essential to create hybrid learning models that integrate online theoretical training with in-person practical sessions to enhance skill acquisition.  The study finds that although online learning offers considerable advantages in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering education, a customized strategy is crucial for effectively equipping students with specialized skills such as composite repair in a virtual setting.  This research offers insights that can assist educators and policymakers in enhancing the delivery of technical education within the changing digital learning environment and aid in the formulation of more effective remote training methods for practical

Keywords: Digital education, Aviation Maintenance Engineering, Composite material repair, Student readiness, Virtual instructions.