Preliminary study on the acceptance of Online Distance Learning (ODL) implementation among building technology students in Sarawak during the festive season

The implementation of Online Distance Learning (ODL) has gained prominence in higher education, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. In Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) has adopted an ODL period lasting 1-3 weeks at the beginning of the semester, including the March-August 2024 and March-August 2025 semesters, to provide students with flexibility. However, the effectiveness and acceptance of ODL among building technology students during festive seasons remain uncertain. This preliminary study investigates students' acceptance of ODL, the challenges they face, and potential strategies to enhance its effectiveness during festive periods. The study employs a quantitative research method using online questionnaires distributed to students to gather data on demographics, ODL participation, challenges faced, and coping strategies during the festive period. The findings reveal that while students generally accept ODL as a necessary learning mode, their overall experience ranges from neutral to moderately satisfied. Key challenges identified include distractions due to family and cultural obligations, poor internet connectivity, especially in rural areas and difficulty managing time. Despite these issues, students expressed that ODL can be effective if supported with appropriate tools, such as pre-recorded lectures, flexible schedules, and offline learning materials. The festive season, moderately to highly impacted students’ ability to participate in synchronous ODL sessions. However, students demonstrated adaptability by using self-paced learning strategies and adjusting study hours. Most respondents agreed that institutional support, such as improved academic consultation, flexible deadlines, and better digital infrastructure, would enhance their ODL engagement. These insights highlight the need for more culturally responsive and student-centered ODL strategies that balance academic continuity with students’ personal and festive commitments.