Online Distance Learning (ODL) Behavior during Covid-19: Socio-Economy Perspective of Civil Engineering Undergraduate in a Malaysian Public University

Abrupt switch from face-to-face (F2F) learning to online distance learning (ODL) was implemented in the heights of the Covid-19 pandemic in conjunction with the movement control order (MCO) in Malaysia. The questionnaire survey was conducted primarily to assess the preparedness, participation and needs of student for continuous improvement purpose in a civil engineering program of a Malaysian public university. Cross-tabulation of the survey results uncover rich insights into student background, circumstance and learning behavior. Students' acceptance and adaptability are governed by many factors, amongst others, admission qualification, credit loading, attention received, study-work balance and finances. Socio-economy drawback is a major hindrance to a fraction of students to fully benefit from ODL implementation. Students may be more concern over results and graduation rather than actual understanding. Hence, higher educators have a challenging task to improve on effective online teaching and learning. Equally important is the emotional and psychological support to maintain student motivation and well-being.