Optimizing Professional Development at Civil Aviation Authority Malaysia (CAAM): Implementation of Webinar-based Learning as A Cost Effective Solution

The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is facing a significant challenge due to a backlog of training courses. This not only hinders the induction of new controllers into the workforce but also burdens the current staff. This study aims to investigate the potential impact of webinar-based learning on training effectiveness compared to traditional face-to-face learning and hybrid learning and to achieve a balance between cost efficiency and training outcomes. The study used a quantitative approach, and 135 completed questionnaires were received, resulting in a confidence level of 95%. Descriptive analysis, multiple regression, and Pearson's correlation analysis were used to analyze the collected data. The multiple regression analysis results show no significant correlation between traditional face-to-face learning effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in training programs (t-value = 0.405, p = 0.686). However, webinar-based learning proves to be more cost-effective than face-to-face methods (Sig. = 0.003). The effectiveness of webinar-based learning is not inferior to face-to-face and hybrid methods, as hybrid learning significantly impacts the dependent variable (t-value = 2.987, p = 0.003.These results suggest that Webinar-based learning is more cost-efficient than traditional face-to-face learning, making it a practical solution to reduce wait times. The study's limitations include its cross-sectional design and potential response bias, suggesting the necessity for future longitudinal studies with qualitative methods to explore these relationships further.