CAUSES AND IMPLICATIONS OF ACADEMIC STRESS AMONG DIPLOMA IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING (AUTOMOTIVE) STUDENTS

Academic stress is a significant issue among technical education students, particularly in specialized fields such as automotive engineering. This study aims to identify the causes and implications of academic stress among Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Automotive) students at Politeknik Kota Bharu, focusing on two main factors: students’ interest in theoretical versus practical courses, and their time management practices. Quantitative data were collected through Likert-scale questionnaires, while qualitative data were obtained via open-ended survey responses. The sample consisted of 140 students from Semester 2 to Semester 5 during Session 1 2024/2025. Findings indicate that although students have varying preferences for theoretical or practical learning, this factor does not critically contribute to academic stress. Effective time management, however, was found to significantly reduce stress levels. Other factors such as daily workload, exam pressure, and academic competition still pose potential stress risks. The implications of academic stress include effects on mental and physical health, academic performance, and student motivation, highlighting the need for a holistic support system. This study offers valuable insights for educators and institutional management in creating a balanced learning environment that supports student well-being.