Blended learning: readiness and learning styles of Quantity Surveying students in higher educational institution in Malaysia

Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic expedited the move toward online and blended learning in all levels of education, including higher education. Given this fact, there are only a few researches on students' readiness and learning styles for blended learning during and post-pandemic context. Readiness and learning style of quantity surveying (QS) students in Malaysia are examined in this study. Design/methodology/approach The research used a quantitative approach through a convenience sampling method to investigate evidence of student readiness and learning styles, through a structured questionnaire, as the main data collection from three Malaysian private universities. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and VARK analysis. Findings Findings from the study indicated that QS students show a high level of readiness for blended learning based on the high level of digital competence and learner autonomy dimensions. It also pointed out that it is necessary to integrate kinaesthetic learning styles, in addition to visual and aural modalities, so that such hands-on activities benefit all the students and improve their academic performance. Practical implications This study supports the Ministry of Higher Education’s push for inclusive, student-centred blended learning policies, and offers guidance to the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM) on developing educational for enhancing local educational development and fostering alignment with international professional bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors (PAQS), International Cost Engineering Council (ICEC) or the Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers (SISV). Originality/value The originality rests in the integration of learning preferences and styles into the blended framework customized for QS students. By applying the VARK model, the approach transcends conventional teaching methods to offer an adaptive and flexible learning environment.