Memahami gaya pembelajaran Kolb dan pengaruhnya terhadap persepsi tahap penguasaan akademik pelajar hospitaliti di Kolej Komuniti Zon Utara

The Malaysia Education Development Plan 2015–2025 (Higher Education) aims to enhance Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to meet industry demands by producing skilled workers, especially in the growing Hospitality sector. However, the shortage of skilled labour remains a key challenge in the country’s effort to achieve developed nation status. Therefore, high-quality practical training is essential to ensure that TVET students are equipped with skills aligned with the demands of a competitive industry. This study evaluates the influence of learning styles on the perception of academic mastery among Hospitality students, utilising Kolb’s Learning Style Model, which comprises four styles: Diverger, Assimilator, Converger, and Accommodator. A total of 151 second- and third-semester students from Kolej Komuniti Nibong Tebal, Kolej Komuniti Sungai Petani, and Kolej Komuniti Langkawi participated in the study. Data were collected through questionnaires and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and SEM-PLS. Findings indicate that the Diverger and Accommodator learning styles influence students’ perception of academic mastery. The study suggests improving Kolb’s Model by emphasising Diverger and Accommodator styles for practical activities, while using Converger and Assimilator styles as complementary support in preparing for final assessments. It also recommends that educational institutions integrate these learning styles to meet the needs of students, particularly Generation Z and prepare them for challenges in the dynamic Hospitality industry. This approach is expected to enhance learning experiences and improve students’ employability.