The Impact of COVID-19 on Learning and Training of Law Enforcers: A Case for Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia

Abstract

In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, online distance learning is an essential part of ongoing education for law enforcement officers all over the country. However, limited research has been done on using learning management systems by law enforcement agencies for professional development. This study aims to determine how law enforcement officers perceive and respond to distance learning as a tool for professional development. They may have adopted distance learning technology without determining its effectiveness in training or education. This study examines the characteristics, benefits and drawbacks of open distance learning (ODL), as well as the difficulties in its application to the legal training of fire services officers (FS officers) in the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia. The study utilized a focus group consisting of 15 FS officers. Quantitative and qualitative data are combined using the mixed-methods research design. The findings indicate that FS officers encountered various obstacles when applying to and completing training programmes via online ODL, which included practical legal training. The primary hurdles identified are adaptability, technical knowledge, computer literacy, communication, distraction issues and time management. However, the study found that law enforcement officers perceive and respond well to distance learning as a tool for professional development. The instructional material design stimulates active learning by the trainees so they can track their progress during the training, contributing to this result.