Systematic literature review on the effects of blended learning in nursing education

AIM: The study aimed to comprehensively analyze and evaluate the effects of blended learning in nursing education.

BACKGROUND: Blended learning addresses significant challenges in nursing education by offering flexible and adaptive learning environments that support the development of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Its importance grew post-COVID-19. Although some reviews have synthesized its effects in nursing education, they often focused on a limited scope and studies, leaving gaps in understanding its broader impact.

DESIGN: Systematic literature review.

METHODS: We employed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to search for literature published in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, EMBASE, ERIC, Scopus and Cochrane Library from 2000 to June 26, 2024. Two researchers independently screened each article for eligibility and extracted the data.

RESULTS: This review included 54 studies and found that blended learning positively influenced nursing students in five key areas: academic performance and skill development, learning engagement and motivation, self-management in learning, psychological and emotional well-being, learning experience and satisfaction. These were captured in a visual model showing the comprehensive impact of blended learning. Critical research gaps were identified, including a lack of randomized controlled trials and limited studies on mental health and clinical thinking abilities.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study showed that the effects of blended learning in nursing education were positive and multi-dimensional. Despite some inconsistencies in findings, blended learning was shown to offer significant advantages over traditional learning, though further research is required to address areas of uncertainty.