An Analysis of the Application of Metaverse in Medical Education: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis.

Introduction: In recent years, the emphasis on leveraging technological innovations within educational frameworks has grown significantly. Among these innovations, the metaverse-an emerging digital environment-presents vast potential for revolutionizing medical education. This qualitative study set out to explore and delineate the specific ways in which the metaverse can be utilized within this context. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted across several major English-language databases, including MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Springer, ERIC, Emerald, Sage Journals, Wiley Online Library, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The search encompassed records from their inception through September 2000 to March 2025. Data synthesis followed the meta-aggregation methodology outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), centering on qualitative studies focused on the role of metaverse in medical education. Results: Of the 194 studies reviewed, only 27 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The qualitative synthesis of these studies led to the identification and categorization of seven main themes: the use of emerging technologies in medical education, virtual learning environments, intelligent teaching methods, personalized learning, expansion of interactive spaces in medical education, intelligent student assessment mechanisms, and the development of medical strategies and foresight. Conclusion: Integrating emerging technologies such as the metaverse and artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the landscape of medical education, offering immersive, personalized, and competency-based learning experiences. These innovations enhance engagement, collaboration, and decision-making and promote meaningful assessment and continuous professional development. Strategic implementation and evidence-based evaluation will be essential as the field advances to fully realizes its transformative potential in preparing future-ready healthcare professionals.