Learning effects of combined digital and on-campus learning: an overview of systematic reviews

Results: Five systematic reviews were included, one of which examined the effects of various types of blended learning.This review found a positive effect of the flipped classroom model (where students prepare for lessons using digital learning resources, thereby freeing up classroom time for learning activities) on knowledge acquisition among physiotherapy students.Four reviews summarised the effects of blended learning with virtual reality VR technology compared to traditional classroom teaching for physiotherapy and nursing students.Three of the four reviews showed increased knowledge as a result of blended learning with VR technology.Two of the four reviews found no difference in practical skills between blended learning and traditional classroom teaching.We found no difference in student satisfaction between blended and traditional classroom teaching, and none of the reviews measured general competence after blended learning.Conclusion: Blended learning using VR technology or the flipped classroom model shows promising results for knowledge acquisition among nursing and physiotherapy students.The findings on knowledge acquisition support the idea that blended learning can facilitate the adoption of new learning environments and methods.However, the evidence regarding the effect of blended learning on practical skills remains unclear.Controlled trials are needed to examine the effect of blended learning on general competence.