Mapping the Landscape: A Systematic Review of Technology Trends in Medical Education and Competency Development

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Competency-Based Education
• Systematic Review

Background:

• Medical education is rapidly evolving due to technological advancements.
• Understanding the historical trajectory of educational technology is crucial for future development.
• Previous reviews have not comprehensively mapped trends from the late 1970s to 2024.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map and analyze educational technology trends in medical education from 1978 to 2024.
• To evaluate the impact of these trends on the development of medical competencies.
• To identify key technological trends and their associated benefits and barriers.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines.
• Comprehensive search of seven databases conducted in August 2024.
• Qualitative thematic synthesis of 18 selected studies published between 1978 and 2024.

Main Results:

• Technology integration in medical education has evolved through distinct trends.
• Simulation-based approaches were most frequently reported for enhancing clinical reasoning and psychomotor skills.
• Blended learning, e-learning platforms, and Web 2.0 tools supported flexible delivery, knowledge acquisition, and collaborative learning, despite barriers like cost and infrastructure.

Conclusions:

• Technological trends have enriched medical education, creating more interactive, accessible, and flexible learning environments.
• Future strategies should focus on developing scalable and cost-effective technological solutions.
• A systematic review of artificial intelligence's impact in medical education is recommended as a crucial next step.