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

Medical education has undergone significant transformations, driven by rapid technological advancements. This systematic review aims to map and analyze educational technology trends from the late 1970s to 2024, tracing their evolution and their Impacts on competency development. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across seven databases in August 2024, yielding 18 studies published between 1978 and 2024 for qualitative, thematic synthesis. The findings indicate that technology integration has evolved through distinct trends. While simulation-based approaches were most frequently reported to enhance clinical reasoning and psychomotor skills, blended learning was highlighted for enabling flexible delivery, and other technologies, such as e-learning platforms and Web 2.0 tools, also played significant roles in supporting knowledge acquisition and collaborative learning. Despite these benefits, high costs, infrastructure limitations, and the need for specialized faculty training were identified as persistent barriers to adoption. In conclusion, the literature review indicates that technological trends have enriched medical education by fostering interactive, accessible, and flexible learning environments. Future strategies must therefore focus on developing scalable, cost-effective solutions. A dedicated systematic review of AI's trajectory and impact is strongly recommended as a critical next step, building upon the historical foundation laid by this study.