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Table 2 Summary of intervention and results of the included studies

From: Digital learning designs in occupational therapy education: a scoping review

Author Year

Intervention

Results

Barillas 2019 [25]

Experimental group: 3D anatomy software + on-campus class (4-hour lecture, 4-hour laboratory time)

Control group: taken a course without use of anatomy software

Duration: 1 semester

Course grades: higher overall final course grades in experimental group compared to the control group, but not statistically significant (p > 0.05); no statistically significant differences in lecture and laboratory exam grades between two groups (p = 0.891, p = 0.507, respectively)

Usefulness: 82 of students reported the use of the anatomy software to be helpful in understanding course concepts.

Course grade differences: no statistically significant among the different learning styles or age groups (p > 0.05)

Howard 2019 [26]

Blended group: F2F sessions (lectures, lab activities) + online sessions (videos, reading assignments, group work, online forum) via LMS

F2F group: traditional lecture and lab, with learning activities

Duration: 1 semester

Summative course grades: statistically significantly higher in F2F group

Qualitative analysis

- Students’ perception on online hybrid section: the course required more busywork.

- Priori themes: value of theory and growth in theory application

- Emergent themes: use of theory for professional reasoning, client-centered practice, theory integration in practice, and theory in the OT process

Simons et al. 2002 [27]

Experimental group: F2F sessions + online sessions (lectures, presentations, web sites links, and discussion, assignments) via LMS; Web-Course-In-a-Box

Duration: 1 semester

Online learning experience: students reported that it was efficient, effective, and satisfactory, as previously expected.

ASCT: increased significantly during the semester only in OT course (word processing: p = 0.000, e-mail: p = 0.013, use of the Web: p = 0.025)

Qualitative analysis

- Efficiency, effectiveness, and satisfaction of online learning are a product of the interaction between the individual student factors, remote learning environment factors, and course design and instructor factors.

Grant 2019 [28]

Experimental group: Game-based technology during a class to encourage the engagement with practical aspects of equipment use and fitting, Individual and group game missions

Duration: 3-hour

Students’ perception of game-based learning

- Extremely high student engagement and increased confidence in practicing using adaptive equipment

- Students perceived that the game-based technology is useful tool to get knowledge about adaptive equipment.

Qualitative analysis

- Students mentioned that game-based learning allowed them to experience autonomy and competition.

Lin et al. 2021 [29]

Smart class group: online teaching information platform

; pre-class (requirements, studying materials), in-class (theoretical class: discussion, questions, and answers/ practical class: practice and discussion) after- class (assignments, group discussion, extracurricular studying resources)

Traditional class group: F2F teaching (theoretical class + practical class)

Duration: 1 semester

Course scores: no significant difference in final score between two groups (p = 0.874); higher assignment score and practical exam score in the smart class group than those in the traditional class group (p = 0.017, p = 0.040, respectively)

Pre-class preview, in-class learning, after-class review: no significant difference between two groups (p > 0.05, all)

Course satisfaction: no significant difference between two groups (p > 0.05)

Students’ questionnaire survey and teachers’ interview: preference for combining the two learning methods (smart class module for the theory class + traditional class for the practical class)

Power et al. 2020 [30]

Online group: online CPT program at the computer lab on campus (text and audio information, video demonstration for SCA training)

F2F group: CPT training from a presenter at the standard lecture theatre

Control group: attended lectures not related to this topic and, completed the online CPT program after the study

Duration: 45-min

AASK

- Compared with the control group, significantly higher knowledge of aphasia in online and F2F groups (online vs. control: p = 0.000; F2F vs. control: p = 0.002), knowledge of facilitative strategies (online vs. control: p = 0.000; F2F vs. control: p = 0.002), and positive attitudes towards aphasia (online vs. control: p = 0.031; F2F versus control: p = 0.032)

- No significant difference between the online and F2F groups for the total or any subtotals (p = 1.000)

Carbonaro et al. 2008 [31]

F2F group: student manual and interprofessional team discussion on complex case scenarios

Blended group: F2F sessions + online sessions (synchronous virtual classroom and asynchronous interactions; library resources, video clips, download notes and assignments, submit work via LMS)

Duration: 5 weeks

Interprofessional team attitudes, knowledge, and skill: no significant differences in communication and teamwork, interprofessional relationship, interprofessional learning, interprofessional interaction between groups (p = 0.376, p = 0.769, p = 0.174, p = 0.462, respectively)

Team dynamic: no observable differences between the groups; comparable performance before and after global rating and overall competence in the groups

Qualitative analysis

- Achievement of course learning objectives perceived by students: a more positive achievement in the blended learning class (collaborating effectively as a healthcare member)

Martín-Valero et al. 2021 [32]

Experimental group: university training with MOOC (videos for brief theoretical explanation, clinical cases, and discussion forums for analysis, professional reasoning)

Control group: only university training without MOOC

Duration: unspecified

Academic performance: statistically significant differences between the groups in favor of the MOOC

Evaluation rubric after MOOC: quite good result in MOOC group (X = 21; SD = 6.88, out of a maximum of 36 points)

MOOC and empathy: statistically significant differences between the pre and post empathy scores (X = − 11.71; SD = 11.36; t (173) = − 13.68, p < 0.001) with a high effect size (d = 0.86)

Structural equation model: the higher the realization and participation in MOOC, the higher the academic performance, and cognitive and affective empathy

Henderson et al. 2020 [33]

Flipped course group: pre-class activities (online lectures, readings, learning activity via online discussion board, etc.) + in-class activities (role playing, case studies, and collaborative group work for active application of learned knowledge)

Collaborative group: involved in course design; meeting weekly with the researcher for creation of feedback, comments and opinions on the flipped course

Duration: 1 semester

APLOS: significant growth in both groups, no differences between the groups at post-course

SACRR: similar professional reasoning skills in both groups at post-course, no significant differences (Hotelling’s T, F = 1.240, p < 0.333)

PMQ: significant differences (Hotelling’s T, F = + 2.745, p < 0.011) on 3 of 18 items; the collaborative group showed more metacognitive learning characteristics.

Qualitative analysis

- Experienced growth in active learning, professional reasoning, and change in student engagement in both groups

- Additional benefits of development of relationships, increased accountability, and improved metacognitive learning in collaborative group

Jedlicka et al. 2002 [34]

Experimental group: applying and synthesizing lecture content to cases while rotating 3 online educational methods

- Two-way interactive video and audio group

- Chat room group

- Independent learning group: independent case assignments

- Three groups: lectures, discussions, and lab experiences using two-way interaction LMS; WebCT before case application training

Duration: 1 semester

Exam of student’s performance: no significant difference between three groups (p = 0.11)

Student preference for instructional methods: 77% of students prefer two-way interactive video and audio

Qualitative analysis

- Activation of interaction and communication between learners is important for effective education through distance learning.

- Higher skills of faculty members for various skills are required.

Thomas et al. 2005 [35]

Experimental group: online fieldwork education via LMS; WebCT

- Post messages (clinical setting, OT roles, client case history) on bulletin board by students and participating in virtual discussions

- Monitoring discussion boards by instructors

Duration: 6 weeks

Participation

- 95% (40/42) general login to the discussion board

- 92.5% (37/40) of the participating students actually read the postings

- 87.5% (35/40) posted at least 1 item on the bulletin board

Qualitative analysis

- Majority of the students’ postings: knowledge, comprehension, application

- Beneficial effects of participation in WebCT during fieldwork: student learning and achievement of stage 1 learning objectives by supporting students in peer learning, improving student autonomy, supporting self-directed learning and stimulating higherorder thinking

Myers et al. 2015 [36]

Experimental group: online interprofessional skill training via LMS; Blackboard

- Case study assignments, blogs for online discussions, and multimedia content (web resources, videos, and peer-reviewed literature)

- Small group activities (development of goals, intervention plans, and recommendations for caregivers and school personnel)

Duration: 1 semester

Qualitative analysis

- Students perceived that their understanding and knowledge of other disciplines’

roles on the team increased.

- Students felt more comfortable with the idea of collaborating with other disciplines.

- Problem solving and decision-making were improved through factual knowledge about content and the process of applying it.

- Students recognized critically analyzing and evaluating viewpoints as the most positive aspect of learning through this course.

Use of multimedia resources: highly rated in course feedback

Kim et al. 2022 [37]

F2F group: 4-session lectures on DLW and wrap-up + small group discussion on video case scenarios, single-day

Online group: prerecorded DLW sessions + asynchronous discussion forums (same content as F2F delivered)

Duration: 8-hour

Knowledge changes regarding the DLW framework: no significant differences in at the 3 time points; pre, post, follow-up between the groups (p = 0.57 to p = 0.99)

Factors influencing DLW adoption: significant differences between the groups at posttest in favor of the F2F group (p = 0.001)

Satisfaction with the workshop: significant differences between the groups at posttest in favor of the F2F group (p < 0.001)

Qualitative analysis

- Relevance to their practices and interests may improve learning, a familiar learning environment may facilitate learning.

- F2F workshop is valuable in the learning process.

- Flexibility in web-based learning can be both beneficial and challenging; participants expressed web-based learning lacked in-person-like interactions.

Barnard-Ashton et al., 2017 [38]

Experimental group: F2F sessions (problem scenario introduction, mid-problem tutorials, and problem feedback)

+ online activities (podcasts, online discussion forums, live video calling, open source VLE, etc)

Duration: 1 semester course for 6 years

Qualitative analysis

- Lecturers and students noted improved communication, curriculum transparency and efficient use of time and paper resources, which in turn accommodates the student’s need for instant gratification.

- Students felt reassured that they had the correct information and any-time access to all communication resulting in the use of blended learning becoming part of their study habits.

- Lecturers perceived success in seeing students actively engaged with blended learning

activities and evidence that blended learning was contributing to improved pass rates.

Murphy et al. 2018 [39]

Experimental group: online videos of cases in real clinical setting and student discussion on professional reasoning in class, out-of-class assignments (small group and individual)

Control group: written case studies using a textbook and student discussion on professional reasoning in class, text-based case study assignments (small group and individual)

Duration: 1 semester

HSRT

- Experimental group (pre-post): statistically significant changes in overall score, percentile, induction, deduction, and evaluation (p < 0.05); but, not statistically significant in analysis and inference

- Control group (pre-post): no statistical significance in all items

- Comparison: statistically significant difference in inductive reasoning skill (p = 0.03); but no significant difference in the other items

Gee et al. 2017 [40]

Experimental group: professional reasoning process using A SECRET module

- Simulated case scenario via multimedia (video, audio, and text)

- Multiple choice assessment related to each of the 7 elements of A SECRET via LMS

Duration: 1 semester

Evaluation of teaching professional reasoning process (A SECRET): overall average score 68% in the strategy achievement, positive findings in novelty of the instruction, assessment, and the content

Mitchell et al. 2009 [41]

Experimental group: online independent study

- Reading assignments about OPPM

- Written objective examination

- Submission of responses to case questions and feedback via LMS; Blackboard

- Completion of critical reasoning journals

Duration: 1 semester

The effectiveness of online assignments on enhancing awareness and use of professional reasoning skills: more than 40% of each type of reasoning on the WGCTA by students.

Students’ perceptions of the use of professional reasoning: SR is the most used in each part of the assignment

Primary factors in using reasoning type: the type of information being considered, the actions required by the question, and the student’s innate style and previous experiences

Feldhacker et al. 2022 [42]

F2F group: all lectures and labs on campus

Hybrid group: recorded lectures and class sessions (synchronously or asynchronously) + only attended labs and experiential learning components on campus

- Both group: use the active learning strategies in class sessions

(group discussions, think-pair-share, polling, quizzes, reciprocal questioning, and others), online activities (Flipgrid, Padlet, online quizzes, and discussion posts).

Duration: 1 semester

Achievement of learning course objectives and acquisition of knowledge: significant improvement in both groups from pre- to posttest (p < 0.05); no statistically significant differences between groups at pre- or posttest

Qualitative analysis

- Students reported the effectiveness of course design (active learning strategies) regardless of course delivery method and strongly favored assignments and learning activitieslinked to real-life experiences.

Banning et al. 2021 [43]

Hybrid pathway: F2F (47% of the total credit hours, on-campus and community-based labs, service-learning experiences, and fieldwork) + online delivery (53% of the total credit hours, online lectures, exams, and synchronous online delivery lab)

F2F pathway: only F2F elements (lectures, labs, learning activities)

Duration: unspecified

Perceived preparedness for the certification exam or to enter the workforce: no significant difference between the groups

Sense of belonging, skills learned throughout the program, practice settings or leadership roles held after graduation: no significant differences between the groups

The number of state occupational therapy associations: significantly greater number of hybrid alumni

Lewis-Kipkulei et al. 2021 [44]

Experimental group: pre-class (assigned readings, guiding questions, and research topics) + in-class (peer collaboration, student-led discussion, and peer teaching)

Duration: 1 semester

Qualitative analysis

- Flipped classroom has a positive impact on peer interaction and collaboration.

- Flipped classroom provides students more individualized time.

- The learning model had a positive impact on encouraging higher student engagement.

- Learning through discussion was much more valuable than traditional lecture courses.

- The course was more student-focused, supporting independent learning.

Benaroya et al. 2021 [45]

Experimental group: OTA online education using active learning strategies

- Synchronous virtual classroom platform: flipped classroom, think-pair-share and jigsaw technique using breakout rooms, polling and student response systems, muddiest point via chat box, lab kits,

- LMS: 1-minute paper using discussion forums, student-generated video

Duration: 2 semesters

Helpfulness of each strategy: breakout room and chat box feature of the synchronous virtual classroom, lab kits were perceived as most helpful, whereas student-generated videos and one-minute papers were perceived as least helpful

Provident et al. 2015 [46]

Experimental group: online OTD program via LMS; Moodle

- Assignments related to each student’s professional interest/practice

- Ongoing discussion forums by instructors

- Reflective writing activities and peer review processes

- Implementation of the capstone project

- 2 campus visits for leadership course, presentation of capstone projects

Duration: 4 semesters

Qualitative analysis

-Students had multiple opportunities for critical reflection and discourse throughout the program; students experienced professional uneasiness or a dilemma.

- Students reflected that the program’s cohort structure allows for the sharing and interaction of experiences with instructors and other students.

- Capstone projects provided active learning in each student’s unique worksite making the personal transformation more evident to the student.

- Students reported increased confidence in their new roles and increased awareness of positive change after completing the OTD program.

  1. 3D three-dimensional, F2F face to face, OT occupational therapy, ASCT adapted self-efficacy with computer technologies, AASK aphasia attitudes, strategies and knowledge, CPT communication partner training, SCA supported conversation for adults with aphasia, MOOC massive open online courses, APLOS adult practice learning objectives survey, SACRR self-assessment of clinical reflection and reasoning, PMQ Plattner metacognition questionnaire, WebCT web courset tools, DLW do-live-well, VLE virtual learning environment, HSRT health science reasoning test, A SECRET attention, sensation, emotional regulation, culture/context/condition, relationships, environment, and task, OPPM occupational performance process model, SR scientific reasoning, WGCTA Watson-Glaser critical thinking appraisal, OTA Occupational Therapy Assistant, OTD Occupational Therapy Doctorate