Journal of Advances in Medical Education & Professionalism

Review article

Impacts of Unfolding Case-Study Learning on Nursing Students’ Performance Outcomes: A Scoping Review

MAYSA` KASSABRY; MAHMOUD AL-KALALDEH; AHMAD AYED; GHADA ABU-SHOSHA; BASMA SALAMEH

Volume 14, Issue 1 , January 2026, Pages 1-20

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2025.108065.2234

Abstract

Introduction: The unfolding case study is an innovative teaching strategy that structures patient scenarios over time to enhance learner engagement and improve outcomes. However, its ... Read More

Review article

Applications and Challenges of Virtual Reality in Medical Sciences Education: A Systematic Review

SEDIGHE SADAT TABATABAEI FAR; MILAD AHMADI MARZALEH; RAHMATOLLAH SOLTANI; FARZANEH GHALEH GOLAB

Volume 14, Issue 1 , January 2026, Pages 21-31

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2025.104655.2076

Abstract

Introduction: Virtual reality (VR) technologies are interactive multimedia environments that serve as popular educational tools for teaching various groups. This study aimed to explore ... Read More Introduction: Virtual reality (VR) technologies are interactive multimedia environments that serve as popular educational tools for teaching various groups. This study aimed to explore the applications of VR in the education of different medical science groups, including medicine, medical residents, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, etc., in a systematic review format. This technology provides unique opportunities for learners to immerse themselves in experiences, leading to increased understanding and practical skills in the field of medical sciences. Therefore, this study was conducted in 2023 to examine the applications and challenges of VR in medical science education through a systematic review.Methods: This study systematically extracts published articles through keyword searches from 1970 until March 14, 2023, in Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Cochran Library, PubMed,ProQuest and IEEE. To evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies, we used the STROBE checklist. All stages were carried out by two researchers, and the final selected articles were summarized in tables.Results: This review included 26 studies from an initial pool of 22,160 identified articles. The analysis revealed six key themes regarding the use of these technologies: their impact on learning outcomes, increased student motivation, enhanced self-confidence, improved teamwork, their role as tools for curriculum integration, and associated challenges. Collectively, the reviewed studies suggest that such technologies contribute positively to learning satisfaction, academic performance, public speaking confidence, and collaborative skills. Additionally, they serve as effective supplementary tools in educational settings. Nevertheless, several studies reported potential side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and eye strain.Conclusion: This study showed that the use of technologies like VR improved learning, motivation, and teamwork, but there were challenges in their implementation. It is recommended that thesetechnologies should be integrated into the curriculum and training workshops should be held for their effective use. Additionally, policymakers should provide financial resources and nationalguidelines to support the expansion of these technologies.

Analyzing the Trends and Drivers Influencing Future Leadership in Medical Education in Iran

Volume 13, Issue 2 , April 2025, , Pages 134-148

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2025.103897.2029

Abstract

Introduction: A key challenge for policymakers in medical education lies in grasping the future landscape of leadership. Without insights into emerging trends, they may face unforeseen ... Read More Introduction: A key challenge for policymakers in medical education lies in grasping the future landscape of leadership. Without insights into emerging trends, they may face unforeseen issues, leading to expensive and inefficient decision-making. This study aimed at analyzing the trends and drivers influencing future leadership in medical education in Iran.Methods: In this research, we employed a descriptiveexploratory approach This study consists of systematic reviews and interviews that have been analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling with the help of MicMac software (version 6.1.2, 2003/2004: 3IE/EPITA, France). We conducted a systematic review according to PRISMA. A literature search was performed using databases including Medline, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertation & Theses, Scopus Embase, and Persian studies from SID, and Magiran. The inclusion criteria for the study were the articles which needed to contain one or more listed keywords, were published in a scientific journal, were written in English or Persian, were published between 2004 and 2024, had the full text available, and focused on educational leadership in medical schools. Additionally, interviews were conducted with 14 Iranian experts to pinpoint influential components. To be included, experts possessed relevant education in medical education, health policy, or higher education management; occupied an executive or managerial position in higher health education or health policy; had more than 15 years of work experience, and were willing to participate in the study. Afterward, the codes were presented in a focus group discussion of experts to define how extracted drivers would affect leadership in medical education in Iran.Results: We identified 6081 articles in the initial literature search; 17 met inclusion criteria for final review. The study identified 37 drivers in medical education management and leadership. Thesedrivers were categorized into four types: effective drivers (3), impressionable drivers (3), autonomous drivers (16), and bimodal drivers (15). Among these, the components of meritocracyin selecting managers and international relations within the education sector had the most significant impact.Conclusion: By understanding and planning around these influential and susceptible components, managers, and policymakers can gain foresight. This foresight can enhance the effectiveness of current decisions and activities, enabling a more desirable future. This can be achieved by systematically improving decision-making processes, revising procedures, and developing appropriate strategies in medical education leadership.

Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Medical Education: A Meta-Synthesis of Potentials and Pitfalls of ChatGPT

Volume 13, Issue 3 , July 2025, , Pages 155-172

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2024.104617.2071

Abstract

Introduction: ChatGPT serves as a double-edged sword in education, offering either constructive information or potential challenges. Its impact ranges from being a transformative tool ... Read More Introduction: ChatGPT serves as a double-edged sword in education, offering either constructive information or potential challenges. Its impact ranges from being a transformative tool to a disruptive force, making it difficult to evaluate its educational efficacy comprehensively. In light of this complexity, the primary aim of this research was to investigate the opportunities and challenges associated with the integration of ChatGPT into the domain of medical education.Methods: The study utilized the Interaction Equivalency Theorem as its conceptual framework to guide the investigation. To achieve the research objectives, a meta-synthesis of the literature wasconducted to systematically integrate the findings of selected studies. Data collection involved comprehensive searches across specialized academic databases, including Science Direct, Springer, ERIC, Emerald, SAGE, Wiley Online Library, PubMed, and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from 2022 to 2024. 88 articles were meticulously selected based on their relevanceto the research topic. The data were then subjected to thematic analysis, facilitating the extraction of key insights and patterns to address the study objectives.Results: The findings were organized into four primary subthemes highlighting the opportunities presented by ChatGPT in medical education. These sub-themes encompassed benefits for educators, learners, curriculum development, and the learning process. Similarly, the challenges related to the integration of ChatGPT were categorized into four primary sub-themes: addressing the difficulties experienced by educators, learners, curriculum development, and the learning process. Together, these challenges were further delineated into 11 secondary sub-themes,offering a comprehensive analysis of the complexities involved.Conclusion: The findings suggest that improving educational efficiency, assisting with self-development, enhancing communication skills, creating and expanding curriculum, and improving the learning environment are opportunities for utilizing ChatGPT. The study outcomes also reveal that lack of technological knowledge, negative attitudes, reduction in education quality, diminishing students’ capabilities, reducing learning quality, flaws in learning development, difficulties in designing educational content, and bias in learning evaluation are challenges of applying ChatGPT in medical education.

Transforming Education: Case-Based Integrated Learning Development and Implementation – A Mixed Methods Study at a Private Medical College

Volume 13, Issue 1 , January 2025, , Pages 49-58

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2024.104285.2048

Abstract

Introduction: Case-based learning (CBL) is widely used in medical education to bridge theory and practice, but traditional methods often struggle to sustain student engagement and promote ... Read More Introduction: Case-based learning (CBL) is widely used in medical education to bridge theory and practice, but traditional methods often struggle to sustain student engagement and promote critical thinking. To address these challenges, Case-Based Integrated Learning (CBIL) was developed as a novel approach combining immersive and interactive learning techniques. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of CBIL in enhancing engagement, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning among medical students, and explore faculty experiences regarding the pedagogy.Methods: An explanatory-sequential mixed-methods study was conducted in a private medical college in Pakistan. Quantitative data were collected through faculty (n=35) and student (n=122) evaluation surveys, and analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequencies, and percentages). Qualitative data from focused group discussions (FGD) with faculty were analyzed thematically. A committee of clinical faculty and medical educationists developedfour CBIL prototypes. Faculty from various clinical specialties were trained on CBIL concepts and lesson planning, and the prototypes were used to develop engaging cases for subsequent sessions. Participants included faculty from diverse disciplines and students intheir third and fourth years of medical school.Results: The faculty considered the training very effective (overall satisfaction: 5.17±0.89 out of 6), with a vast majority being very satisfied with its relevance (86%, n=30) and structure (91%, n=32).Among students, 95% (n=116) were satisfied with the developed cases. Most of them were also satisfied with the clarity (92%, n=112) and applicability of the cases (96%, n=117). In FGD, facilitators expressed satisfaction with CBIL formats as it provided opportunities for engagement, in-depth analyses, and discussions.Conclusion: Interactive formats like CBIL can engage students by allowing opportunities for interaction, discussion, and peer-learning. This promotes improved understanding and critical thinking. Further exploration of the effectiveness and impacts on the learning of various interactive formats of case-based learning is essential.

The Advantages and Challenges of Electronic Exams: A Qualitative Research based on Shannon Entropy Technique

Volume 13, Issue 1 , January 2025, , Pages 1-11

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2024.102951.1987

Abstract

Introduction: The electronic exam is one of the foremost imperative instruments for evaluating students’ execution. Accordingly, this study aimed to identify the advantages and ... Read More

Nursing Students’ Perspectives on the Relationship between Virtual Reality Simulation and Clinical Decision-Making, Confidence, and Anxiety: A Cross-Sectional Study

Volume 13, Issue 3 , July 2025, , Pages 191-197

https://doi.org/10.30476/jamp.2025.105619.2115

Abstract

Introduction: This study addresses this gap by assessing the relationship of VR simulation with improving clinical decisionmaking, confidence, and anxiety reduction among nursing students. ... Read More Introduction: This study addresses this gap by assessing the relationship of VR simulation with improving clinical decisionmaking, confidence, and anxiety reduction among nursing students. The aim of this study is the relationship between virtual reality simulation and their clinical decision-making, confidence, and anxiety reduction using a cross-sectional study from the perspectives of nursing students.Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed 200 nursing students enrolled in clinical courses utilizing virtual reality (VR) simulation for educational purposes. A structured questionnairewas used to assess their clinical decision-making, confidence, and anxiety reduction following the VR simulation course. The survey included scales validated through a panel of experts andquestionnaire validation methodologies, using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and inferential statistical tests, including Pearson’s correlation and independent-sample t-tests, were conducted to examine the associations. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to assess the predictive value of confidence and anxiety on clinical decision-making while controlling demographic variables.Results: A total of 200 nursing students participated in the study. The mean (SD) clinical decision-making score was 3.16 (1.23) out of 5, while confidence and anxiety reduction scores were 2.64 (1.34) and 2.49 (1.32), respectively. No significant correlation was found between decision-making and confidence (r=-0.079, p=0.264) or anxiety scores (r=0.121, p=0.088), but confidence and anxiety scores showed a weak direct correlation (r=0.180, p=0.011). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that confidence and anxiety were not significant predictors of decision-making, but gender was a significant predictor, with males scoring higher (β=0.19, p=0.041).Conclusions: While VR directly influences decision-making, it has a limited association with changes in nursing students’ confidence and anxiety levels. These findings suggest that VRsimulation alone may not be sufficient for enhancing confidence and reducing anxiety and should be integrated with other instructional strategies to maximize its effectiveness in nursing education. Future studies should explore complementary training methods to improve clinical preparedness.