Effectiveness of virtual reality-based learning in midwifery education: a systematic review

Background/Aims Virtual reality has emerged as an innovative educational technology in healthcare, offering immersive and interactive learning environments that can enhance students’ clinical skills and knowledge acquisition. In midwifery education, there is growing interest in integrating virtual reality to improve students’ preparedness for real-world clinical practice. This review’s aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality technology as a learning tool by synthesising evidence from randomised controlled trials. Methods This systematic review explored the Scopus, PubMed, EBSCO, CINAHL, Science Direct and Google scholar databases for randomised controlled trials published between 2019 and 2024 that used virtual reality interventions in midwifery education. Data were systematically extracted and analysed in accordance with the review’s objectives. Results A total of 10 randomised controlled trials were included. The use of virtual reality in midwifery student education effectively enhanced learners’ knowledge and practical skills, particularly in maternal and newborn care, labour preparation and postnatal care. Conclusions Virtual reality has significant potential to improve both the cognitive and psychomotor competencies of midwifery students. This review provides valuable insights into how virtual reality can be strategically integrated into midwifery curricula. Implications for practice Virtual reality can be integrated into midwifery education to enhance students’ clinical competence, confidence and readiness for practice. It provides a safe environment for repeated skill practice and may complement traditional teaching methods to improve learning outcomes.