Content area
Aim
To identify and examine factors affecting postgraduate nursing students’ engagement with online learning in higher education.
Background
Online learning offers registered nurses flexible opportunities for postgraduate study. However, maintaining engagement can be challenging and specific influences on this group require further investigation
Design
Mixed methods literature review following systematic review principles.
Methods
A systematic search was conducted in November 2022 and updated in February 2025 across six databases: CINAHL Ultimate, MEDLINE, ERIC, APA PsycInfo, Academic Search Ultimate and Education Research Ultimate. The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines. A convergent integrated approach was employed to synthesise qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods findings using thematic analysis. While undertaken by a single reviewer and not registered with PROSPERO, established systematic review methods and a formal quality appraisal tool were applied.
Results
Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven themes were identified: (1) convenience of online learning; (2) curriculum design; (3) educator presence; (4) social interaction with classmates; (5) technology issues; (6) independent learning; and (7) working with peers. These themes could act as enablers, barriers, or both for engagement with online learning
Conclusions
Engagement in postgraduate online learning is shaped by a complex interplay of personal, social and structural factors. Key enablers include educator presence, supportive learning communities and well-structured curricula; persistent barriers include isolation and time pressures. Tailored, inclusive teaching strategies, alongside further research into a broad range of influences on engagement, including cultural and technological factors, are essential to optimise learning experiences and support postgraduate nurses in evolving digital environments.
Details
Adult Learning;
Check Lists;
Information Seeking;
In Person Learning;
Evidence Based Practice;
Database Management Systems;
Learner Engagement;
Educational Strategies;
Algorithms;
Educational Quality;
Influence of Technology;
Distance Education;
Educational Methods;
Learning Processes;
Learning Theories;
Class Size;
Instructional Materials;
Blended Learning;
Electronic Learning;
Information Systems;
Labor Force Development;
Andragogy;
Higher Education;
Educational Needs
Literature reviews;
Collaboration;
Nurses;
Higher education;
Professional development;
Systematic review;
Student participation;
Classroom communication;
Educational research;
Distance learning;
Internet access;
College students;
Literary criticism;
Cultural factors;
Workforce;
Online instruction;
Nurse led services;
Learning;
Social interaction;
Students;
Curricula;
Internet;
Nursing education;
Teaching;
Inclusive education;
Integrative approach;
Mixed methods research;
Subject heading schemes;
Research methodology;
Nursing;
Teaching methods;
Peers;
Pandemics;
Curriculum development;
Information systems;
Integrated approach;
Social factors
; Whitfield, Clare 2
1 Senior Lecturer in District Nursing, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
2 Lecturer in Advanced Practice, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK