Contemporary Approaches to Paediatric Education: A Scoping Review of Teaching Modalities

Introduction: Paediatric clinical education faces challenges due to limited placements and evolving healthcare needs. Innovative educational strategies are essential to ensure students are adequately prepared for paediatric practice. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following JBI methodology and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. A comprehensive search of OVID Medline, and CINAHL databases identified 128 eligible studies published between 2013 and 2024. Studies were catagorised into simulation-based education, online modalities, and alternative teaching methods, and synthesised for educational impact in tertiary health curriculums. Results: High-fidelity simulation (HFS) emerged as the most frequently studied intervention and was commonly associated with improved learner confidence, communication, and short-term clinical decision-making outcomes. Low-fidelity simulation (LFS) supported foundational skill development but lacked realism. Several studies reported comparable cognitive learning outcomes between online modalities and traditional educational approaches. Emerging approaches such as interprofessional education, community-based learning, and nuanced technologies showed potential but require further validation. Most included studies originated from the United States and focused on undergraduate nursing education, which may limit generalisability across healthcare disciplines and international contexts. Discussion/Conclusion: Simulation-based learning appears to provide a valuable supplementary strategy to the delivery of paediatric education, though cost and scalability remain concerns. A scaffolded, integrated curriculum that combines simulation, digital platforms, and alternative approaches are shown to enhance student readiness for paediatric practice. Further longitudinal research is needed to assess clinical and patient outcomes.