Digital Strategies Utilised to Encourage Undergraduate Nursing Students' Engagement in Online Units of Study Throughout the COVID ‐19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT Aim This systematic review provides an overview of digital strategies utilised to encourage undergraduate nursing students' engagement in online units of study throughout the COVID‐19 pandemic. Background In nursing education, engagement was crucial in acquiring knowledge, skills, critical thinking and problem‐solving abilities. The COVID‐19 pandemic forced schools and universities worldwide to quickly adapt from face‐to‐face learning to online platforms. While online teaching and digital technologies in education were not new, the urgency to create effective online learning opportunities that meet curriculum needs and maintain student engagement was particularly challenging for teaching staff and students. Design: Review Methods The databases used were Embase, CINAHL, EMCARE, ERIC and BASE. The review was limited to English and literature published between January 2020 and September 2022 to capture the studies published around the COVID‐19 lockdown. Three researchers independently completed the study selection, quality assessment and data extraction. Any discrepancies were resolved in a consensus‐building conversation. Results Multiple strategies, such as simulations, gamification and telehealth role‐playing, effectively enhanced nursing students' online engagement during COVID‐19. Instructor expertise, student‐centred approaches and reliable infrastructure emerged as pivotal. Conclusion The COVID‐19 pandemic accelerated the shift to online nursing education, highlighting the need for innovative strategies to sustain student engagement. Identifying the most effective pedagogical approaches, such as virtual simulations, gamification and experiential learning, will support future online learning. Integrating emerging technologies and student‐centred teaching methods will be crucial in preparing nursing students for clinical practice in a post‐pandemic world.