A Scoping Review of Health Sciences Students’ Self-Regulated Learning in Online and Blended Study Environments: Strategies, Processes, and Outcomes

Background. Self-regulated learning (SRL) is considered an important factor for success in online and hybrid learning contexts. No comprehensive synthesis of studies on SRL among various health science fields in these learning environments is currently available. 

Objectives. This study summarized literature on SRL in online and hybrid health professions education contexts and, additionally, identified specific SRL strategies used, processes utilized to promote SRL, and outcomes associated with SRL.

Methods. The scoping review protocol entailed literature searching, screening and selection, data extraction, frequency and thematic analyses, and data presentation. 

Results. Fifty-four (54) peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025 were included in the review. Studies came from six different regions, with the biggest number coming from Asia (25). Studies were mostly observational (24) and qualitative (11), focusing on blended learning modalities (29). Forty-two (42) articles involved undergraduate students from mostly fields of nursing (24) and medicine (16). Students used a variety of strategies encompassing the forethought, performance, and self-reflection phases of SRL, employing task strategies most frequently. SRL was cultivated using teaching-learning strategies, different learning delivery modalities, technology, and special interventions. SRL was associated with enhanced student performance, engagement, perception of online learning, and other non-cognitive skills for learning. 

Conclusion. Literature on SRL among health sciences students in online and blended learning has increased in the past years, especially after the pandemic-driven shift to distance learning. A scarcity of high-level evidence has been found. Deliberate SRL development efforts are beneficial to help facilitate better acceptance of online learning and improve chances for student success.