Video-based approaches in health education: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract This study evaluates the impact of video-based approaches on health education. PUBMED, Web of Science, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and LILACS databases were searched from their inception until November 2022. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies on interventions were included in this review. Studies were grouped according to their reported learning outcomes. A random effects meta-analysis was performed. Meta-regression analyses were used to explore the effects of confounding variables on the overall estimates. Forty studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that video-based learning (VBL) has a significant effect on ‘knowledge acquisition’ in dentistry (Cohen’s d = 2.18), moderate effect in medicine (Cohen’s d = 0.67); moderate effect on ‘skills development’ in medicine (Cohen’s d = 0.76) and nursing (Cohen’s d = 0.59); overall moderate effect on ‘attitude’ (Cohen’s d = 0.74). Egger’s test was performed to assess potential publication bias. VBL offers a valuable educational tool for knowledge acquisition, skill development, and attitude changes in health education. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are also discussed. To strengthen the evidence base, future research should address the limitations found, such as the high risk of bias (RoB), and employ rigorous study designs when investigating the role of multimedia learning in various academic disciplines.