Applicability and Validation of Educational Technologies for Teaching in Health Courses with an Emphasis on mobile Applications: A Review

Abstract

This review aimed to gather current evidence on the applicability of educational technologies in the health field, with an emphasis on mobile applications, as well as the methods used for their validation. The advancement of digital technologies has positively impacted the training of health students and professionals by facilitating access to information and promoting the development of clinical competencies. Mobile applications (m-Health) stand out as complementary tools in education, supporting active learning and evidence-based decision-making. However, the rapid expansion of these resources poses important challenges, such as the need for regulation, usage safety, and scientific validation. This review sought to answer the following questions: (1) What are the main applications of mobile educational technologies in health education? and (2) What methods have been used to validate these tools? To address these questions, the review identified validation methodologies such as the Delphi method, expert panel analysis, and the Content Validity Index (CVI), considered effective strategies to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of the applications. The integration between active teaching methodologies and mobile technologies is also emphasized as essential for a more interactive educational experience, aligned with the current generation of students. The review includes studies conducted in different countries, giving the work a global scope. Nevertheless, barriers related to accessibility and content adaptation persist. It is concluded that mobile applications in health education must undergo rigorous validation processes to ensure pedagogical effectiveness and contribute to the training of professionals better prepared for the challenges of clinical practice.