Virtual environments in higher education: a systematic review

Abstract

Virtual environments are technological tools that facilitate teaching and learning in various academic contexts. This study aims to systematize scientific evidence on the different digital tools and platforms used by university faculty in their teaching processes. A search was conducted in databases such as Scopus, SciELO, Eric, and Dialnet using the terms "digital tools and platforms"and Boolean operators in Spanish and English. The study analyzed 19 scientific articles published between 2011 and 2021 on higher education. The PRISMA flow chart was used to analyze the data. The results showed a variety of concepts related to tools and platforms, which can be confusing for readers. The study concludes that there is a need for more comprehensive research on the conceptualization and differentiation between tools and platforms.