Distance Learning in Higher Education during the COVID-19 pandemic: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the closing of universities and the forced shift from face-to-face to distance education showcasing the potential and limitations of this form of learning. We used several tools for bibliographic management like Rayyan, VOSViewer and NVIVO and followed the PRISMA protocol. The goal of this systematic literature review was to identify the main keywords, theoretical frameworks and research methodologies used. Our analysis of themes showed the existence of 3 nodes within the literature: students, teachers and education. After searching in 5 databases, 1915 articles were found. After excluding the duplicates (63 articles), we screened and read the titles and abstracts of 1852 articles. Only 135  articles met the criteria for inclusion. Finally, 122 articles were selected for review and analysis. The most widely used methodology was case study analysis and TAM was the most used theoretical framework. Finally, we discussed if the academic community was ready to face the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities brought about by distance education.