Teaching complex biological concepts in the digital age: a systematic narrative review

Teaching biology’s abstract and multilevel concepts at high school presents ongoing challenges: learners find it difficult to grasp spatial scales (from molecules to the whole organism), dynamic processes (such as metabolism and gene expression), and invisible phenomena (like cellular signalling and molecular genetics). This systematic review synthesises literature in English (from ۲۰۱۵ onwards) on blended and other innovative digital-supported pedagogies in secondary biology education to determine what works, for whom, and in which contexts. We examined multidisciplinary databases, selected empirical studies focusing on high school biology, and analysed outcomes related to conceptual understanding, engagement, skills transfer, and attitudes. Thematic analysis grouped interventions into categories: digital simulations and virtual laboratories, flipped and blended classroom models, inquiry-based multimedia activities, game-based learning, and teacher-mediated technology integration. Overall evidence suggests that multimodal approaches, combining interactive simulations and guided inquiry with targeted teacher facilitation, generate the most significant and consistent improvements in conceptual understanding and scientific reasoning. Flipped models enhanced classroom interaction and formative assessment use but yielded mixed results when out-of-class materials lacked scaffolding. Continued barriers include unequal access to devices, limited teacher training, variability in curriculum alignment, and a paucity of long-term transfer studies. We conclude with practical recommendations for classroom implementation, teacher professional development, and priority research areas: longitudinal learning transfer, equity-focused designs, and measures of fidelity for blended interventions. This review provides actionable guidance for educators and policymakers seeking to modernise high school biology teaching in the digital age.

کلیدواژه ها:

Blended learning ، High‑school biology ، Digital pedagogy