Meta-Synthesis of Effective Teaching-Learning Models: An Integrated Perspective on Research Findings

The present study aimed to synthesize and integrate effective teaching-learning models based on previous research. This qualitative study employed a meta-synthesis strategy. The research population included peer-reviewed national studies from 2014 to 2025 (1393–1404 in the Iranian calendar) and international studies from 2014 to 2024 in the field of education. Initially, using keywords such as virtual education, effective learning, learning models, online learning environments, educational technologies, and quality of virtual education, a total of 176 studies were identified. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 45 articles were selected for final analysis. The data were analyzed using the seven-step meta-synthesis method proposed by Sandelowski and Barroso. The findings revealed five main components and 20 related subcomponents, namely: active teaching approaches, instructional design, effective assessment, the role of the instructor and learning environment, and learning outcomes and effectiveness evaluation each comprising four subcomponents. The results of this study provide an integrated framework that can serve as a scientific foundation for optimizing educational planning, redesigning learning environments, and enhancing instructional quality in both face-to-face and virtual settings. This framework has the potential to significantly inform educational policy-making and improve the practical performance of educators and instructional designers, particularly in online learning environments.