A Systematic Literature Review of Virtual Laboratories in Electrical Engineering Education

The application of virtual laboratories in electrical engineering education has increased, spanning various topics, types of virtual laboratories, evaluation methods, learning outcomes, and implementation challenges. This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review based on PRISMA 2020 to provide new insights based on research findings published between 2021 and 2025 from the Scopus and IEEE Xplore databases, focusing on virtual laboratories in electrical engineering education. A total of 20 relevant research studies were selected for analysis. The results show that virtual laboratories are implemented in courses on basic electrical engineering topics and remain predominantly simulation-based environments. The evaluation approach used is predominantly quantitative and perception-based, with an emphasis on cognitive domains and student engagement. Challenges that often arise include instructional design, technical infrastructure, and skill development. Overall, the research findings indicate that virtual laboratories in electrical engineering education are effective as complementary learning environments rather than substitutes for physical laboratories, highlighting the need for future research that is better aligned and more pedagogically rigorous.