University Students’ Physical Well-being in Online English Language Learning: A Systematic Literature Review
List of Authors
Faten Khalida Khalid, Muhammad Nazif Aimaan Othman, Nazifah Hamidun, Nur Farhinaa Othman
Keyword
physical well-being, online English language learning, university students
Abstract
With the increasing dominance of online education, the physical well-being of university students engaged in online English language learning has gained significant attention. This systematic literature review examines existing studies to explore the physical health implications of online English language learning in higher education. The review integrates research findings related to physical health challenges faced by university students, focusing on issues such as posture-related problems, eye strain, sedentary behaviour, sleep disturbances, and musculoskeletal discomfort. A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and other scholarly sources was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and ERIC, to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2025. The review highlights key factors contributing to these physical health issues, such as prolonged screen time, improper ergonomic setups, and limited physical activity during online learning. Additionally, it examines the role of institutional support and intervention strategies aimed at toning down these health concerns. The findings suggest that while online English language learning offers flexibility and accessibility, it also poses significant physical health risks that require attention from educators, healthcare professionals, and university administrators. This review provides insights for improving student well-being in the digital learning environment.