Video annotation (VA), a tool which allows commentaries to be synchronized with video content has recently received significant research attention in education. However, the application contexts of these studies are varied and fragmented. A review was therefore undertaken with the objectives to find out the extent to which the use of VA has been explored for different instructional purposes and summarize the potential affordances of VA in supporting student learning. Articles related to the use of VA in education context were searched from 2011 to 2020 (Nov). Of the final 32 eligible studies, it was found that VA tools were used predominantly to develop teaching practices, enhance learners' conceptual understanding of video content and develop workplace skills as well as clinical practices. Five most dominant educational affordances of VA tools were summarized as follows: (1) facilitating learners' reflection (2) facilitating feedback process (3) enhancing comprehension of video content (4) promoting students' learning satisfaction and positive attitude and (5) convenience and ease. With the outstanding weight of research evidence gained on educational affordances offered by VA, it is convincing that advancing the use of VA in education can further expand the learning opportunities in 21st century classrooms.