Research Reviews, Hot Topics and Emerging Trends in the Field of Applied Research on VLEs for Undergraduate Teaching: An Analysis Based on Bibliometrics

This study aims to delineate the research trajectory, key foci, and emergent trends in the application of VLEs (VLEs) to undergraduate education. Utilizing bibliometric techniques with CiteSpace and drawing upon data from the Web of Science core collection, we conducted a systematic analysis of pertinent literature from 2004 onwards. Our findings elucidate the temporal publication trends, disciplinary distribution, and identify the most prolific and influential authors, institutions, and countries/regions within the field. We observed a phase of gradual advancement followed by a period of accelerated growth and stabilization in the research on VLE applications for undergraduate instruction. Predominant disciplines engaged in this research include Computer Science, Engineering, and Education Educational Research, highlighting the field's interdisciplinary nature. Notably, Guido Makransky, Morris Siu-Yung Jong, and Dirk Richter emerge as leading contributors based on publication volume. The United States, China, and Spain serve as pivotal research hubs, with the Ministry of Education & Science of Ukraine, State University System of Florida, and University of California System standing out as significant institutional contributors. Our analysis underscores the need for enhanced international collaboration among countries and institutions. Cluster analysis of keywords revealed focal themes such as virtual reality, blended learning, medical education, the technology acceptance model, mobile learning, augmented reality, and the educational process in the sophomore year. A review of citation bursts and timeline visualizations suggests a thematic evolution through three stages: the introduction of technology, the transformation of teacher roles, and the evolution of student learning models. Intersecting with the adjusted technology-education paradigm, we anticipate that future research will pivot toward new frontiers, including educational policies' adaptation to VLEs, issues of educational equity and accessibility, concerns regarding data privacy and security, and the sustainable development of VLEs.