Artificial intelligence and education: A bibliometric analysis of global research trends and future directions

Abstract

This study offers a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the intersection between artificial intelligence (AI) and education, with a particular emphasis on research trends, geographical distribution, and thematic developments spanning the period from 2000 to 2023. Drawing upon data from Scopus and the Web of Science (WoS), the analysis employed specialised tools, namely ScientoPy and VOSviewer, to identify temporal dynamics, collaborative patterns, and emerging areas of scholarly focus. A significant rise in publications during 2022–2023 signals the increasing impact of AI technologies on educational transformation and reflects growing academic interest in the integration of intelligent systems within teaching and learning processes. The geographical analysis highlights the leading roles of China, the United States, and India in advancing AI applications in education, underscoring the influence of national strategies and strong research ecosystems in driving innovation. The findings suggest that future research should examine the development of hyper-personalised learning environments and the ethical deployment of AI to enhance inclusivity and sustainability in education. As AI systems become increasingly embedded in educational platforms, issues of equity, transparency, and governance require closer scrutiny to ensure responsible innovation. VOSviewer mapping reveals that the term “artificial intelligence” is closely linked to key areas such as “education,” “higher education,” and “machine learning,” illustrating AI’s central function in enabling adaptive, personalised, and effective learning systems. Overall, this analysis contributes valuable insights into the progression of AI in educational contexts and establishes a basis for future exploration and implementation, offering evidence-based perspectives for educators, researchers, and policymakers navigating this evolving field.