Mapping the evolution of blended learning in management and business education: a twenty-year global perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37497/2965-7393.SDGs-Countries.v3.n00.48Keywords:
Blended Learning, Academic Research Trends, Management Education, International Collaboration, Publication AnalysisAbstract
Objective: This study aims to map the global landscape of academic research on blended learning, particularly in management and business, and to propose a future research agenda for this burgeoning field.
Method: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of international publications on blended learning within the management and business sectors from 2001 to 2021. The study involved identifying the timeline, key contributors, geographical distribution, and thematic focus of these publications. We evaluated the impact of the research through metrics such as the h-index and CiteScore from Scopus, and also examined patterns of international cooperation.
Results: The findings reveal a substantial increase in blended learning research over the past twenty years. However, this body of work is predominantly contributed by a limited number of authors, institutions, and journals. Countries with extensive co-authorship networks are leading in terms of publication volume and influence. These nations also dominate in producing the most impactful authors and journals in the field.
Conclusions: The study underscores the expanding interest and relevance of blended learning in management and business education. It highlights the necessity for a broader participation from diverse academic and geographical backgrounds to enrich the field. The research agenda suggested focuses on diversifying the sources of contribution and exploring blended learning's implications in various educational settings. The findings emphasize the pivotal role of international collaboration in enhancing both the quantity and quality of research in blended learning.
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