A Bibliometric Analysis of Digital Textbook Research: Identifying Trends, Themes, and Networks

While previous reviews have synthesized findings on digital textbooks, the field lacks a comprehensive bibliometric analysis that maps its intellectual structure and evolution. This study employs a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer of 451 publications retrieved from the Web of Science database. The analysis aims to identify research trends, major thematic clusters, influential works, and emerging areas within digital textbook research. The findings reveal a rapidly growing body of research dominated by the United States and several European and East Asian countries, with seven key thematic clusters emerging, including digital literacy, immersive technologies, usability, and learning outcomes. The study also highlights the interdisciplinary nature of the field and underscores the potential of digital textbooks to enhance educational practices, promote equity, and support sustainable development. Future research should focus on digital literacy, sustainability, AI integration, cognitive impacts, accessibility, and advanced technological applications.