Research front and evolution of technology education in Taiwan and abroad: bibliometric co-citation analysis and maps

In Taiwan, issues in technology education (TE), such as indeterminate core mission and unclear role, could be addressed through an objective knowledge map of research to discern directions of development and prospects. This study explores sub-fields, genres, characteristics, and trends in TE research in Chinese and English over 24 years through bibliometric co-citation analysis using two databases: Web of Science and Airiti Library. As per the findings: (1) TE research has been progressing slowly in Taiwan, while it is developing rapidly elsewhere; Disciplines integrated with TE include education and educational research, engineering, computer science, social sciences, and medicine; (2) Research topics have evolved from industrial arts, technical and vocational education, technological literacy education, and curriculum development, to pedagogical skills of teachers of technology; Other countries focus on “professional development of technology teachers,” while Taiwan emphasizes “curriculum and teaching materials;” (3) Clusters from different periods are complementary, and research topics and fronts reflect continuity. (4) “Assessment,” as a research dimension, has received insufficient attention. Insights into the evolution of research topics and research fronts are offered for technology educators.