Research Impacts and Trends of Digital Literacy in Higher Education: A Biliometric Analysis based on VOSviewer
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Digital literacy has attracted significant scholarly interest, with research exploring both its concept and practical applications in education. However, systematic reviews of digital literacy remain limited. To address this gap, this study conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 1,526 publications from Web of Science database, examining the evolution of digital literacy research in higher education between 2006 and June 2024. Using VOSviewer-based performance analysis and science mapping, this study revealed Spain’s dominant contribution—led by institutions such as University of Seville—and prominent scholars including Guillén-Gámez and Palacios-Rodriguez. It also highlighted the influential role of journals such as International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education in this field. The science mapping analysis further identified a significant thematic shift from early conceptual debates around digital literacy to a contemporary emphasis on digital competence and its practical applications in educational settings. This bibliometric study aims to clarify the current state of digital literacy research and offers actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners in education.
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