Publication performance and trends in virtual reality research in education fields: a bibliometric analysis

Virtual Reality (VR) technology has the potential to enhance education by providing immersive and engaging learning experiences that can improve teaching and learning outcomes. While there is a growing interest in utilizing VR in education settings, further research is needed to understand its pedagogical effectiveness and address associated considerations and challenges. This bibliometric study comprehensively analyzes 1,157 relevant articles from the Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) and the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EPANDED) to gain insights into the current state of VR integration in education. The analysis revealed variation in VR adoption and research output across countries and institutions, underscoring the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the field. Key research areas and trends, such as the use of VR for skill development and training, were identified. Additionally, the study highlighted the need for more research on the pedagogical effectiveness of VR. The findings carry practical implications for guiding future research shaping policy decisions and advocating for a concerted effort to harness VR’s capabilities in education. This study serves as a practical roadmap, promoting the implementation and improvement of VR technology and fostering equitable and inclusive educational practices. © The Author(s) 2024.