Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends on Learning Methods In Christian Religious Education In The Period 2014–2023

Abstract

Research on Christian education plays a crucial role in shaping individuals with strong spirituality. The purpose of this research is to identify trends in research on learning methods in Christian education over the past ten years. This research employs a bibliometric approach. Data were gathered from the international academic database Dimensions. The research identifies the publication output levels, contributing countries, influential authors, and research focuses over the past ten years. The analysis results indicate a surge in the number of publications on learning methods in Christian religious education starting in 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. The highest publication occurred in 2022, while in 2023 it decreased to 646 articles. Six countries have significantly contributed to research on Christian religious education learning methods: The United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, China, and South Africa. Among these, the United States has been the most prolific contributor. The most prominent authors who contributed most to the learning methods in Christian religious education are Sara E. Brownell and Harold G. Koenig, with Ara Norenzayan being the most influential researcher. The predominant research trend in the past three years has been related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the last ten years, research on learning methods in Christian religious education has generally focused on children, knowledge, life, spiritual care, parents, cross-sectional studies, evolution, and God. This research contributes to bibliometric studies related to learning methods in Christian religious education and promotes innovation in these methods. There is a need to enhance the performance of researchers in countries outside of America, Africa, and Europe. Topics such as the digitization of education, learning methods incorporating local wisdom, and intergenerational education in the Asian context still require further development.