Bibliometric Mapping of AI-Supported Social Presence in Online Learning Environments: Trends, Collaboration, and Thematic Directions
For researchers and educators in online learning, this bibliometric analysis provides a structured overview of the field's development and gaps, though it is an incremental review rather than a novel contribution.
This study analyzes 59 open-access empirical studies to map trends, collaboration patterns, and thematic directions in AI-supported social presence research in online learning, finding an upward trend since 2020 but limited international collaboration and underexplored ethical concerns.
This study examines the development, influence, and collaboration patterns in AI-supported social presence research within online learning environments. Utilizing 59 open-access empirical studies from Scopus, the study applies citation analysis, co-authorship mapping, institutional analysis, and keyword clustering using Python-based bibliometric tools. Findings reveal an upward trend in publications since 2020, with research focusing on engagement, AI tools, instructional design, and ethical issues. While countries such as the United States and Brazil are leading contributors, international collaboration remains limited. Ethical concerns related to trust and fairness are emerging but underexplored. The study highlights the importance of ethical integration, interdisciplinary collaboration, and learner-centered AI applications in education.