Article: Charting the landscape of mobile learning in higher education: a bibliometric mapping of research trends and organisational contexts Journal: International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation (IJMLO) 2026 Vol.20 No.5 pp.1 - 27 Abstract: The rapid expansion of mobile technologies has intensified scholarly attention on mobile learning in higher education. Despite this growth, the field remains characterised by fragmented themes and inconsistent terminology, limiting a coherent understanding of its evolution. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of mobile learning research published between 2017 and 2026. Data were retrieved from the Web of Science (n = 2,506) and analysed using Excel and VOSviewer to examine key bibliometric indicators. Findings reveal a surge in publications during 2020-2022, reflecting pandemic-driven adoption. China, the USA, and Taiwan emerged as leading contributors, with Taiwan's National University of Science and Technology as the most productive institution. Influential scholars, particularly Gwo-Jen Hwang, have significantly shaped the field. Thematic evolution indicates a shift from technology adoption research toward deeper pedagogical integration. The study predicts that future research will focus on AI-supported learning and on immersive technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, to strengthen student engagement. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Charting the landscape of mobile learning in higher education: a bibliometric mapping of research trends and organisational contexts

Authors: Brian Shambare; Thuthukile Jita

Addresses: Department of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education, University of the Free State, Private Bag X13, Phuthaditjhaba, 9866, South Africa ' Department of Curriculum and Higher Education Studies, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa

Abstract: The rapid expansion of mobile technologies has intensified scholarly attention on mobile learning in higher education. Despite this growth, the field remains characterised by fragmented themes and inconsistent terminology, limiting a coherent understanding of its evolution. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of mobile learning research published between 2017 and 2026. Data were retrieved from the Web of Science (n = 2,506) and analysed using Excel and VOSviewer to examine key bibliometric indicators. Findings reveal a surge in publications during 2020-2022, reflecting pandemic-driven adoption. China, the USA, and Taiwan emerged as leading contributors, with Taiwan's National University of Science and Technology as the most productive institution. Influential scholars, particularly Gwo-Jen Hwang, have significantly shaped the field. Thematic evolution indicates a shift from technology adoption research toward deeper pedagogical integration. The study predicts that future research will focus on AI-supported learning and on immersive technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, to strengthen student engagement.

Keywords: mobile learning; higher education; bibliometric analysis; research trends; educational technology; science mapping.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2026.154394

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2026 Vol.20 No.5, pp.1 - 27

Received: 22 Jan 2026
Accepted: 18 Mar 2026
Published online: 25 Jun 2026 *

Title: Charting the landscape of mobile learning in higher education: a bibliometric mapping of research trends and organisational contexts

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