Bibliometric Mapping of AI-Supported Social Presence in Online Learning Environments: Trends, Collaboration, and Thematic Directions

TL;DR

This paper analyzes trends, collaboration, and thematic directions in AI-supported social presence research in online learning, highlighting growth since 2020 and emphasizing ethical and interdisciplinary considerations.

Contribution

It provides a bibliometric overview of the field, identifying key themes, collaboration patterns, and emerging ethical issues in AI-supported online learning research.

Findings

Publication count has increased since 2020.

Research focuses on engagement, AI tools, and ethics.

Limited international collaboration observed.

Abstract

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.