Abbas H. Al-Shammari
Faculty of Graduate Studies, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, State of Kuwait 13110, Kuwait
This bibliometric analysis maps patterns in the literature on English language teaching (ELT) in Arab countries from 2000 to 2024. and provides a quantitative mapping of the research status, trends, and developmental trajectories in this domain. A total of 512 journal articles were analyzed using scientometric techniques. Data across social science, arts, and humanities publications were retrieved from Scopus. The results establish the genesis and growth patterns, collaborative networks, influential contributors, conceptual themes, and knowledge gaps that characterize ELT research in the Arab region. Key findings show: (1) Publications grew by 24% annually, accelerating across three stages: the initial, developmental, and rapid expansion. Research has concentrated on the education and linguistics fields. (2) Saudi Arabia led to productivity, while Lebanon, Yemen, and Morocco achieved the highest citation impact. Cross-country collaboration remains limited, although it has increased in China. The most prolific authors were ELYAS and AL-AHDAL. Core journals included System and Language Learning; (3) Foundational keywords like “English language teaching” persisted prominently, while terms like “Saudi EFL learners” and “EFL writing” gained prominence, signaling rising localization. However, the integration of sociocultural dimensions is limited. This study provides empirical guidance for future research policies and strategies. This study aims to advance impactful ELT scholarship tailored to the Arab context.
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Copyright © 2024 Abbas H. Al-Shammari
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