Documenting the Half-Century Evolution of Islamic Education Research: A Correlated Topic Modeling (CTM) Study of the Literature from 1970 to 2023

• In Event: The Evolving Role of Religion in Education Research and Practice

Abstract

This systematic literature review used correlated topic modeling (CTM) to analyze Islamic education topics over 54 years (1970-2023). Reviewing 1,116 Scopus-indexed documents, it identified 19 key topics grouped into four clusters: Foundational Concepts and Methodologies, Social Issues, Teaching and Learning, and Education Systems and Settings. CTM revealed diverse subjects such as history, philosophy, policy, leadership, politics, gender, and technology. Consistent research areas included educational histories, philosophies, and values. However, topics like citizenship, education policy, student learning, and education systems needed further exploration. This study highlighted the field’s evolving nature, adapting to societal and technological changes, and introduced machine learning as a valuable tool for uncovering hidden research areas in Islamic education.

Author

• Aziz Awaludin, University of Wisconsin - Madison