Charting Thematic and Global Trends in TESOL Mixed Methods Research: Integrating Computational Modeling and Bibliometrics

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 9:45 am - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Novel Mixed Methods Research Applications: Insights into the Diversity of Mixed Methods Research

Abstract

This study presents a methodologically innovative synthesis of mixed methods research (MMR) in TESOL and Applied Linguistics. Drawing on 469 empirical articles published between 2003 and 2025 across 20 leading journals, we used bibliometric mapping (via Bibliometrix-R) and BERTopic modeling, a natural language processing technique, to trace how MMR has evolved thematically, intellectually, and geographically. Covidence supported a transparent and systematic screening process. Findings reveal a sharp post-2020 increase in MMR usage, thematic expansion into affective factors, translanguaging, and online learning, and persistent global disparities in authorship and collaboration. By integrating computational and bibliometric methods with open science practices, this study advances research synthesis in language education and offers a scalable model for conducting methodological syntheses in education more broadly.

Authors

• Naseh Shahri, San Diego State University

• Ismaeil Fazel, Medical University of South Carolina