Mapping the Research Topics and Patterns related to Assistive Technology: a Bibliometric Analysis

Assistive technology (AT) enhances autonomy and social participation for individuals with disabilities and serves as a valuable educational tool. This study maps AT research topics and trends using bibliometric analysis of articles from the Web of Science database which was performed during 2023. Co-citation and keyword co-occurrence analysis were conducted, and results visualized using VoS Viewer. The study identifies key authors, publishers, countries, and collaboration trends, highlighting AT research’s rapid evolution driven by emerging technologies and user needs. Common keywords reveal major themes, including AT itself, its users, accessibility, and disabilities connected to the use of AT. The study underscores AT’s complexity, interdisciplinarity, and alignment with technological and social needs, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and data-driven policies.