Human resource management in decentralized educational contexts: a bibliometric mapping and review of scientific literature

This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric and systematic mapping of the literature on human resource management in decentralized educational contexts, using the Scopus database from 2000 to 2025. The methodology was carried out in two phases: (1) a bibliometric analysis and (2) a systematic literature review incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods. The first phase identified 104 studies, while the second included eight selected publications. Results show that scientific output in this field grew by 17.3% in 2024, with 14% of the publications originating from the United States. Social sciences accounted for 30% of the thematic areas, and multidisciplinary approaches represented 13.8%. The study concludes that research on human resource management in decentralized education systems has advanced in thematic diversity, international participation, institutional support, and author collaboration. However, challenges remain regarding regulatory supervision, well-defined legislation, and ensuring equity and excellence in education. This research also serves as a foundation for future studies, offering an updated overview of current academic trends and emerging priorities in the intersection of education and public management.