The Twin Transition in Higher Education: Bibliometric Insights Into Digital and Green Convergence

ABSTRACT This study explores the convergence of digitalisation and sustainability—referred to as the ‘twin transition’ within higher education. The present study employs bibliometric and conceptual analysis of 361 publications indexed in the Web of Science (2006–2025) in order to map research trends, conceptual clusters and collaboration networks that are instrumental in shaping the integration of green and digital transformations. The findings reveal six interconnected thematic domains centred on technology acceptance, innovation, sustainable learning and institutional transformation. The findings of the study indicate that the twin transition is driven by theories such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Task‐Technology Fit (TTF) and the Sustainable University and Living Lab frameworks, collectively underpinning a Sustainable Digital University Ecosystem. This paradigm positions digitalisation as both a catalyst and enabler of environmental responsibility through data‐driven, ethical and inclusive governance. The present study contributes to the theoretical synthesis and strategic roadmap for aligning technological innovation with sustainability goals, providing empirical evidence and policy guidance for advancing sustainable digital transformation in higher education.

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Publication Details

Journal
European Journal of Education
Published
2026-02-12
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1111/ejed.70526
Primary Topic
Sustainability in Higher Education
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

The Twin Transition in Higher Education: Bibliometric Insights Into Digital and Green Convergence

Aydın Bulut, Sibel Oğuz Haçat
European Journal of Education
Sustainability in Higher Education
article

The Twin Transition in Higher Education: Bibliometric Insights Into Digital and Green Convergence

Aydın Bulut, Sibel Oğuz Haçat
article en

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explores the convergence of digitalisation and sustainability—referred to as the ‘twin transition’ within higher education. The present study employs bibliometric and conceptual analysis of 361 publications indexed in the Web of Science (2006–2025) in order to map research trends, conceptual clusters and collaboration networks that are instrumental in shaping the integration of green and digital transformations. The findings reveal six interconnected thematic domains centred on technology acceptance, innovation, sustainable learning and institutional transformation. The findings of the study indicate that the twin transition is driven by theories such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Task‐Technology Fit (TTF) and the Sustainable University and Living Lab frameworks, collectively underpinning a Sustainable Digital University Ecosystem. This paradigm positions digitalisation as both a catalyst and enabler of environmental responsibility through data‐driven, ethical and inclusive governance. The present study contributes to the theoretical synthesis and strategic roadmap for aligning technological innovation with sustainability goals, providing empirical evidence and policy guidance for advancing sustainable digital transformation in higher education.

European Journal of EducationVol. 61(1)
Kastamonu University (TR)
Quality Education
Openalex Percentile: Top 60%
Sustainability in Higher Education
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