Research Hotspots and Future Trends of Critical Thinking in English Language Education: A Bibliometric Analysis of WoS and Scopus Database

HRMARS - This review, integrating comparative analysis of WoS and Scopus databases, using VOSviewer and CiteSpace softwares, aims to uncover the current status, research hotspots and future directions on Critical Thinking (CT) research in English language teaching (ELT). An analysis of literature from 2015 to 2024 revealed a significant increase in publications. The findings highlighted Hwang and Heydarnejad as the most frequently influential authors. Prominent 6 academic institutions included Islamic Azad University, Prince Sultan University, the Education University of Hong Kong, University of Malaya, National Taiwan Normal University, and the University of Hong Kong. Additionally, China, Iran, the United States, Malaysia, and Indonesia were 5 leading countries. Keyword co-occurrence analysis showed that English as a foreign language (EFL), English language teaching (ELT), critical Thinking skills, EFL learners and creativity as the most occurred 5 keywords, and cluster and timeline analysis identified the application of educational technology, the innovation and integration of teaching models, the development of higher-order thinking skills, and higher education context as 4 main themes of research hotspots. This review showcased a shift in CT within ELT research from traditional skill development to digital and innovative educational environments.