Computational analysis of knowledge and complexity trends in educational technology research titles from 1927 to 2023

This study looked at titles of research papers on educational technology that were published between 1927 and 2023 using computational text analysis. To map research trends, metrics for technology terminology use, network complexity, and knowledge updating rates were used. The findings showed that, despite some fluctuations, titles have become more technologically diverse and interconnected over time, indicating a greater emphasis on technology and interdisciplinarity. Escalating title complexity was visualized using network analysis. Citation patterns revealed that science/engineering and educational technology both update knowledge at comparable rates. This computational analysis shows how the fields of education and technology have been evolving together over time, giving historical context to understand current trends. The study shows how to use data science techniques to map the dynamics of research within a practical domain that connects technology and practice.