Exploration of The Benefits of Implementing Project-Based Learning (PjBL) in Junior High Schools Through Bibliometric Analysis

Background/purpose. This study aimed to identify publication trends regarding the implementation of Project Based Learning (PjBL) in junior high schools over a specific period based on bibliometric data; To analyze the most frequently occurring keywords in the PjBL literature for junior high schools to understand the main research focus; To identify the most influential journals and publications discussing the benefits of PjBL in junior high schools; To reveal major themes or research clusters related to the benefits of PjBL in junior high schools emerging from the bibliometric analysis.

Materials/methods. This study uses 151 articles from the years 2014–2023 sourced from the Scopus "Science Direct" database. The research employs bibliometric analysis techniques. This bibliometric analysis was used to identify emerging trends and patterns in educational research by mapping the co-citation patterns of articles, authors, and journals. The bibliometric analysis in this study uses the VOSviewer software.

Results. Drawing on findings indicates that the strongest links with project-based learning are machine learning, collaborative learning, deep learning, project management, and problem-based learning. Other items show weaker connections with project-based learning.

Conclusion. This research is significant as it can help educators develop effective project-based learning designs. The integration of effective project-based learning designs can enhance teaching and learning processes, improving the computational skills required in the 21st century. This study has several implications, including: Providing a Comprehensive Understanding, Identifying Future Research Trends and Directions, Offering Evidence-Based Information for Educational Policy, Enhancing the Effectiveness of PjBL Implementation, and Encouraging Collaboration Among Researchers.

Keywords: Bibliometrics, collaborative learning, deep learning, project-based learning, project management

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