Picture Books Under the Lens: A Bibliometric Mapping of Research Trends

Abstract

This study aims to map publication trends, main topics, and research gaps related to picture books in primary schools indexed in Scopus over the past decade. This study answers three main questions: (1) What are the publication trends of research related to picture books in primary schools indexed in Scopus over the past decade? (2) What are the main topics or keywords frequently appearing in research on picture books in primary schools? (3) What research gaps can be identified from the bibliometric analysis of picture books in primary schools? The approach used is bibliometric, with steps including Defining the aim of the research, collecting data on the relevant literature, Analysis and visualization using VOSViewer software, and interpreting the findings and results. The analysis results show that publications related to this topic have increased significantly from 2015 to 2025, with a peak in 2025. Frequently emerging topics in the research include literacy, diversity, language development, and classroom instruction. The study also identified key countries contributing to these publications, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and China, and noted the important role of picture books in supporting children's literacy and social-emotional development. Additionally, the study found that the use of technology such as Augmented Reality in picture books is beginning to gain attention, particularly in China. The study suggests that there should be more research exploring the integration of picture books into primary school education and further development in cultural diversity