Systematic evaluation of research progress on technology-enhanced language learning: Content analysis and knowledge mapping

Owing to the recent advances in information and communications technologies, technology-enhanced language learning (TELL) research has resulted in diverse theories and empirical evidence, showing the complex and dynamic nature of TELL. The retrospective amount of TELL research literature is ever-growing, making it difficult to produce a comprehensive overview. However, knowledge mapping and clustering technologies are capable of visualizing and structuring research literature on a large scale. Therefore, based on 1,295 SCI/SSCI peer-reviewed TELL research articles from 1995 to 2019, we aim to systematically investigate and map the TELL literature to generate implications and insights into future research. Results identify recent major TELL research issues like technology-assisted vocabulary/word learning, computer-facilitated communication, language learning driven by applying computers, virtual reality, mobiles, and digital games, as well as a focus on learners and the use of experimental design. Additionally, scholars are advised to pay attention to issues like robots-assisted language learning, multimodal strategies for language learning, synchronous technologies for language learning, anxiety towards TELL, and artificial intelligence in TELL. Copyright © 2021 Springer Nature Switzerland AG.