Trends and Developments in Special Education Research by Indonesian Researchers: A Bibliometric Analysis in Scopus Database

Abstract

This analysis aims to identify and map the development and trends of special education research conducted by Indonesian researchers through a bibliometric approach, including publication productivity, collaboration patterns, citation dynamics, and thematic structure. Document selection was carried out using the PRISMA method using the keyword strategy “TITLE-ABS-KEY (“special education”) AND AFFILCOUNTRY (Indonesia)” within the Scopus database, resulting in a total of 101 documents being analyzed to ensure the substantive relevance and academic contributions of Indonesian researchers. Further analysis used the R Program and VOSviewer to generate primary dataset information, map keyword networks and clusters, and identify topic novelties in the field of special education in Indonesia. The bibliometric analysis concludes that special education research in Indonesia has shown a significant growth trend, is collaborative, and has become increasingly thematically diverse in recent years. Cluster mapping and keyword visualization reveal that the focus of studies extends beyond disability to include technology integration, strengthening pedagogical foundations, and the dynamics of inclusive assessment and practice. Furthermore, the novelty analysis indicates the emergence of new themes such as “Early Childhood Education”, “Scientific Literacy”, and “Autism Spectrum Disorder”, which signal a more specific direction for research development. However, integration with the deep learning approach, a priority of national education policy, remains underexplored. Therefore, more systematic and strategic follow-up research is needed to strengthen academic contributions while aligning with the educational transformation agenda in Indonesia.