Heutagogical learning in professional development

A bibliometric analysis of published literature between 2010 and 2024

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/tvdrc668

Keywords:

Heutagogy, Self learning, Professional Development, Bibliometric analysis, VOSviewer

Abstract

This study explores the evolution and significance of heutagogical learning in professional development using a bibliometric analysis of literature published between 2010 and 2024. Heutagogy, emphasizing learner autonomy and self-determined learning, has emerged as a transformative educational paradigm, particularly in the context of workforce training and lifelong learning. The research employs a bibliometric approach to analyze 473 peer-reviewed publications sourced from Scopus, highlighting trends, influential authors, collaborative networks, and key thematic areas. Findings indicate a notable rise in publications since 2016, driven by the increasing demand for adaptive and autonomous learning strategies. Prominent contributions come from multidisciplinary domains, including social sciences, medicine, and computer science, underscoring the broad applicability of heutagogical principles. Co-authorship and co-citation analyses using VOSviewer reveal robust global collaborations, with significant contributions from institutions in the US, UK, and Australia. Key thematic clusters, such as self-directed learning, digital education, and professional adaptability, were identified, reflecting the relevance of heutagogical practices in addressing 21st-century workforce challenges. In order to maximise heutagogy's potential for cultivating flexible, adaptable individuals, this study promotes inclusive research approaches and real-world applications. The results offer significant perspectives for scholars, decision-makers, and professionals who seek to include heutagogical approaches into professional development initiatives.

Author Biography

  • Vaibhav Verma, Indian Institute of Teacher Education, India

    VAIBHAV VERMA, M.Ed. & M.A. (Psychology), is a dynamic and tech-savvy educator and researcher with a passion for innovative teaching methodologies and educational research. His areas of interest encompass teaching-learning-related domains and creative teaching paradigms with expertise in heutagogy, digital pedagogy, EdTech, and inclusive education, with a strong commitment to enhancing teaching-learning practices. A prolific author, he has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and presented at prestigious national and international conferences. He is an alumnus of Regional Institute of Education (NCERT), Ajmer and has worked at Indian Institute of Teacher Education, Gandhinagar as a Research Assistant. Actively engaged in transformative educational projects, he strives to foster innovation and lifelong learning in areas of education and psychology. Email: vaibhav.rie@gmail.com

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Published

2025-06-22

How to Cite

Verma, V. (2025). Heutagogical learning in professional development: A bibliometric analysis of published literature between 2010 and 2024. Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies in Education, 14(3), 81-108. https://doi.org/10.32674/tvdrc668