Bibliometric Analysis of Studies on Higher Order Thinking Skills in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) Database

Abstract

The aim of this study is to make a bibliometric analysis of the articles on higher order thinking skills in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Since the research topic has a universal dimension, it is considered important to describe the current situation as it will add a broader perspective to future studies on higher order thinking skills. Bibliometric analysis method was used to examine the articles on higher order thinking skills in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database in terms of various variables. In this study, for bibliometric mapping analysis, the Web of Science Categories database was extensively searched on 17.09.2024, including the years 1970/2024 and under the subject headings "Metacognitive thinking skills" (Topic) or "Reflective thinking skills" (Topic) or "Creative thinking skills" (Topic) or "Critical thinking skills" in the search query. In the process of data analysis, descriptive characteristics of the studies on thinking skills were determined and the most effective journals on high-level thinking skills were identified. In addition, in the process of data analysis, the sources were categorized according to Bradford's law and the most cited articles worldwide were determined. On the other hand, the most influential authors on higher order thinking skills and the most frequently used keywords related to the subject together with the influential countries according to scientific production and citations were determined, and current research topics related to higher order thinking skills were identified.