Bibliometric mapping of theme and trends of augmented reality in the field of education

BackgroundAn innovative and interactive real-world environment can be presented with augmented reality (AR) that comprises digital visual elements, audio, or other sensory information delivered via technology to enhance one's experience. AR has numerous potential applications in various everyday fields. The education sector is one such arena where AR has been implemented prominently globally. AR in education can impact active students' learning to memorize effectively and can persuade them to engage in a meaningful process of learning.ObjectivesThis article presents a bibliometric analysis of some recent applications of AR, emphasizing the potential effects, challenges, and trends of AR in the education sector for the past 15 years.MethodsA total of 3909 documents published during 2006-2020 were retrieved from the Scopus database for analysis. The bibliometric analysis included document types, subject categorization, document growth, as well as top contributing sources, countries, authors, and funding sponsors. It also analyses keywords, abstracts, titles, and characteristics of the most cited documents. Additionally, it provides a brief account of the challenges for AR adaptation in education.Results and conclusionsThe findings uncover an increased use of AR to promote enhanced learning in the education field. This work will provide the survey, limitations, and drawbacks, as well as open usability and technical issues that may represent new challenges for future research in this field. What is already known about this topicAR has numerous potential applications in various everyday fields.The education sector is also one arena where AR has been implemented widely.AR in education can provide effective learning processes to students.Survey of last 15 years (3909 documents) based on the Scopus database.Analysis of AR documents by authors, journals, countries, and funding agencies.Publication trends based on titles, keywords and abstract analysis.Literature survey for top 50 most cited publications on AR in education sector.Implications for practice and/or policyAn increased use of AR to promote enhanced learning in the education field.Reflects the limitations, drawbacks, open usability and technical issues.Future research challenges with AR adaptation in academics and other learners.