Bibliometric Analysis of Wushu Education: Trends, Themes, and Future Directions
List of Authors
Kenny Cheah Soon Lee, Shuchen Liu, Syed Kamaruzaman Syed Ali
Keyword
Bibliometric Analysis, Wushu Education, Research Trends
Abstract
This study used bibliometric analysis to examine trends, themes, and future directions in Wushu education research, emphasizing its evolution from a focus on technical skills to interdisciplinary fields such as pedagogy, cultural communication, and health sciences. The analysis was based on 198 articles published between 2010 and 2024 in the Web of Science database, showing a significant increase in publications and citations since 2016, reflecting increased global recognition. Key themes included the health benefits of Wushu, instructional design, and its role in cultural communication. Nonetheless, the study also identified gaps, such as insufficient research on the interdisciplinary impact of Wushu and limited exploration of its global adaptations, which limit its wider impact. The findings emphasize the potential of Wushu education to address global challenges, promote cross-cultural understanding, and contribute to educational strategies. Future research should focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, cross-cultural studies, and innovative pedagogical applications to maximize the impact of Wushu. Wushu education connects sport, culture, and education, providing transformative opportunities for holistic development and global dialog. This study provides educators, policymakers, and researchers with valuable insights to advocate for the integration of Wushu education into broader educational and cultural frameworks to enhance its global impact.