Research Article

Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025

Number: Advanced Online Publication Early Pub Date: May 2, 2026

Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025

Abstract

This study aims to comprehensively analyze learner boredom research in English Language Teaching (ELT) conducted between 1981 and 2025. The research is designed to highlight the critical role of boredom in the language learning process and to reveal publication trends, influential studies, and thematic shifts in the literature using a bibliometric approach. A total of 804 documents obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection database were analyzed using the Bibliometrix R-package. Scientific production trends, citation patterns, and keyword evolution were examined through classic bibliometric methods such as Bradford's and Lotka's laws. The results demonstrate a steady annual increase of 4.42% in studies within the field, reaching a peak specifically in 2024-2025. While Kruk and Pawlak emerge as the most prolific authors, it was observed that the focus of research has shifted from general motivational structures toward more specific themes such as willingness to communicate and self-regulation. The research indicates that boredom is now recognized as a dynamic obstacle in language learning rather than an overlooked emotion. These findings offer significant practical implications for curriculum designers and teachers regarding the development of strategies to cope with boredom in digital and hybrid environments.

Keywords

Ethical Statement

This study is based on the bibliometric analysis of secondary data (published article metadata) retrieved from the [Web of Science] databases. The research does not involve any experiments on human or animal subjects, nor does it utilize primary data collection methods such as surveys, interviews, or observations. Therefore, in accordance with the ethical guidelines] and academic publishing standards, this study is exempt from Ethical Committee Approval.

References

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  2. Aria, M., & Cuccurullo, C. (2017). Bibliometrix: An r-tool for comprehensive science mapping analysis. Journal of Informetrics, 11, 959-975. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joi.2017.08.007
  3. Artino, A. R., & Jones, K. D. (2012). Exploring the complex relations between achievement emotions and self-regulated learning behaviors in online learning. The Internet and Higher Education, 15(3), 170–175. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iheduc.2012.01.006
  4. Aubrey, S. (2017). Measuring flow in the EFL classroom: Learners’ perceptions of inter- and intra-cultural task-based interactions. Tesol Quarterly, 51(3), 661–692. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.387
  5. Bensalem, E., Derakhshan, A., Alenazi, F. H., Thompson, A. S., & Harizi, R. (2024). Modeling the contribution of grit, enjoyment, and boredom to predict English as a foreign language students’ willingness to communicate in a blended learning environment. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 132(1), 144-168. https://doi.org/10.1177/00315125241289192
  6. Coşkun, A. (2023). Perception of boredom in young learners’ English language classes. EDUCATIONE, 2(2), 196-217. https://doi.org/10.58650/educatione.1331880
  7. Coskun, A., & Yüksel, Y. (2021). Examining English as a foreign language students’ boredom in terms of different variables. Acuity: Journal of English Language Pedagogy, Literature and Culture, 7(1), 19–36.
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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

British and Irish Language, Literature and Culture

Journal Section

Research Article

Early Pub Date

May 2, 2026

Publication Date

-

Submission Date

March 26, 2026

Acceptance Date

April 29, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Number: Advanced Online Publication

APA
Kıraç Demiray, K. (2026). Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025. Eurasian Journal of English Language and Literature, Advanced Online Publication. https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN
AMA
1.Kıraç Demiray K. Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025. EJELL. 2026;(Advanced Online Publication). https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN
Chicago
Kıraç Demiray, Kübra. 2026. “Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025”. Eurasian Journal of English Language and Literature, no. Advanced Online Publication. https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN.
EndNote
Kıraç Demiray K (May 1, 2026) Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025. Eurasian Journal of English Language and Literature Advanced Online Publication
IEEE
[1]K. Kıraç Demiray, “Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025”, EJELL, no. Advanced Online Publication, May 2026, [Online]. Available: https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN
ISNAD
Kıraç Demiray, Kübra. “Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025”. Eurasian Journal of English Language and Literature. Advanced Online Publication (May 1, 2026). https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN.
JAMA
1.Kıraç Demiray K. Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025. EJELL. 2026. Available at https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN.
MLA
Kıraç Demiray, Kübra. “Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025”. Eurasian Journal of English Language and Literature, no. Advanced Online Publication, May 2026, https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN.
Vancouver
1.Kübra Kıraç Demiray. Bibliometric Analysis of Learner Boredom Research in English Language Teaching: 1981–2025. EJELL [Internet]. 2026 May 1;(Advanced Online Publication). Available from: https://izlik.org/JA75BB68RN