A Synthesis of e-Learning Research Topics: A Qualitative Content Analysis

Abstract

Because of the prevalence and improvements in digital technology, e-learning is now commonly delivered in various delivery modes, including online, blended, and mobile learning. Over the years, extensive research on e-learning has explored diverse topics, ranging from instructional design to digital skills, student-centred learning, and so on. Given the ever-expanding body of literature, there is an essential need to systematically synthesise the vast research topics on e-learning. This study addresses this need by conducting a qualitative content analysis of primary empirical articles on e-learning that were published in the Electronic Journal of e-Learning (EJEL) from its first issue in 2003 to 2024. The primary objective of this study is to examine the research foci of these articles to identify key research topics, thereby providing a thorough review of e-learning research over the last two decades. The study findings suggested six main categories of research topics: (1) user experience, (2) learner attributes, (3) learning outcomes, (4) teaching and learning, (5) adoption barriers, and (6) educator preparedness. The findings also showed that the six main categories could be further divided into 21 subcategories. These topics reflect a broad range of e-learning research across pedagogical, technological, and sociocultural dimensions. By synthesising e-learning research over the past two decades in EJEL, this study adds to the cumulative body of knowledge on research topics that have shaped the research landscape in e-learning, as well as reveals potentially underexplored areas.