Use of Virtual Tools in Teaching-Learning Processes: Advancements and Future Direction

Abstract

Teaching-learning processes have been affected by the changes that the introduction of information and communication technologies are making to the current global dynamics. This study examines the trends and evolution of the application of virtual tools in teaching-learning processes. Using a bibliometric analysis, 104 articles retrieved using a search equation defined under the PRISMA methodology were analysed. The results allowed the identification of the most influential contributions, authors, and journals, as well as the trends of research carried out in the field, identifying the authors García-Peñalvo, Sánchez-Prieto and Olmos-Migueláñez as the main references in terms of productivity and impact, as well as the journal Computers in Human Behaviour as the most important in academic impact; additionally, it is identified that COVID-19 and online education are among the main emerging concepts, and higher education and the TAM are among the most solid in the research field. Similarly, the research carried out can be classified into four categories based on their main topic: the acceptance of technology; the design of instruments; the design of platforms; and relevant content. Among the main conclusions, it is mentioned that these tools provide aspects of flexibility, coverage and accessibility at all educational levels.