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Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of English as a Second Language (ESL) education research, examining 109 documents from the Scopus database to identify global trends, key research themes, and collaborative networks. Through systematic application of bibliometric methods and VOSviewer visualization techniques, the research maps the intellectual landscape of ESL education with particular emphasis on Vietnam's position within the international context. The analysis reveals significant geographic concentration in research output, with the United States, Australia, and Hong Kong emerging as primary contributors, while Vietnam demonstrates growing but still limited research engagement. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identifies critical thematic clusters including higher education, critical thinking, teaching strategies, and artificial intelligence integration. Country collaboration networks illustrate predominantly Western-centric research partnerships with emerging connections in Southeast Asia. The findings indicate temporal evolution in research focus, shifting from traditional pedagogical approaches toward technology-enhanced learning and inclusive educational practices. Drawing from comparative analysis of Vietnam and international ESL contexts, this study proposes evidence-based policy recommendations for sustainable ESL development in Vietnam. These recommendations emphasize strengthening international research collaboration, investing in teacher professional development, integrating technology-enhanced pedagogies, addressing urban-rural disparities, and fostering culturally responsive teaching practices. The research contributes novel insights into the global ESL research ecosystem while providing actionable frameworks for educational policymakers and practitioners seeking to enhance ESL education quality and equity in developing contexts.
Keywords
English as a Second Language, Vietnam, sustainable development, educational policy, international collaboration, technology-enhanced learning