Portraying Gaps and Trends in Critical Thinking Tendencies in Academic Writings for Future Research Directions: A Bibliometric Study from 1989 to 2021

In response to the growing importance of critical thinking, particularly in academic writing instruction, this study aims to thoroughly investigate a specific writing genre within the broader literature on critical thinking. Additionally, it seeks to identify research opportunities and validate scientific inquiry. Our research provides a comprehensive examination of critical thinking tendencies in academic writings spanning from 1989 to 2021, utilizing data sourced from Bibliometrix, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis tool. We assess bibliometric indicators by applying VOSviewer and Biblioshiny software to shed light on trends and patterns in critical thinking research. Our findings show a significant growth in research interest focused on critical thinking within academic literature over the past three decades, particularly in contentious issues. Moreover, analysis of keyword correlations, geographical distributions, and institutional affiliations suggests that Asian countries are at the forefront of critical thinking and argumentative writing research, with prominent affiliations dispersed throughout the region. By uncovering critical, cutting-edge research themes, this study equips future scholars and practitioners with valuable insights into the evolution of critical thinking inquiries, especially within academic writing contexts. Moreover, it paves the way for developing empirical projects and highlights potential practical implications for advancing critical thinking education in academic settings. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of critical thinking in academic discourse and underscores the need for continued scholarly attention to this crucial aspect of education.