A bibliometric study of digital humanities research in China from 2012 to 2021

Abstract

Introduction. We investigated the main research topics of digital humanities in China from 2012 to 2021, as well as the journals, authors, and institutions that produced the most research in this field.

Method. Based on a sample of relevant digital humanities literature from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, we applied bibliometric methods and visualisation tools for a longitudinal examination.

Analysis. This study took CNKI as the data source and extracted keywords for an analysis of the research output, intellectual structures, and distribution features of authors and institutions.

Results. Digital humanities research in China is strongly associated with library and information science, with eight major reoccurring topics and themes identified. The leading research contributors in China are authors and institutions that are also identified and highlighted.

Conclusions. Digital humanities research in China rapidly grew between 2012 and 2021. This study depicts the overall situation and knowledge structure of the research and establishes a benchmark for further theoretical research and practical innovation of digital humanities in China.