Transformational Leadership Research Trends in Education: A Bibliometric Analysis of Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Shifts (2010–2025)

Author Information

Gita Irawanda, State University of Makassar, Indonesia
Sriwidayani Syam, Makassar State University, Indonesia
Andi Ratu Ayuashari Anwar, Makassar State University, Indonesia

Abstract

Transformational leadership has become a central theme in educational research due to its potential to address the increasing complexity of global change. However, comprehensive longitudinal studies that map research trends across both pre- and post-COVID-19 periods remain limited. This study addresses this gap by conducting a bibliometric analysis of 1,225 Scopus-indexed publications spanning 2010–2025. Using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer, the study investigates publication patterns, international collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. The findings reveal a substantial growth in scholarly output in the post-pandemic period, with the United States, Malaysia, Indonesia, and China emerging as leading contributors. Thematic mapping identified five major clusters: distributed and transformational leadership in schools, teacher leadership and professional competence, inclusive leadership, the relationship between leadership and student outcomes, and the strengthening of academic integrity culture. While international collaboration has expanded, significant disparities remain between developed and developing countries in terms of productivity and research networking. This study provides a comprehensive intellectual roadmap and advances recommendations for developing more adaptive leadership frameworks, fostering cross-border collaboration, and integrating multidisciplinary approaches to strengthen the relevance and impact of transformational leadership research in education.

Save as a Favourite