Research trend analysis in college general English program before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic: Utilizing topic modeling

Abstract

This study compared research trends in universities general English program before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. After analyzing 248 articles from KCI using frequency analysis, centrality analysis, and topic modeling, this study found consistent keywords indicating a focus on learning objectives, effectiveness analysis, satisfaction surveys, and level-based learning before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Centrality analysis revealed keywords like “teaching, research, analysis” before COVID-19 and “satisfaction, study, level, activity, effect” after COVID-19, indicating a shift towards learner satisfaction, level-based learning, and effectiveness analysis due to the transition to online learning. Topic modeling revealed shifts in research trends: Pre-COVID-19 focused on effective teaching methods, evaluation techniques, and cultural content, while Post-COVID-19 prioritized online teaching methods, web-based platforms, and selfdirected learning. Future research should address self-directed learning, attitudes and goal setting, closing learning gaps in online/blended learning, and developing effective online assessment tools and evaluation strategies. This study provides valuable insights and directions for further research in general English programs.