Thematic and methodological trends of research articles published in the Ethiopian Journal of Language, Culture and Communication (EJLCC)

Abstract

This research examined the thematic and methodological trends of research articles published in the Ethiopian Journal of Language, Culture and Communication from 2016- 2021. A total of 52 research articles were downloaded from the data base of the journal. It was then skimmed, classified and analyzed based on the classification scheme developed for this study. The results indicated multifaceted patterns of research trends across the years. While a wide range of research themes were explored quantitatively and qualitatively, classroom pedagogy was the most focused theme. Mixed method studies prevailed overthe studies while interest in theoretical research had gained momentum across the years. Researchers were increasingly exploring theoretical frameworks and concepts to deepen their understanding and contribute to the theoretical foundations of their respective fields. Strikingly contrasted with this result was the absence of synthesis research works published in the journal. Implications for better research publications and further research that could shed light on the research trend of articles published in other language education journals were presented.