Trend analysis of articles published in Ergonomics journal during 2014 to 2023

Aminnejad  M; Hassanzadeh-Rangi  N

doi:10.18502/tkj.v17i3.20032

Aminnejad M Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
Hassanzadeh-Rangi N Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/tkj.v17i3.20032

Keywords: Scientometrics, Ergonomics journal, Content analysis, Cognitive ergonomics, Organizational ergonomics, Physical ergonomics

Abstract

Introduction: Scientometrics is a research field that investigates and analyzes trends and patterns across various journals. This study aimed to analyze the thematic trends and content of articles published in the journal Ergonomics from 2014 to 2023.

Materials and Methods: This research was conducted to investigate articles published in the journal Ergonomics over a 10-year period. All articles published during the specified time period were gathered based on the inclusion criteria. Each article was subsequently categorized according to a defined classification system and imported into Excel 2021 for preparation. To ensure the accuracy of the classifications, supervisors and advisors validated the categorization. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, and cumulative percentage, which were presented in tables, figures, and charts.

Results: Five main themes were identified, comprising approximately 53% of the total content of published articles:"Application of ergonomics in a specific industry or workplace","Human-machine/computer interaction","Physiological and anatomical characteristics","Physicopsychological conditions and occupational factors", and "Ergonomics methodologies, methods, and techniques." Among these, special focus was observed on "Application of ergonomics in a specific industry or workplace" and "Human-machine/computer interaction."

Conclusion: This study reviewed ten years of publications in the journal Ergonomics. The articles mainly focus on the importance of ergonomics in particular industries and on the interaction between humans and machines/computers. The findings show that themes such as "human-machine/computer interaction" and "workplace and equipment design" have shown an upward trend, while the theme "application of ergonomics in specific industries" has declined, indicating a need for more attention. The thematic framework obtained from this study can assist in updating academic curricula, setting research priorities, and selecting thesis topics. Moreover, these trends can influence policymaking and regulations within ergonomics and help in minimizing musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace. Expanding the study to other journals may also provide researchers with more comprehensive insights and assist in selecting appropriate journals for publication.