THE EVOLUTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN VOCATIONAL LEARNING ECOSYSTEMS: FROM PERSONALIZATION TO ECOSYSTEM ORCHESTRATION
Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence, Ecosystem Orchestration, Personalized Learning, Adaptive Learning, Vocational Learning EcosystemAbstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming deeply embedded in technical and vocational education and training, yet the literature on this convergence remains fragmented across separate research traditions. This study maps the intellectual structure of AI within vocational learning ecosystems and synthesizes the field's most influential contributions to clarify how AI is reorganizing these ecosystems. The study uses a hybrid design combining bibliometric science mapping with a PRISMA-based systematic review. Researchers searched the Scopus database and analyzed a dataset of 141 documents published between 2012 and 2026 for publication dynamics, geographical distribution, source distribution, citation impact, and keyword co-occurrence; the most conceptually relevant documents were then read in full for narrative synthesis. The field is young but growing rapidly: 104 documents (73.8 percent) were published between 2024 and 2026, and Indonesia is the largest single-country contributor. Co-occurrence analysis produced four thematic clusters: engineering-education and digital-infrastructure ecosystems, AI-based adaptive and personalized learning, vocational and workforce training, and sustainability and policy. Beyond mapping these clusters, this study's principal contribution is a conceptual reframing of AI's role in the field: rather than a discrete instructional tool, AI increasingly functions as an ecosystem orchestration layer that integrates digital infrastructure, adaptive and personalized learning, workforce-aligned competency development, and credentialing systems into a single structure connecting curriculum, learners, industry, and recognition mechanisms. Empirical evidence for this orchestration role, however, remains concentrated in higher education and engineering contexts; direct evidence from vocational settings, including workshops, laboratories, and work-based learning, is still scarce. The findings provide vocational institutions and policymakers with an evidence-based agenda for designing AI-enabled vocational learning ecosystems
References
Abdallah, A.K. (2024). Local to global: Place-based learning in sustainability education. In Legal Frameworks and Educational Strategies for Sustainable Development. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-2987-0.ch013
AbuKhousa, E., El-Tahawy, M.S., & Atif, Y. (2023). Envisioning Architecture of Metaverse Intensive Learning Experience (MiLEx): Career Readiness in the 21st Century and Collective Intelligence Development Scenario. Future Internet, 15(2). https://doi.org/10.3390/fi15020053
Adel, A. (2024). The Convergence of Intelligent Tutoring, Robotics, and IoT in Smart Education for the Transition from Industry 4.0 to 5.0. Smart Cities, 7(1), 325–369. https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities7010014
Ajani, O.A., Gamede, B.T., & Govender, S. (2026). Cultural and ethical dimensions of learning management system adoption in rural universities: Exploring data privacy, algorithmic bias, and contextual realities. Multidisciplinary Science Journal, 8(3). https://doi.org/10.31893/multiscience.2026142
Aldous, S.M., & Ismail, G.A. (2024). Safeguarding the future: Integrating student safety into sustainable education practices. In Legal Frameworks and Educational Strategies for Sustainable Development. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-2987-0.ch018
Ammu, A.L., & Panchikkil, S. (2026). AI-Driven AR/VR Technologies for Adaptive Learning in Language Education. In AI Innovations in Language Education and Communication. CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003659921-8
Ang, K.L.-M., Ge, F.L., & Seng, K.P. (2020). Big Educational Data Analytics: Survey, Architecture and Challenges. IEEE Access, 8, 116392–116414. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2020.2994561
Anthony, B., Kamaludin, A., Romli, A., Raffei, A.F.M., Phon, D.N.A.L.E., Abdullah, A., & Ming, G.L. (2022). Blended Learning Adoption and Implementation in Higher Education: A Theoretical and Systematic Review. Technology, Knowledge and Learning, 27(2), 531–578. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-020-09477-z
Aria, M., & Cuccurullo, C. (2017). bibliometrix: An R-tool for comprehensive science mapping analysis. Journal of Informetrics, 11(4), 959–975. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joi.2017.08.007
August-Mowers, C.M. (2026). The Future of Education Technology: The Future of Teachers' Roles in a Tech-Driven World. In Human-AI Collaboration and the Evolving Role of Educators. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3373-4521-5.ch017
Babu, C.V.S., Nithika Scree, R., & Varshini, R. (2025). The role of artificial intelligence in personalized steam education: Enhancing student-centered learning. In Integrating Personalized Learning Methods Into STEAM Education. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-7718-5.ch008
Chao, K.-M., James, A.E., Nanos, A.G., Chen, J.-H., Stan, S.-D., Muntean, I., Figliolini, G., Rea, P., Bouzgarrou, C.B., Vitliemov, P., Cooper, J., & Van Capelle, J. (2015). Cloud E-learning for Mechatronics: CLEM. Future Generation Computer Systems, 48, 46–59. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.future.2014.10.033
Conde, M.Á., García-Peñalvo, F.J., Fidalgo-Blanco, Á., & Sein-Echaluce, M.L. (2017). Can we apply learning analytics tools in challenge based learning contexts?. Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-58515-4_19
Dabbagh, N., & Castaneda, L. (2020). The PLE as a framework for developing agency in lifelong learning. Educational Technology Research and Development, 68(6), 3041–3055. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-020-09831-z
de Alwis, A., Shrestha, A., & Sarker, T. (2025). Exploring Governance for accreditation in the education sector using blockchain technology: a systematic literature review. Discover Education, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44217-025-00449-y
Deev, M., Gamidullaeva, L., Finogeev, A., Finogeev, A., & Vasin, S. (2021). The convergence model of education for sustainability in the transition to digital economy. Sustainability (Switzerland), 13(20). https://doi.org/10.3390/su132011441
Donthu, N., Kumar, S., Mukherjee, D., Pandey, N., & Lim, W. M. (2021). How to conduct a bibliometric analysis: An overview and guidelines. Journal of Business Research, 133, 285–296. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2021.04.070
Durak, G., & Çankaya, S. (2024). Integrating Micro-Credentials with AI in Open Education. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-5488-9
Eljak, H., Ibrahim, A.O., Saeed, F., Hashem, I.A.T., Abdelmaboud, A., Syed, H.J., Abulfaraj, A.W., Ismail, M.A.B., & Elsafi, A. (2024). E-Learning-Based Cloud Computing Environment: A Systematic Review, Challenges, and Opportunities. IEEE Access, 12, 7329–7355. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2023.3339250
Erdt, M., Fernández, A., & Rensing, C. (2015). Evaluating Recommender Systems for Technology Enhanced Learning: A Quantitative Survey. IEEE Transactions on Learning Technologies, 8(4), 326–344. https://doi.org/10.1109/TLT.2015.2438867
Fake, H., & Dabbagh, N. (2023). Designing Personalized Learning Experiences: A Framework for Higher Education and Workforce Training. Taylor and Francis. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003121008
Fan, T. (2026). Intelligent education platform for industry-education integration: Technical architecture and key algorithms. Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3104436
Fortuna, A., Prasetya, F., Samala, A.D., Rawas, S., Criollo-C, S., Kaya, D., Raihan, M., Andriani, W., Safitri, D., & Nabawi, R.A. (2025). Artificial intelligence in personalized learning: A global systematic review of current advancements and shaping future opportunities. Social Sciences and Humanities Open, 12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssaho.2025.102114
Funda, V., & Piderit, R. (2024). A review of the application of artificial intelligence in South African Higher Education. 2024 Conference on Information Communication Technology and Society, ICTAS 2024 - Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICTAS59620.2024.10507113
Genga, C.A., & Babalola, S.S. (2025). Digital Transformation: The Need for a Sustainable Green Culture in African Higher Education Institutions. Journal of Educational Technology Development and Exchange, 18(1), 109–130. https://doi.org/10.18785/jetde.1801.07
Goagoses, N., Winschiers-Theophilus, H., Auala, S., Pope, N., Rötkönen, E., Itenge, H., Suero Montero, C., Suovuo, T., & Sutinen, E. (2025). Teachers and Students Envisioning Mixed Reality Remote Learning: A Qualitative Exploration on Fostering Academic Engagement. Technology, Knowledge and Learning, 30(2), 685–709. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-024-09797-4
González-Martínez, J.A., Bote-Lorenzo, M.L., Gómez-Sánchez, E., & Cano-Parra, R. (2015). Cloud computing and education: A state-of-the-art survey. Computers and Education, 80, 132–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2014.08.017
Gupta, V., Wadgaonkar, N., Divase, H., Anthony, A., & Sweta, S. (2023). Impact of adaptive blended e-learning in area of educational data mining in technical education. AIP Conference Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0148293
Harizan, S.H.M., & Ally, M. (2025). ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN MICRO-CREDENTIALS FOR OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING: A TECHNOLOGICALLY ENHANCED SYSTEMATIC REVIEW. Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education, 26(3), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.17718/tojde.1552001
Hendric, S.W.L.H., & Rosmansyah, Y. (2025). Immersive Learning Model for University (ILMU): A Novel VR-Based Distance Learning in Higher Education. IEEE Access, 13, 156734–156754. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3606957
Ismail, G.A., & Aldous, S.M. (2025). AI-Driven health and safety management in school facilities. In Convergence of AI, Education, and Business for Sustainability. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3373-1917-9.ch002
Kassenkhan, A., Serbin, V., Beisembekova, R., Abshukirova, A., & Mendekina, B. (2026). AI-Supported Gamification in E-Learning: A Systematic Review of Adaptive Architectures and Cognitive Outcomes. Information (Switzerland), 17(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/info17030282
Li, G., & Lu, Y. (2025). Construction and Application of a Formula-Augmented Knowledge Graph for Adaptive Vocational Education in Power Grid Planning. Proceedings of 2025 International Conference on Educational Technology and Artificial Intelligence, ETAIC 2025. https://doi.org/10.1145/3766557.3766637
Lin, J., Li, B., Cui, L., & Miao, C. (2021). Practices of Using Blockchain Technology in e-Learning. ACM International Conference Proceeding Series. https://doi.org/10.1145/3503181.3503191
Mahande, R.D., Abdal, N.M., Nasir, N., & Rahmi, U. (2026). Design and effectiveness of the HyFlex-VR learning model for emancipated learning in higher education. Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, 18(3), 951–972. https://doi.org/10.1108/JARHE-12-2024-0713
Maskeliūnas, R., Damaševičius, R., Blažauskas, T., Swacha, J., Queirós, R., & Paiva, J.C. (2023). FGPE+: The Mobile FGPE Environment and the Pareto-Optimized Gamified Programming Exercise Selection Model—An Empirical Evaluation. Computers, 12(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/computers12070144
Md Harizan, S.H., & Ally, M. (2024). Artificial Intelligence in Micro-Credentials for Open and Distance Learning: A Technologically-Enhanced Systematic Review. In Integrating Micro-Credentials with AI in Open Education. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-5488-9.ch0014
Meletiadou, E. (2025). Generative AI approaches to sustainable development in higher education. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-5623-4
Merl, C., Guralnick, D., Dolezal, D., Posekany, A., & Koppensteiner, G. (2025). Ethical AI in Engineering Education: A Case Study on Mindset, Behaviors, and AI Literacy. In Standards-Based AI Innovation for the Learning Ecosystem. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3373-2235-3.ch004
Mogano, T.M., & Minty, R. (2026). Barriers and Enablers in the Adoption of Homework Intelligent Tutoring Systems among University Students in Disadvantaged South African Areas. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 25(1), 872–901. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.25.1.40
Mukhamediyeva, K., Nurbekova, Z., Nurgazinova, G., & Aimicheva, G. (2025). Enhancing engineering thinking skills of pre-service IT teachers through cross-cutting educational technologies and stem projects. International Journal of Education and Practice, 13(2), 669–687. https://doi.org/10.18488/61.v13i2.4126
Oubagine, R., Laaouina, L., Jeghal, A., & Tairi, H. (2025). Neuroeducation and Artificial Intelligence: A Systematic Review of Innovative Approaches for Personalized E-learning. 2025 4th International Conference on Embedded Systems and Artificial Intelligence, ESAI 2025. https://doi.org/10.1109/ESAI67033.2025.11438800
Page, M. J., McKenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., … Moher, D. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 statement: An updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ, 372, n71. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n71
Papadakis, S. (2026). Virtual Tutors and AI-Powered Instructional Tools in K-12 Settings. IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3373-2637-5
Patras, Y.E., Japar, M., Rahmawati, Y., & Hidayat, R. (2025). Integration of Culturally Responsive Teaching Approach, Local Wisdom, and Gamification in Pancasila Education to Develop Students' Multicultural Competence. Educational Process: International Journal, 14. https://doi.org/10.22521/edupij.2025.14.45
Pérez-Jorge, D., González-Afonso, M.C., Santos-Álvarez, A.G., Plasencia-Carballo, Z., & Perdomo-López, C.D.L.Á. (2025). The Impact of AI-Driven Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) on Educational Information Management. Information (Switzerland), 16(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/info16070540
Rachmadi, P., Situmorang, R., Sukardjo, M., Indrajit, R.E., & Gautama, E. (2025). Enhancing Entrepreneurial Competencies and Student Engagement through Gamification in Learning Management Systems. APTISI Transactions on Technopreneurship, 7(2), 593–604. https://doi.org/10.34306/att.v7i2.589
Raffi, M.L.M., Hussain, M.A.M., Mustafa, W.A., Zabidi, M.N.A., Mardiansyah, A., & Subari, K. (2025). A Systematic Review of Open-Source Software for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Sciences and Engineering Technology, 49(2), 75–89. https://doi.org/10.37934/araset.49.2.7589
Rong, C. (2024). An AI-Driven Decision Framework for Promoting Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Vocational Colleges. Decision Making: Applications in Management and Engineering, 7(2), 748–769. https://doi.org/10.31181/dmame7220251481
Sakhipov, A., Baidildinov, T., Yermaganbetova, M., & Ualiyev, N. (2023). Design of an Educational Platform for Professional Development of Teachers with Elements of Blockchain Technology. International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications, 14(7), 519–527. https://doi.org/10.14569/IJACSA.2023.0140757
Santamaría-Bonfil, G., Díaz-Rodríguez, H.D., Arroyo-Figueroa, G., & Batres, R. (2021). Knowledge modelling for ill-defined domains using learning analytics: Lineworkers case. Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-57799-5_42
Schoenenberger, H. (2024). Connected Learning: Origins, Opportunities, and Perspectives of Contemporary Educational Design: A Machine-Generated Literature Overview. Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-37813-3
Semerikov, S.O., Vakaliuk, T.A., Mintii, I.S., Hamaniuk, V.A., Bondarenko, O.V., Nechypurenko, P.P., Shokaliuk, S.V., & Moiseienko, N.V. (2025). Immersive cloud-based mobile learning tools in higher education: a systematic review of integration frameworks and implementation strategies. CEUR Workshop Proceedings.
Stošić, L., Radonjić, A., Krčadinac, O., Baltezarević, B., & Mikhailova, O. (2025). Personalized Learning through Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities, Risks, and Policy Perspectives. International Journal of Cognitive Research in Science, Engineering and Education, 13(2), 541–549. https://doi.org/10.23947/2334-8496-2025-13-2-541-549
Suyatmo, S., Prayitno, H., Wirawan, W.A., Pratiwi, D.I., & Waluyo, B. (2025). Preparing industry-ready graduates: Interplay of lecturer behavior, self-motivation, and soft skill development in vocational education. Acta Psychologica, 261. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105892
van Eck, N. J., & Waltman, L. (2010). Software survey: VOSviewer, a computer program for bibliometric mapping. Scientometrics, 84(2), 523–538. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-009-0146-3
Wahyudi, M.N.A., Budiyanto, C.W., Widiastuti, I., & Pambudi, N.A. (2025). Beyond Points and Badges: Deepening Engagement in MOOCs through Gamification. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, 19(1), 18–33. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v19i01.51705
Wahyuni, D.S., Agustini, K., Sindu, I.G.P., & Sugihartini, N. (2020). Analysis on vocational high school teacher competency gaps: Implication for VHS teacher training needs. Journal of Physics: Conference Series. https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/1516/1/012051
Wang, J., Ye, X., Liu, D., & Qin, Q. (2025). A Bibliometric Analysis of Visualizing the Knowledge Mapping for Metaverse in Education. 2025 11th International Conference on Education and Training Technologies, ICETT 2025. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICETT66247.2025.11136937
Wannapiroon, N., & Pimdee, P. (2022). Thai undergraduate science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) creative thinking and innovation skill development: a conceptual model using a digital virtual classroom learning environment. Education and Information Technologies, 27(4), 5689–5716. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-021-10849-w
Watrianthos, R., Ahmad, S.T., & Muskhir, M. (2023). Charting the Growth and Structure of Early ChatGPT-Education Research: A Bibliometric Study. Journal of Information Technology Education: Innovations in Practice, 22, 235–253. https://doi.org/10.28945/5221
Yang, L., Ding, D., & Han, R. (2026). Research on the Digital-Intelligent Construction of Digital Communication Teaching Based on the EduCoder Platform. Proceedings of 2025 4th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Education, ICAIE 2025. https://doi.org/10.1145/3797552.3797591
Zotov, V., Ibrahim, I., Petunina, I., & Lazareva, Y. (2021). Engagement of Students in Data Visualization for the Purpose of E-Learning Improvement. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 16(2), 46–63. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v16i02.18745
Zupic, I., & Čater, T. (2015). Bibliometric methods in management and organization. Organizational Research Methods, 18(3), 429–472. https://doi.org/10.1177/1094428114562629
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
Citation Check
License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Authors submitting a manuscript do so on the understanding that if accepted for publication, the copyright of the article shall be assigned to Jurnal Dinamika Vokasional Teknik Mesin
