Journal of Knowledge-Research Studies

The Structural Similarity of Information Science Subjects at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz With Iran and The World

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate professor, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

2 Assistant professor, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.

3 Ph.D Student in Knowledge and Information Science, Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the structural similarity of research topics in information science at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz with those in Iran and the global scientific community. By comparing subject structures, the study seeks to reveal the degree of alignment between domestic research and international trends.
Methodology: The research adopts an applied scientometric approach. The statistical population comprises research outputs in the fields of information science and epistemology published in the Web of Science database, including contributions from scholars at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, researchers across Iran, and the global research community. Co-occurrence mapping and structural similarity analyses were employed to identify patterns of thematic convergence.
Findings: The analysis first mapped the thematic structures of information science research globally, nationally, and within Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz. Results show that between 2006 and 2010, Shahid Chamran’s research demonstrated the highest structural similarity with Iran, reaching 6.599%. From 2016 onward, the university’s research became more aligned with global trends, with a similarity rate of 5.375%. At the same time, Iran’s overall research exhibited the strongest alignment with global information science research since 2016, with a structural similarity of 11.92%.
Conclusion: Benchmarking domestic research topics against global trends provides a clear understanding of strengths and weaknesses in national research approaches and policies. Such comparisons ensure that domestic systems remain aligned with international advancements, while also offering policymakers the evidence needed to improve weaker areas, strengthen existing capabilities, and enhance the overall quality and impact of scientific research.
Value: Analyzing the evolution of research topics in a discipline provides insight into dominant themes, innovations, and emerging directions. In the case of information science, identifying these trends not only informs scholars and decision-makers but also highlights opportunities for collaboration and alignment with global advancements. Such studies are essential for advancing knowledge, optimizing resource allocation, encouraging cooperation, and improving the overall quality and international visibility of research within the field.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References
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Journal of Knowledge-Research Studies
Volume 4, Issue 1 - Serial Number 11
May 2025
Pages 86-101
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