Profiling SDG 4 Research in Southeast Asia: Developing a Comprehensive Research Metrics Model

This study contributes to both academic and scholarly works, providing an evidence-based approach to policy making by offering clear pathways for enhancing SDG 4 research quality, dissemination, and international cooperation. This can ultimately support sustainable educational development throughout the region. This study employs a rigorous Scientometric approach using Scopus and Scival data (2015-2024) to evaluate the SDG 4 research landscape across six countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, and Thailand. Leveraging quantitative and visual analytics, the research explores publication trends, citation dynamics, collaboration networks, and institutional productivity. Results show a surge in publication output, particularly from Indonesia and Malaysia, with a predominant focus on topics like e-learning, case studies, computer-aided instruction, and sustainable development. However, while publications rise, citations exhibit a declining trend, suggesting potential concerns over research quality or a lag in impact. Thematic analysis also highlights underexplored areas such as teacher training, equity in data collection, and policy harmonization across nations. The study also develops a Structural Equation Model (SEM) to unpack relationships between collaboration, open access, and research impact. Findings challenge the notion that higher collaboration inherently drives impact, showing instead that open-access visibility is a more consistent predictor of citation performance. Overall, the research provides critical insights into how Southeast Asian countries are progressing toward achieving SDG 4, while identifying gaps in inclusivity, technological integration, and policy implementation.