Knowledge Mapping of Robotic Applications in Tourism and Hospitality

Abstract

The use of robots in tourism and hospitality contexts have drawn increasing scholarly and practical regard. Although the number of recent robotics related studies continue to grow, a general knowledge map, which is important to point out promising directions for future studies, remains to be made. To understand the application of robotics in tourism and hospitality, this study conducts descriptive and bibliometric analysis to present a holistic knowledge map of this specific field where research trend, key contributors, highly cited references, and popular themes were identified. Collaboration networks among institutes and regions were additionally illustrated. Collaboration across fields, industries, and perspectives were encouraged following the findings and both theoretical and practical implications are accordingly provided.