IET Researchers recognised among world's top 2% most-cited scientists

The Institute of Educational Technology (IET) is delighted to celebrate the inclusion of two current and eight former IET colleagues in the latest Stanford/Elsevier World's Top 2% Scientists list, published in October 2026. In total, 88 academics from The Open University feature in this international database, highlighting the global reach and influence of research undertaken across the University. The two current IET academics recognised are Professor Christothea Herodotou and Professor Bart Rienties.

In addition, eight former IET colleagues feature in the list, reflecting the Institute's longstanding contribution to internationally influential research in educational technology, open education and digital learning: Prof Agnes Kukulska-Hulme, Prof Rebecca Ferguson, Dr Adrian Kirkwood, Prof Linda Price, Prof John T.E. Richardson, Prof Mike Sharples, Prof Eileen Scanlon, and Prof Martin Weller

The Stanford/Elsevier database identifies researchers whose publications have achieved particularly high citation impact internationally. Developed by researchers led by Professor John Ioannidis at Stanford University, it uses standardised citation indicators drawn from Scopus, taking into account citation impact, authorship contributions and research fields. 

Professor Bart Rienties, Director of IET, commented:

"It is wonderful to see so many current and former IET colleagues recognised for the international reach of their research. This reflects the strength of our research community and the contributions that IET colleagues have made over many years to advancing educational technology, learning analytics, open education and digital learning. I am particularly pleased that this recognition spans several generations of IET researchers, demonstrating the lasting influence of our work across the international research community."

Congratulations to all 88 OU colleagues included in this year's database, and particularly to our current and former IET colleagues on this recognition.

Source: Stanford/Elsevier Top 2% Scientists Database – 2026 edition