ABSTRACT

Purpose Pre-service teacher education is pivotal in shaping the historical trajectory of education both domestically and internationally. Methodology This study utilises Citespace software to analyse literature sourced from CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) and Web of Science, encompassing the period from 2003 to 2023, to examine the developmental history of pre-service teacher education both in China and globally, while identifying key evolving nodes in this field. Findings. Results reveal that domestic educational reforms have facilitated innovative approaches to teacher training models and the revitalisation of educational philosophies. In contrast, international pre-service teacher education prioritises the enhancement of teachers' professional attributes and instructional competencies, advocating for practice-oriented methodologies and the integration of pedagogical principles. Implications for research and practice. Regarding research focal points, both domestic and international contexts highlight significant themes such as curriculum reform, teacher evaluation, and professional development. Moreover, the emergence of digital technologies has introduced new considerations for teacher education. Looking forward, trends in pre-service teacher education are anticipated to centre on deepening practical engagement and innovating educational theories, alongside fostering international collaboration to collectively advance the field of teacher education.