Unlocking the Power of UF’s Library Resources
As a seasoned IT professional, I know the importance of research when it comes to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies, trends, and solutions. The same holds true for students pursuing a degree in Sustainability and the Built Environment (SBE) at the University of Florida (UF). The first step in successful research and writing is learning how to access and utilize the extensive resources available through the George A. Smathers Libraries.
The UF Libraries homepage is the portal to a wealth of digital assets curated from around the world. When working from the UF campus or other Eduroam universities, students can join the Wireless@UF network with their Gatorlink ID to gain full access to these digital resources. For off-campus work, the Gatorlink Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the key to unlocking the institutional network infrastructure and assets.
To get started, I recommend exploring the UF Libraries tutorials page, which covers “how to best use the library website, access library resources, and contact subject specialist librarians.” This will provide a solid foundation for navigating the library’s vast collection of resources.
Mastering the Research Process
The next step in the research journey is to review the basics of productive research. The Introduction to Library Research Guide offers a great gateway into the process, covering everything from getting started to finding, differentiating, and evaluating sources, and ultimately citing and cross-referencing them in your work.
One of the most important support systems within the UF Libraries is the Subject Specialists and Library Guides. These resources offer students direct connections to the librarians and curated core resources affiliated with many of the most common academic fields and topical domains, including those related to the SBE program.
For SBE students, the following Library Guides have been curated for your benefit:
- DCP Related Library Guides
- Additional Library Guides
Beyond the library resources, the UF Writing Studio is another valuable asset, supporting students and faculty at all levels through consultation, workshops, retreats, and resource sharing around the principles and practices of better writing techniques.
Incorporating Citation Management Tools
Scientific, academic, and professional best practices include the clear and comprehensive citation and cross-referencing of original sources when supporting critically reasoned positions and claims. The UF Citation Management Guide provides an overview of some tools and technologies available to support your work.
Within the SBE program, we recommend that students download, install, and use the Zotero citation management software. The Zotero Guide explains this free, third-party, open-source tool and the ways it can “help you to collect, organize, cite, and share your research.” One benefit of using Zotero is the ability to carry over your curated content and citation management skills into your post-collegiate careers by simply changing your account email affiliation.
Depending on each course and instructor, students may be expected to use a variety of academic citation styles throughout their UF journey. Three of the most common academic citation style guidance and tutorial resources can be found at the following links:
- APA Style
- MLA Style
- Chicago Style
For SBE students, we generally suggest using the American Psychological Association (APA) Style within our courses and during the DCP 4290 SBE Senior Capstone course. However, each student’s selected mentor may prefer to work within a specific style familiar to them.
Leveraging Emerging Technologies in Research
As students consider additional forms of research and writing support, they are likely to explore the use of large language models (LLMs) and related machine learning forms of artificial intelligence (AI). The use of LLMs and AI within the classroom, on assignments, and throughout your research is rapidly evolving and may vary by course and instructor.
I encourage students to be diligent, think critically, and engage ethically as they explore these forms of research and writing support. When appropriately applied, they may help to streamline your workflow. One unique option available to UF faculty, students, and staff is the NaviGator AI system, which can selectively use a variety of publicly available LLMs to explore your own datasets.
Expanding Your Global Reach
The University of Florida offers an internationally rich life learning experience, both on campus and abroad. With regards to on-campus international students, UF ranks in the top 25 nationally, the highest of any Florida institution of higher education. Across several thousand international students from approximately 140 countries, the five most represented are China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil.
For domestic students hoping to immerse themselves in another country and culture, UF offers “hundreds of programs to study, research, intern, and participate in service learning abroad.” In recent years, over two thousand UF students have chosen to study abroad, ranking us in the top 15 nationally. SBE students have been among these global jet setters.
To learn more about the UF Abroad program and DCP Global opportunities, visit the UF International Center and the DCP Global website. The SBE program strongly encourages students to participate in an immersive, international, field-based learning experience as a vital part of their UF educational journey.
Continuous Learning and Professional Development
Sustainability and the Built Environment (SBE) program’s mission is to educate and arm graduates with the tools and skills needed to combat climate change and improve the social and economic well-being of the planet and the human race. Staying up-to-date with the latest cutting-edge technologies and tools is a must to advance your knowledge and maximize your contribution to the industry.
In partnership with the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries, the SBE program provides free “premium” access to BuildingGreen, Inc., a Certified B-Corporation that “helps architects, designers, and other sustainability professionals make their projects greener and healthier.” Since 1985, BuildingGreen has been a leading, trusted source for professionals dedicated to sustainability and the built environment.
Within the core course DCP 3210, SBE students have opportunities to complete and earn the same continuing education unit (CEU) certificates pursued by credentialed professionals through the AIA, GBCI, and ILFI. This provides valuable hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials to enhance your professional development.
Remember, the key to successful research and writing as an SBE student at the University of Florida is to take advantage of the vast resources available through the George A. Smathers Libraries, utilize citation management tools, explore global learning opportunities, and continuously expand your knowledge and skills in the field of sustainability and the built environment.
