Applying science mapping in built environment research

Abstract

Science mapping (SM) is an effective and useful methodology for studying and understanding the structural and dynamic features of a scientific domain through constructing, analysing and visualising bibliometric networks. Hence, using the method has acquired substantial attention in many fields, including the built environment (BE). Research in BE involves many diverse domains, subjects or topics. Objective mapping and understanding of the knowledge in these domains warrants SM. This chapter provides an introduction to the topic of applying SM in BE research. Essentially, it contributes to addressing the broader question of ‘how to use SM in BE’. A tutorial is given that demonstrates in a step-by-step manner how three software, VOSviewer, CiteSpace and Gephi, can be applied together to conduct robust/deep SM-based research. This chapter could help researchers and other interested stakeholders undertake quality research using SM.