Data-Driven Transport Planning (CVEN30011)

Urban transport currently faces many challenges to accommodate a growing demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These challenges call for systemic solutions that leverage smart mobility management rather than simple infrastructure expansion. This subject aims to introduce foundational theory and data analysis tools to equip future planners and engineers with knowledge and skills to tackle complex urban transport problems and contribute to a sustainable future. 

Throughout the semester, students will work on a project based on a real-world problem. They will need to understand characteristics of the land use and transport demand in a region; examine the existing transport options; and evaluate whether proposed solutions contribute to sustainable mobility.  

Theoretical aspects discussed during lectures will be implemented and visualised during tutorials using open-source data dashboards, spreadsheets, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software. Some of the lectures will also count with industry guests presenting on how they utilise emerging data sources to guide projects and decision-making.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to: 

• SILO1. Apply transport theory to explain the relationships between the elements of an urban transport system.
• SILO2. Recognise the relationships between accessibility, equity, demand management, smart mobility, and sustainability in urban transport planning.
• SILO3. Collect and analyse different types of transport data using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spreadsheet software.
• SILO4. Evaluate urban transport solutions and systems using multi-modal level of service measures that include accessibility and equity dimensions.
• SILO5. Demonstrate the ability to produce a technical report within the transport industry standards as a team.

Generic skills

• The understanding of the interrelationship of ideas and technologies in multi-disciplinary science
• The ability to apply knowledge of basic engineering fundamentals
• The ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution
• The ability to function effectively as an individual and in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams
• The capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning
• The capacity of communicating technical content via written report