Newcastle University

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To understand the process of the appraisal of transport schemes with the emphasis on a) economic and environmental appraisal and b) a practical application of this knowledge in the form of a mock Public Inquiry. The module is structured in two distinct parts to reflect on this aim.

Outline Of Syllabus

Part A
Introduction to sustainability; economy, environment and social objectives.
Purpose of appraisal
Introduction to the New Approach to Appraisal (NATA) process, NATA Refresh
Economic Principles in Transport Appraisal
Principles of Discounted Cash Flow, Present Value and Net Present value
Techniques of cost-benefit analysis
Economic Objective in NATA
Transport Economic Efficiency
Valuation of time, vehicle operating cost, accidents
COBA Software
TUBA (Transport User Benefit Assessment) Software
Environment Objectives in NATA
Local air quality; problems and solutions; assessment for NATA
greenhouse gases; problems and solutions; assessment for NATA
Noise; problems and solutions; assessment for NATA
Landscape/Townscape/Biodiversity/Water and other drinking objectives in NATA and their assessment
Multi-criteria assessment (MCA) and comparison and ranking of alternatives

Part B
Introduction
What is a Public Inquiry?
Introduction to Appraisal in Transport
Environmental Impact Assessment
Case Study 1 - Guide to the Evidence
Site Visit
Practical Exercises
Mock Public Inquiry 1
Case Study 2 - Guide to the Evidence
Practical Exercises
Mock Public Inquiry 2
Preparation of Planning Inspectors Report
(n.b. number of case studies is dependent on student numbers)

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Part A
To achieve familiarity with the techniques and methods of economic and environmental appraisal, and their applications.
To have an appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of the methods for assessment of transport activity.

Part B
Students will become aware of the legislation and procedures affecting the approval of transport schemes.
Students will have improved presentation skills and the ability to weigh the importance of a variety of factors in a multi-criteria decision process.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Part A
To understand and demonstrate the applications of transport appraisal techniques.
To critically assess the apllication of methods of transport appraisal.

Part B
Retrieval, synthesis and distillation of material
Interpretation and critical evaluation
Formulation of arguments
Oral and visual presentation
Cross-examination
Time management

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Part A
Learning outcomes will be achieved by introducing knowledge and theory in lectures and by exercising the relevant skills in the two part coursework. Lectures are the primary means of delivering the curriculum. Students are given a programme of required reading to supplement the lectures, and are also encouraged to read around the subject as widely as possible. A programme of self study work is provided which explores how the techniques and methods of economic and environmental appraisal are applied, through problem-based exercises. This is designed to achieve familiarity with techniques and methods by allowing students to tackle practical problems and to encourage discussion of issues relating to strengths and weaknesses of the methods. The self study programme helps students to develop problem-solving, numeracy and written communication skills.

Part B
Specialist knowledge, understanding and skills are primarily imparted via lectures, supported by practial group work, two local public inquiry case-studies and a site visit. Students are encouraged and expected to learn through independent reading and reflection which is supported by an extensive list of relevant literature. Observations and discussions during the site visit and a mock public inquiry helps reinforce the lecture and reading material.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The written examination will assess the knowledge, numeracy and problem solving skills. The online examination will also assess computer and literature literacy, practical, time planning and communication skills.

The group presentation refers to each group's performance in the mock Public Inquiry process. The individual report is a piece of reflective practice relating to a student's experiences of the mock Public Inquiry and a catalogue of the Public Inquiry process.

General Notes

N/A