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Module

CEG8423 : Transport Research Methods

  • Offered for Year: 2022/23
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Neil Thorpe
  • Lecturer: Professor Elisabetta Cherchi
  • Owning School: Engineering
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Semester 1 Credit Value: 10
ECTS Credits: 5.0

Aims

The aims of this module are:
1.       To provide an understanding of the statistical background needed to analyse transport data and models output
2.       To provide an understanding of the key modelling tools used to study transport problems
3.       To enable students to develop a working knowledge of relevant software.
4.       To enable students to use these statistical tools and models to approach the transport problems studied in the transport modules in various Master programs.

Outline Of Syllabus

Basic descriptive and inferential statistics; linear and non-linear regression; data reduction techniques (e.g. factor and cluster analysis); basic concepts of constrained and unconstrained optimisation; introduction to statistical programming;

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture31:003:003x1 hour module section introductions (NT, EC, PSG).
Structured Guided LearningLecture materials62:0012:00Lectures
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion150:0050:00Understanding and revision of statistical concepts for online test.
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesPractical61:006:00On-line computer practicals.
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesPractical61:006:00Computer-based practical sessions with structured guided learning
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesPractical21:303:00Support & instruction for PC practical work.
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study201:0020:00Includes background reading for a full understanding of material
Total100:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Teaching and learning of this module is through a combination of lectures, computer demonstrations and practical work, coursework and reading materials. This is in line with the learning outcomes. Lectures and coursework are intended to provide the theoretical background, computer demonstrations and practical work allow students to learn how to link the theory with the practice and help develop problem solving skills. Reading materials helps developing critical, independent and innovative thinking.

For each topic taught in this module a clear link will be made with the specific transport problems that can be solved and the specific modules where that transport problem is discussed.

Alternatives will be offered to students unable to be present-in-person due to the prevailing C-19 circumstances. Student’s should consult their individual timetable for up-to-date delivery information. If we still have to socially distance, present in person sessions will be delivered online synchronous and non-synchronous.

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Computer assessment1A852hr Unseen PC bsed Exam
Report1M15Report of regression analysis
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

This module is assessed by examination ONLY. This format allows a student’s knowledge and understanding of numerical and research methods to be quantified. Transport Research Method is a core module providing the students with the fundamentals of statistical, econometric, programming procedures essential in ensuring academic rigour is preserved in the design and execution of research and applied transport projects. The module will provide the fundamental background to understand the theories and methods thoughts in the modules within the MSc Transport program, and to apply then these theories and methods in the MSc dissertations first and their future work.

Reading Lists

Timetable