Citation

Wegmann FJ, Beimborn EA. Highw. Res. Board bull. 1973; 462: 1-13.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1973, National Research Council (U.S.A.), Highway Research Board)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The paper indicates directions and presents alternatives that may be considered in development of a transportation education program. The concept of interdisciplinary education is discussed by considering mechanisms used to establish such programs. Emphasis is given to the concept of a transportation center, and results of a survey of 17 schools with centers for interdisciplinary activities are presented. The function, administrative structure, academic involvement, and effectiveness of the centers are discussed, and comparisons are made in three fields of study: General transportation, urban transportation, and highways. Respondents' reactions to the centers in terms of meeting their objectives are presented and are intended as a guide to the future establishment of such centers. The strongest needs were expressed for continuity of funding and for the reliance on more than one sponsor. The need for administrative support and faculty interest was noted. It is pointed out that there should be a clear need for a center, which would heighten its chances of success. The types and levels of curricula are discussed, and two basic approaches (the menu and cafeteria types) are described. Other techniques in developing an interdisciplinary approach to transportation problems are seminars, team teaching, class projects, sharing of physical facilities, and use of operational gaming. /author/TRID

Language: en

Keywords

TRANSPORTATION; ENGINEERING EDUCATION