Employing participatory design approaches and AI technologies to enhance public transport systems

About the Project

The recent years have witnessed transformative changes in the design of private cars with creative forms and innovative technologies to enhance the experience of the driver and passengers. On the other hand, changes to public transportation vehicles and systems have been generally very limited and very minor. As a result, public transport systems are currently less attractive despite the policy interest and the inherent benefit of opting to use public transport to address climate change challenges. To efficiently modernise and enhance public transport systems in rural areas in particular, where they are minimally used, the end-users should be involved from the early stages of the design process. The aim of this project is identify gaps and aspects needed to modernise and enhance public transport systems in rural areas using participatory design approaches and AI principles. The enhancement will aim to address gender demands including safety for women as well as for children, elderly and disabled people. This research will also have human cognition at the heart of the enhancement process.

Academic qualifications

A first degree (at least a 2.2) ideally in Transport planning, architecture, architectural technology, architectural engineering, civil and transportation engineering or any built environment, engineering, or computer science related degree.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted.Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

• Good fundamental knowledge of travel behaviour, transport planning and engineering.
• Competent in using AI tools
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Excellent time management skills

Desirable attributes:

• Knowledge of participatory design approaches and virtual settings

When applying click here

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
• Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about:
  1. Background and motivation of the project. The motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
  2. Research questions or objectives.
  3. Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
  4. List of references.
• The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.
• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

To be considered, the application must use

• the advertised title as project title

For informal enquiries about this PhD project, please contact Associate Prof. Suha Jaradat - S.Jaradat@napier.ac.uk