01333831

Component

Many benefits of active travel have been widely recognized, including an increase in physical activity and a reduction in the environmental impacts typically associated with travel. For children, programs such as Safe Routes to School may produce these benefits, as well as other, less tangible benefits that have thus far been uncharted. This paper presents results from a study that examines the relationship between travel mode choice and geographic knowledge among third graders in Davis, CA. Using methods that include personal interviews and mental mapping, the study explores whether children who primarily use active modes of travel (specifically biking) have a different spatial understanding of the community than their peers who rely on passive travel modes (e.g. riding in cars with adults). This paper provides a review of the existing literature regarding the travel modes of children as well as their environmental interaction and sense of place. It outlines methods used in the study and presents findings. With this study, we hope to provide community leaders with a broader understanding of the implications of encouraging active travel among children.

01329018

11-3881

English

17p

2011

Transportation Research Board 90th Annual Meeting

DVD

References (18) ; Tables (3)

Bicycling; Cities and towns; Knowledge; Mapping; Maps; Mode choice; Nonmotorized transportation; School children; School trips

Davis (California)

Pedestrians and Bicyclists; Society; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2011 Paper #11-3881

TRIS, TRB

Feb 17 2011 6:40PM