Road safety in the Caribbean region: safe urban mobility from edX

Do you know that in most of the Latin America and the Caribbean countries, more than half of the road traffic fatalities are “vulnerable users”?

Studies have shown that most of the world’s traffic deaths and injuries occur in low- and middle-income countries—and the share is rising; more than half of the victims will be pedestrians and cyclists in urban areas. Low- and middle-income countries also have higher levels of traffic deaths among pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.

Are these enough reasons to get interested in urban mobility?

In Latin America and the Caribbean mobility patterns are changing due to rapid urbanization. We should take this opportunity to challenge the current reality in which cities are built for cars and reshape them into cities for people, reclaiming the streets and public places, making urban mobility more inclusive, safe, and accessible for everyone, particularly for the so-called “vulnerable users”.

In this course, you will learn more about the importance of speed management, safe infrastructure for active mobility such as walking and cycling, and how to effectively combine this knowledge with communication strategies, so you can be part of the task force that is working to improve road safety in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Through readings, videos, hands-on activities, and examples from different countries of the region, this course will support the learners in identifying and applying effective interventions to improve urban mobility.

Enjoy the third course from the Road Safety series, and be prepared to apply these concepts toward safer mobility for all!

This course is "self-paced," so you can enroll at any time, even if the course has been open for a while. You can take it at the time that is most suitable for you inside the enrollment period of the course.

If you choose the Audit Track , you will have unlimited access to the course content, but you won't be able to complete the assessed activities or receive the certificate.

If you opt for the Verified track , you can access the course in an unlimited way and complete the qualified evaluations until the closing date after making a payment of $10. If you pass, in addition to the verified certificate, you will obtain a digital badge * that allows you to change the way you share your academic and professional achievements, for example, on social media.

*Did you know there is financial aid to opt for the verified certificate?

1. edX financial help: edX offers financial assistance for learners who want to earn Verified Certificates but may not be able to pay the Verified Certificate fee. Subscribe to the course and apply for financial assistance.

See more information in the Frequently Asked Questions section below.

What's inside

Learning objectives

At the end of this course, you will be able to:
A. identify the “vulnerable users” and how can you apply vision zero methodologies in the cities.
B. understand the importance of subnational road safety plans and speed management.

C. recognize safe infrastructure for active mobility.
D. combine communication strategies with road safety interventions towards safer urban mobility.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:
A. identify the “vulnerable users” and how can you apply vision zero methodologies in the cities.
B. understand the importance of subnational road safety plans and speed management.
C. recognize safe infrastructure for active mobility.
D. combine communication strategies with road safety interventions towards safer urban mobility.

Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction

Introduction to the so-called “vulnerable users” and the concept of Vision Zero for cities.

Module 2: Speed management and child mobility

This module presents the importance of subnational plans for road safety, speed management, and child safety.

Module 3: Towards a safer infrastructure for active mobility

This module shows some good practices and examples of safe infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

Module 4: Motorcycles, challenges, and experiences

This module highlights the risk motorcyclists face and what are some of the challenges and good practices to reduce this risk.

Module 5: Road Safety Communication campaigns

This module shares insights into how to design a campaign on road safety and how could this kind of intervention be sustainable.

Module 6: Key Concepts and conclusions

This module summarizes some of the main ideas, gives you a chance to review the differences between the traditional/old approach and Vision Zero, and includes a final evaluation.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops key concepts such as Vision Zero for safer mobility, particularly for vulnerable road users

Focuses on the Latin America and Caribbean region, providing relevant examples and case studies

Provides hands-on activities and examples from different countries, enhancing practical knowledge

Taught by experts in road safety and mobility, ensuring content quality

Combines readings, videos, and interactive elements for a comprehensive learning experience

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Road safety in the Caribbean region: safe urban mobility with these activities:

Review the basics of road safety

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Refresh your understanding of the fundamentals of road safety to enhance your engagement with course materials.

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Read an online article or blog post about road safety statistics and trends.
Review key concepts of road safety, such as speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving.

Explore best practices for safe infrastructure for active mobility

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Enhance your understanding of effective strategies for designing and implementing safe infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

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Watch videos or read articles on best practices for pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.
Analyze successful case studies of safe infrastructure projects.

Compile a resource list on road safety best practices

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Consolidate and organize valuable information to enhance your knowledge base and support your learning journey.

Browse courses on Best Practices

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Research and identify credible sources of information on road safety.
Categorize and organize the resources based on topic or type.
Share your resource list with peers or through online platforms.

Five other activities

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Facilitate a discussion on the challenges and opportunities of road safety improvement

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Engage with peers to exchange perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of road safety.

Browse courses on Vision Zero

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Prepare a list of discussion topics and lead the group conversation.
Encourage active participation from all members and facilitate a respectful exchange of ideas.
Summarize the key points and takeaways from the discussion.

Develop a local road safety plan

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Engage in practical application by creating a comprehensive plan to improve road safety in your community.

Browse courses on Vision Zero

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Identify key stakeholders, including local government, law enforcement, and community organizations.
Conduct a thorough assessment of road safety issues in your area.
Develop specific goals and objectives for improving road safety.
Identify strategies and interventions to achieve your goals.
Create a plan for implementing and evaluating your road safety plan.

Design a social media campaign to promote road safety

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Develop creative content to raise awareness and encourage responsible road behavior.

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Define your target audience and identify their social media habits.
Develop a clear message and call to action for your campaign.
Create engaging and visually appealing content.
Choose appropriate social media channels and schedule your posts.
Monitor your campaign's performance and make adjustments as needed.

Participate in a local or regional road safety competition

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Challenge yourself and test your knowledge and skills in a competitive environment, fostering innovation and collaboration.

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Identify relevant road safety competitions in your area.
Form a team or collaborate with others to submit a proposal.
Develop a creative and innovative solution to a specific road safety challenge.
Present your solution at the competition and receive feedback.

Volunteer as a tutor or mentor for road safety education

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Make a meaningful contribution by sharing your knowledge and experiences with others, fostering a culture of road safety awareness.

Browse courses on Mentoring

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Contact local schools or community organizations to inquire about volunteering opportunities.
Develop lesson plans and activities to teach road safety concepts to students or community members.
Provide guidance and support to learners, answering their questions and encouraging their participation.

Career center

Learners who complete Road safety in the Caribbean region: safe urban mobility will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Urban Planner

Urban planning roles can be excellent for those that wish to apply safety considerations to urban mobility. This course goes over strategies for reshaping cities to be more friendly for pedestrians and cyclists, both of which are "vulnerable users" discussed in this course. Urban planners seek to improve communities, and part of this involves helping people get where they need to go in a safe and convenient manner. Because of these similarities, this course could improve your resume and aid your aspirations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

City Manager

City managers, like urban planners, are concerned with improving their communities. In such a role, you would be responsible for managing day-to-day operations, including the allocation of city resources and management of urban infrastructure. This course can help you reach your goals because it can help you learn how to make mobility safer for vulnerable users. Given that this course discusses street reclamation and the importance of accessible public venues, it can help you be a more effective city manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for City Manager

Transportation Engineer

Transportation engineers plan, design, construct, and manage transportation systems. They need to be familiar with the needs of all users of the transportation system, including vulnerable users such as pedestrians and cyclists. This course will help you understand the unique needs of vulnerable users and how to design transportation systems that are safe for everyone. Additionally, this course covers the importance of speed management and safe infrastructure for active mobility, which will aid you in your role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Engineer

Traffic Engineer

A traffic engineer is responsible for planning and designing traffic control systems, such as traffic signals, stop signs, and roundabouts. This course can prepare you for a role in this field by helping you to understand the principles of traffic engineering, including the importance of speed management, safe infrastructure for active mobility, and effective communication strategies. This course may also be of interest to you because of its focus on Latin America and the Caribbean region. If your interest lies in this region, this course may open doors to opportunities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Traffic Engineer

Civil Engineer

Civil engineers design and build infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. They need to be familiar with the principles of traffic engineering and how to design infrastructure that is safe for all users. This course will help you understand the unique needs of vulnerable users and how to design infrastructure that is safe for everyone. You may also be interested in this course because it highlights some good practices and examples of safe infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Public Health Professional

Public health professionals work to improve the health of communities. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course will help you understand the importance of road safety and how to develop and implement effective road safety programs. You may find this course particularly useful if you are interested in working in Latin America and the Caribbean, as this course focuses on this region.

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Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and injury. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course will help you understand the principles of epidemiology and how to apply them to the study of road safety. You may find this course particularly useful if you are interested in working in Latin America and the Caribbean, as this course focuses on this region.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Safety Inspector

Safety inspectors ensure that workplaces and products meet safety regulations. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course will help you understand the principles of safety inspection and how to apply them to the field of road safety. You may find this course particularly useful if you are interested in working in Latin America and the Caribbean, as this course focuses on this region.

See salaries and explore the career path for Safety Inspector

Transportation Planner

Transportation planners develop and implement plans for the transportation system. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course will help you understand the principles of transportation planning and how to apply them to the field of road safety. You may find this course particularly useful if you are interested in working in Latin America and the Caribbean, as this course focuses on this region.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Planner

Road Safety Auditor

Road safety auditors review road designs and construction projects to identify potential safety hazards. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course will help you understand the principles of road safety auditing and how to apply them to the field of road safety. You may find this course particularly useful if you are interested in working in Latin America and the Caribbean, as this course focuses on this region.

See salaries and explore the career path for Road Safety Auditor

Project Manager

Project managers plan, execute, and close projects. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course may be useful for project managers who are working on road safety projects. The course will help you understand the principles of project management and how to apply them to the field of road safety.

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Data Analyst

Data analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course may be useful for data analysts who are working on road safety projects. The course will help you understand the principles of data analysis and how to apply them to the field of road safety.

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Policy Analyst

Policy analysts develop and evaluate public policies. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. This course may be useful for policy analysts who are working on road safety policies. The course will help you understand the principles of policy analysis and how to apply them to the field of road safety.

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Researcher

Researchers conduct research to advance knowledge in a particular field. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, government agencies, and private businesses. This course may be useful for researchers who are working on road safety research. The course will help you understand the principles of research and how to apply them to the field of road safety.

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Health Educator

Health educators develop and implement health education programs. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and community centers. This course may be useful for health educators who are working on road safety education programs. The course will help you understand the principles of health education and how to apply them to the field of road safety.

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