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Transport Studies
Welcome to the Comprehensive Course on With interactive quizzes and assignments, you'll gain hands-on experience and ensure a deep understanding of the concepts.
Course Overview:
Read more
Welcome to the Comprehensive Course on With interactive quizzes and assignments, you'll gain hands-on experience and ensure a deep understanding of the concepts.
Course Overview:
Read more
Welcome to the Comprehensive Course on With interactive quizzes and assignments, you'll gain hands-on experience and ensure a deep understanding of the concepts.
Course Overview:
Introduction to Traffic and Pedestrian Simulation
Why simulation is crucial in transportation planning
Overview of VISSIM and VISWALK software
VISSIM Basics
Navigating the VISSIM interface
Creating and editing road networks
Defining vehicle types and properties
VISWALK Basics
Introduction to pedestrian simulation
Setting up pedestrian areas and paths
Managing pedestrian flow and behaviors
Calibration and Validation
Calibrating VISSIM models for accurate real-world conditions
Validating simulation outcomes with real-world data
Real Case Studies
Exploring real-world case studies using VISSIM and VISWALK
Analyzing simulation results and insights
Project Work and Assignments
Practical exercises to reinforce learning
Guidance on applying simulation techniques in real-life scenarios
Q&A and Community Support
Ongoing Q&A for clarifications
Community discussions for shared learning and insights
Why Enroll?
By the end of this course, you will be an expert in traffic and pedestrian simulation using VISSIM and VISWALK, equipped with practical skills to excel in transportation planning and simulation.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/mohgxw/enhance
What's inside
Syllabus
Become familiar with Traffic Simulation, understand what is traffic simulation. Download PTV VISSIM and becoming familiar with it.
Introduction
Read more
Syllabus
Become familiar with Traffic Simulation, understand what is traffic simulation. Download PTV VISSIM and becoming familiar with it.
Introduction
Read more
Evaluate your understanding of Section 1 through this Quiz.
This is an advanced quiz and you may require to thoroughly practice each and every part of this course in order to solve it correctly. Solutions to some of the questions may not be directly given in the lectures but can be obtained while practicing simulation in the software. In case of any questions, feel free to post in Q and A.
This lecture is taken from Transportation Engineering 201 course where we are teaching Aimsun software for traffic simulation as well as PTV VISUM for travel demand modeling
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Provides hands-on experience with VISSIM and VISWALK, which are industry-standard software tools for traffic and pedestrian simulation
Covers calibration and validation techniques, which are essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of simulation results in real-world applications
Includes real-world case studies, which offer practical insights into how simulation can be used to address transportation challenges
Begins with the basics of VISSIM and VISWALK, which builds a strong foundation for those new to traffic and pedestrian simulation
Requires downloading PTV VISSIM, which may require a license or subscription fee, potentially posing a barrier for some learners
Includes a lecture taken from another course using Aimsun and PTV VISUM, which may not be directly relevant to the core focus of VISSIM and VISWALK
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Practical vissim and viswalk simulations
According to learners, this course on VISSIM and VISWALK simulation is largely positive, particularly for those new to the software or seeking practical skills. Many appreciate the clear guidance on software installation and getting started. Students highlight the value of practical assignments and projects, stating they effectively reinforce learning. The inclusion of real-world case studies is frequently praised for demonstrating practical applications. While the software interface presents a learning curve for some, and a few more experienced users felt it lacked depth on advanced topics, the course is considered a solid foundation. There are indications that the instructor provides support and that the course content has been updated, addressing previous minor issues like software version differences.
UI takes time to navigate efficiently.
"Navigating the VISSIM interface felt a bit overwhelming at first."
"The software's user interface has a bit of a learning curve."
"It requires practice to become comfortable with the VISSIM UI."
Content is updated over time.
"It seems the course content has been updated recently, which is great."
"Glad to see ongoing maintenance and updates to the material."
"The course appears to be evolving based on feedback."
Instructor responds to questions.
"The instructor was very quick to answer my questions in the Q&A."
"Support provided in the community forum was helpful."
"Responses to queries were timely and useful."
Exercises reinforce learning effectively.
"The assignments and project work really helped me practice the tools."
"The practical exercises helped me solidify my understanding."
"The final project is a great way to apply everything learned."
Clear guidance on software installation.
"The step-by-step instructions for downloading and installing the software were a lifesaver."
"It was easy to get started with VISSIM thanks to the clear setup guide."
"Clear guidance on setting up the software environment."
Focus on real-world case studies.
"The real case studies section was incredibly helpful for understanding practical use."
"I really appreciate the emphasis on applying concepts to real-world scenarios."
"The practical examples made the concepts much clearer and applicable."
Minor issues with software version differences.
"The software version used in some videos was slightly older than the current one."
"Had minor discrepancies following lectures due to version differences."
"Small compatibility issues arose from using different software versions."
Might lack depth for advanced users.
"As an experienced user, I found some sections a bit too basic."
"Could benefit from more advanced coverage on calibration techniques."
"Had to look elsewhere for more in-depth explanations on complex models."
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 Enhance Traffic Simulations with VISSIM & VISWALK with these
activities:
Review Traffic Engineering Fundamentals
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of fundamental traffic engineering concepts to better grasp the nuances of traffic simulation.
Browse courses on
Traffic Engineering
Show steps
-
Review basic traffic flow parameters like speed, density, and volume.
-
Study intersection control methods and signal timing principles.
-
Familiarize yourself with highway capacity analysis techniques.
Read 'Traffic Flow Theory: A Monograph'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of traffic flow to improve your simulation accuracy.
View
Putting Knowledge to Work
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of 'Traffic Flow Theory: A Monograph'.
-
Read the chapters on fundamental traffic flow relationships.
-
Take notes on key concepts and equations.
Simulate a Simple Intersection
Show steps
Practice building a basic VISSIM model of a simple intersection to familiarize yourself with the software interface and core functionalities.
Show steps
-
Create a new VISSIM project and set up the coordinate system.
-
Draw the road network representing the intersection.
-
Define vehicle types and input traffic volumes.
-
Run the simulation and observe the traffic behavior.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Document Simulation Workflow
Show steps
Create a detailed document outlining the steps involved in building and calibrating a VISSIM or VISWALK model to reinforce your understanding and serve as a future reference.
Show steps
-
Choose a specific simulation scenario (e.g., signalized intersection, pedestrian crossing).
-
Document each step of the model building process, including screenshots.
-
Describe the calibration and validation techniques used.
-
Organize the document in a clear and concise manner.
Read 'Fundamentals of Traffic Simulation'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of traffic simulation to improve your simulation accuracy.
View
Putting Knowledge to Work
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of 'Fundamentals of Traffic Simulation'.
-
Read the chapters on fundamental traffic flow relationships.
-
Take notes on key concepts and equations.
Model a Real-World Intersection
Show steps
Apply your knowledge to simulate a real-world intersection using VISSIM, including data collection, model building, calibration, and analysis.
Show steps
-
Select a real-world intersection to model.
-
Collect data on traffic volumes, signal timing, and geometry.
-
Build the VISSIM model based on the collected data.
-
Calibrate and validate the model using real-world observations.
-
Analyze the simulation results and draw conclusions.
Optimize Signal Timing
Show steps
Use VISSIM to optimize signal timing at an intersection to reduce delays and improve traffic flow, then present your findings.
Show steps
-
Build a VISSIM model of a signalized intersection.
-
Experiment with different signal timing plans.
-
Evaluate the performance of each plan using MOEs.
-
Create a presentation summarizing your findings and recommendations.
Review Traffic Engineering Fundamentals
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of fundamental traffic engineering concepts to better grasp the nuances of traffic simulation.
Browse courses on
Traffic Engineering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic traffic flow parameters like speed, density, and volume.
- Study intersection control methods and signal timing principles.
- Familiarize yourself with highway capacity analysis techniques.
Read 'Traffic Flow Theory: A Monograph'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of traffic flow to improve your simulation accuracy.
View
Putting Knowledge to Work
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of 'Traffic Flow Theory: A Monograph'.
- Read the chapters on fundamental traffic flow relationships.
- Take notes on key concepts and equations.
Simulate a Simple Intersection
Show steps
Practice building a basic VISSIM model of a simple intersection to familiarize yourself with the software interface and core functionalities.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a new VISSIM project and set up the coordinate system.
- Draw the road network representing the intersection.
- Define vehicle types and input traffic volumes.
- Run the simulation and observe the traffic behavior.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Document Simulation Workflow
Show steps
Create a detailed document outlining the steps involved in building and calibrating a VISSIM or VISWALK model to reinforce your understanding and serve as a future reference.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific simulation scenario (e.g., signalized intersection, pedestrian crossing).
- Document each step of the model building process, including screenshots.
- Describe the calibration and validation techniques used.
- Organize the document in a clear and concise manner.
Read 'Fundamentals of Traffic Simulation'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of traffic simulation to improve your simulation accuracy.
View
Putting Knowledge to Work
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of 'Fundamentals of Traffic Simulation'.
- Read the chapters on fundamental traffic flow relationships.
- Take notes on key concepts and equations.
Model a Real-World Intersection
Show steps
Apply your knowledge to simulate a real-world intersection using VISSIM, including data collection, model building, calibration, and analysis.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a real-world intersection to model.
- Collect data on traffic volumes, signal timing, and geometry.
- Build the VISSIM model based on the collected data.
- Calibrate and validate the model using real-world observations.
- Analyze the simulation results and draw conclusions.
Optimize Signal Timing
Show steps
Use VISSIM to optimize signal timing at an intersection to reduce delays and improve traffic flow, then present your findings.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Build a VISSIM model of a signalized intersection.
- Experiment with different signal timing plans.
- Evaluate the performance of each plan using MOEs.
- Create a presentation summarizing your findings and recommendations.
Career center
Learners who complete Enhance Traffic Simulations with VISSIM & VISWALK will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Transportation Modeler
Transportation Modeler
Transportation modelers create computer-based models of transportation systems to analyze and forecast traffic patterns, evaluate transportation projects, and develop transportation plans. In this role, you might work with large datasets, advanced software, and statistical methods to create accurate and reliable models. The knowledge and skills gained in this course directly prepares a transportation modeler for using VISSIM and VISWALK, industry-standard software for traffic and pedestrian simulation. The course's inclusion of real-world case studies and project work help build a strong foundation.
Traffic Engineer
Traffic Engineer
A traffic engineer focuses on the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. This often involves designing and optimizing road networks, traffic signals, and pedestrian walkways. This course on traffic simulation can equip you with the skills to model and analyze different traffic scenarios, predict outcomes, and make data-driven decisions to improve traffic flow. VISSIM experience, in particular, allows a traffic engineer to evaluate design alternatives and optimize traffic signal timings before implementation, saving time and resources. The real-world case studies and project work provided by the course offers a practical foundation for a future traffic engineer.
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planner
Transportation planners develop strategies and plans for transportation systems, considering factors such as population growth, land use, and environmental impact. A course that covers traffic and pedestrian simulation can provide valuable tools for analyzing the impact of different transportation policies and infrastructure projects. This knowledge applies to forecasting future travel demand and evaluating the effectiveness of proposed solutions. The hands-on experience in the course with VISSIM and VISWALK allows a transportation planner to create detailed models of transportation networks and simulate the effects of various interventions. Further, the course's emphasis on calibration and validation helps to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results.
Simulation Specialist
Simulation Specialist
A simulation specialist uses computer models to analyze and predict the behavior of complex systems. The skills learned in traffic simulation apply directly to this role, where you might be responsible for developing and running simulations of transportation networks. You can help optimize traffic flow and improve safety. This course equips a simulation specialist with specific expertise in VISSIM and VISWALK, widely used software in the transportation industry. The course modules on calibration, validation, and real-world case studies help refine the skills and techniques that a simulation specialist requires.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban planners are involved in the design and development of cities and towns, and transportation is a critical component of urban planning. This course on traffic and pedestrian simulation may be useful because it can provide insights into how transportation systems affect urban environments, and vice versa. An urban planner can use the modeling skills gained in this course to assess the impact of new developments on traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and overall urban mobility. With the course's focus on VISWALK further prepares an urban planner to create pedestrian-friendly environments.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain the built environment, including transportation infrastructure. This course on traffic simulation can help expand your knowledge of how transportation systems operate and how to optimize their performance. A civil engineer can apply these skills to design roadways, intersections, and other transportation facilities that are safe, efficient, and sustainable. The VISSIM and VISWALK expertise gained through the course offerings may enable a civil engineer to consider the impacts of design choices on the flow of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Transportation Safety Engineer
Transportation Safety Engineer
Transportation safety engineers work to reduce accidents and improve safety on roads and highways. This course on traffic simulation can help you analyze traffic patterns, identify potential safety hazards, and evaluate the effectiveness of safety countermeasures. The knowledge of VISSIM and VISWALK gained in this course may enable a transportation safety engineer to simulate different accident scenarios and identify factors that contribute to crashes.
Transit Planner
Transit Planner
Transit planners focus on the design and operation of public transportation systems. In the transportation industry, a transit planner's goal is to improve the efficiency, reliability, and accessibility of public transportation. This course in traffic simulation may be valuable in analyzing the impact of transit operations on traffic flow, optimizing transit routes, and evaluating the effectiveness of transit investments. Since the course covers traffic simulation as well as pedestrian simulation, this may be useful to a transit planner.
Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineer
Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineer
Intelligent Transportation Systems engineers develop and implement technologies to improve the safety and efficiency of transportation systems. This course on traffic simulation can provide you with a deeper understanding of how traffic flows, how to collect and analyze traffic data, and how to use technology to improve transportation outcomes. The information covered in this course may be helpful to an Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineer.
Traffic Calming Specialist
Traffic Calming Specialist
Traffic calming specialists focus on designing and implementing measures to reduce traffic speed and volume in residential areas. In this role, you might work with communities to identify traffic problems, develop solutions, and evaluate their effectiveness. This course on traffic simulation can provide valuable tools for modeling the impact of different traffic calming measures and optimizing their design. With the background offered in VISWALK, a Traffic Calming Specialist will be able to simulate pedestrian impact.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data analysts collect, clean, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights and support decision-making. In the transportation sector, data analysts may work with traffic data, accident data, and other types of data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. This course can help you understand how traffic simulation models generate data, and how to use that data to analyze traffic patterns and evaluate the effectiveness of transportation interventions. A data analyst who wishes to enter the transportation industry should take this course.
Highway Engineer
Highway Engineer
Highway engineers design, construct, and maintain highways and other roadways. This course on traffic simulation can help you understand how traffic flows on highways, how to optimize highway design for safety and efficiency, and how to evaluate the impact of highway projects on the environment. A Highway Engineer must be aware of traffic simulation, and this course provides a solid introduction.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research scientists conduct research to advance knowledge and develop new technologies. In the transportation field, research scientists may work on projects related to traffic flow, transportation safety, and sustainable transportation. This course on traffic simulation can help you understand the fundamentals of traffic modeling and simulation, and how to use these tools to conduct research. A research scientist may find this course a helpful introduction to the topic.
Lecturer
Lecturer
Lecturers teach courses at colleges and universities. If you have expertise in transportation engineering or a related field, you might teach courses on traffic flow theory, transportation planning, or transportation modeling. This course may provide you with updated knowledge of traffic simulation software and techniques. A lecturer who can offer real-world case studies using VISSIM and VISWALK may be a good resource for students.
Geospatial Analyst
Geospatial Analyst
Geospatial analysts use geographic information systems to analyze spatial data and solve problems. In transportation, they might use GIS to map traffic patterns, identify accident hotspots, and plan transportation routes. This course on traffic flow may provide you with a deeper understanding of how traffic and pedestrian movements can be represented and analyzed using geospatial data. The learnings from this course can help a Geospatial Analyst model and visualize traffic patterns using simulation software.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/mohgxw/enhance
Reading list
We've selected one books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Enhance Traffic Simulations with VISSIM & VISWALK.
Provides a comprehensive overview of traffic flow theory, which is essential for understanding the underlying principles of traffic simulation. It delves into mathematical models and analytical techniques used to describe traffic behavior. While not directly focused on VISSIM or VISWALK, it provides the theoretical foundation needed to effectively calibrate and validate simulation models. This book valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of traffic dynamics.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/mohgxw/enhance
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