Background: An effective way to integrate physical activity into the daily
routine is through active travel. However, the switching daily travel habits for example,
from driving to cycling, is not simple. Global and national goals aim to reduce the
number of motorised vehicles in cities and increase active modes of travel to make
greener, more inclusive spaces for more active modes of movement. However, there
is a knowledge gap on how to engage motor vehicle drivers - the group with the largest
potential to increase levels of physical activity - in more active modes of movement.
Aim: To understand ways motor vehicle drivers can be engaged in active
mobility research.
Method: This research comprises of two sequential stages. Firstly, a scoping
review was carried out to identify and map methods used to engage motor vehicle
drivers in research while close or in their vehicles. Data and key themes were identified
from the studies and processed into visual diagrams to help initiate discussion about
methods between academic researchers and external stakeholders. Secondly, an
experimental appraisal of methods was undertaken through an interdisciplinary lens.
Results from this scoping review along with research methods practiced by colleagues
within Strathclyde’s Active Mobility Hub were presented and discussed with other
research colleagues, members of the city council and transport focused organisations.
This tested an initial appraisal with stakeholders who have experience engaging with
road users in practice.
Results: Within this scoping review 33 papers were identified referencing road
users and intercept methods. Different characterises of methods were reviewed to
begin to identify ways to engage road users. The review found that intercept methods
are a way in which researchers can get close to drivers while in or near their vehicles
along with other road users. However, due to safety measures, drivers are more often
being approached at destinations rather than en route. Along with targeting drivers,
intercept methods have been used to approach other road users in active mobility
research. These take place in public environments, and this can limit the amount and
type of information which can be collected by surveyors. From initiating a discussion
with stakeholders, feedback on how methods could be integrated to support city policy
and practices were initiated. This collaboration further developed ideas on how to
engage members of the public ‘in situ’ using more qualitative novel and arts-based
methods.
Discussion and conclusions: This research has opened discussions about
methods used in different disciplines and how these can used to engage road users
in research. The limited number of examples of studies engaging motor vehicle drivers
in active mobility research presents a gap in research methods. There is an opportunity
in using intercept methods to gain proximity to drivers and gather their opinions,
however, further research is required to evaluate how to do this safely and effectively
in a location.
| Date of Award | 7 Oct 2025 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Awarding Institution | - University Of Strathclyde
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| Sponsors | University of Strathclyde |
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| Supervisor | Deirdre Harrington (Supervisor) & Neil Ferguson (Supervisor) |
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