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Analysing Travel Patterns at Beirut Arab University, Lebanon: An In-Depth Characterization of Travel Behavior on Campus

Author

Listed:
  • Rouba Joumblat

    (Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1105, Lebanon)

  • Hadi Jawad

    (Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1105, Lebanon)

  • Adel Elkordi

    (Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt)

Abstract

Understanding the travel patterns of university campus visitors is crucial for developing effective transportation strategies. Existing research predominantly focuses on student commuting within specific regions, often overlooking the diverse needs of faculty and staff and varying campus contexts. This study addresses a significant gap in the literature by investigating travel behaviors at Beirut Arab University (BAU), which has not been previously studied in this context. BAU’s unique situation, with campuses in both urban and rural zones, presents distinct transportation challenges, particularly for those traveling between these areas. Through a comprehensive survey of students, faculty, and staff, this research explores differences in transportation modes, travel distances, durations, and patterns. Statistical techniques, including one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Chi-Squared, and McNemar-Bowker tests, reveal significant variations among traveler groups. The findings highlight specific needs, such as improvements in bus services, car-sharing programs, and parking facilities, essential for creating sustainable campus environments. By examining these travel behaviors, the study offers valuable insights into the complexities of campus transportation, contributing new perspectives to the field. The originality of this research lies in its focus on an underexplored area, providing a deeper understanding of how diverse university environments impact transportation choices. This work not only fills a critical void in campus transportation research but also offers practical recommendations for enhancing transportation systems in similar settings.

Suggested Citation

  • Rouba Joumblat & Hadi Jawad & Adel Elkordi, 2024. "Analysing Travel Patterns at Beirut Arab University, Lebanon: An In-Depth Characterization of Travel Behavior on Campus," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(18), pages 1-26, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:18:p:8254-:d:1483344
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Navid Nadimi & Aliakbar Zamzam & Todd Litman, 2023. "University Bus Services: Responding to Students’ Travel Demands?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(11), pages 1-17, June.
    2. Rybarczyk, Greg & Gallagher, Laura, 2014. "Measuring the potential for bicycling and walking at a metropolitan commuter university," Journal of Transport Geography, Elsevier, vol. 39(C), pages 1-10.
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