MODULE 1: TRAFFIC OPERATIONS STUDIES
Traffic operations studies are undertaken to determine the characteristics of transportation system users, to monitor system operation, to identify problem areas, and to assist in developing appropriate remedial actions. ITE’s Manual of Transportation Engineering Studies provides in-depth discussion of 18 different types of transportation engineering studies. This module focuses on statistical analysis and principle types of traffic operations studies, including volume, speed, travel time and delay, parking, pedestrian studies, traffic impact studies, and urban and regional planning studies.
MODULE 2: TRAFFIC OPERATIONS UNINTERRUPTED FLOW
Traffic operations deals with the safe efficient movement of vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles within the transportation system. An understanding of traffic operations requires a foundation of traffic flow theory, road user characteristics, and highway capacity analysis. This module focuses on uninterrupted flow facilities such as freeways and rural roadways. Tools for improving traffic operations include freeway surveillance and control, incident management, managed lanes, and travel demand management. All of these topics are discussed in this module.
MODULE 3: TRAFFIC OPERATIONS INTERRUPTED FLOW
Interrupted flow facilities are those where frequent traffic control signals and/or STOP signs periodically interrupt the movement of traffic, and are typical of urban street systems. This module covers intersection control selection and capacity analysis. Tools for improving traffic operations include transportation system management techniques, access management, traffic calming and speed control, and multi-modal system considerations.
MODULE 4: ELEMENTS OF GEOMETRIC DESIGN
Geometric design of highways includes the design of the visible elements of the facility. The design must be consistent with the intended functional classification of the highway, and fit the characteristics of the users, i.e., the drivers and the vehicles that the drivers are operating. The quality and consistency of the highway design will have a long-term effect on the safety and efficiency of the facility. Important elements of geometric design discussed in this module include sight distance criteria, horizontal and vertical alignments, cross sectional features, intersection and channelization design, and interchange configurations.
MODULE 5: TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
Success in the driving task depends on the drivers’ ability to receive and use information from many sources, including traffic control devices. Principles of driver information needs and processing capabilities are discussed in this module, as well as principles of uniform traffic control devices and the role of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Types and applications of signs, pavement markings, and traffic control signals are discussed. Principles of traffic signal phasing and timing, and signal system operation are covered. Traffic control devices for highway-railroad grade crossings and highway work zones are also emphasized in this module.
MODULE 6: TRAFFIC SAFETY
Crashes and their outcomes are complex events involving the highway, driver, and environmental factors. A successful highway safety improvement program must an organized process for identification of problems, analysis of problems, development of alternative solutions, application of the solutions, and evaluation of the outcome of the improvements. This module includes a discussion of techniques for using crash data to identify high hazard locations, analysis of crash patterns, identification of appropriate countermeasures, and evaluation of the effectiveness of improvements. Because, the threat of lawsuits may adversely influence safety program decisions and actions, this module also includes a discussion of principles of legal liability.