Transportation Systems (1.221J / 11.527J / ESD.201J) has two major goals:
The subject focuses on fundamental principles of transportation systems, introduces transportation systems components and networks, and addresses how one invests in and operates them effectively. The tie between transportation and related systems is emphasized.
We discuss operating characteristics of various modes and intermodal combinations (transportation supply) and offer a perspective on "customers" (e.g., freight shippers, travelers) of transportation services and how they make transportation decisions (transportation demand).
We introduce quantitative modeling ideas and various techniques and philosophies of modeling complex transportation enterprises. Also, conceptual "frameworks" for qualitative analysis are introduced (e.g., framework for strategic regional planning, institutional change analysis, new technology development, and deployment).
1.221J / 11.527J / ESD.201J strives to be an interdisciplinary systems subject in the "open" sense. We look at transportation as a CLIOS (complex, large-scale, integrated, open system) embedded within and linked to many other related societal systems, and recognize the broad impact of transportation system design and deployment decisions.
1.221J / 11.527J / ESD.201J is required for all first-year Master of Science in Transportation students. It would be of interest to, as well as accessible to, students in Urban Studies and Planning, Political Science, Technology and Policy, Management, and various engineering departments. It is a good subject for those who plan to take only one subject in transportation and serves as an entry point to other transportation subjects as well.
While conducted as a graduate subject, motivated undergraduates interested in transportation and a broad perspective on large-scale systems are welcome. CEE undergraduates can use 1.221J / 11.527J / ESD.201J as a subject in a transportation concentration, satisfying the SB requirement in Course I.
A schedule of lectures is available in the calendar section.
The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering adheres to the strictest standards of academic honesty. An important aspect of achieving these standards is to be sure that students are aware of expectations of faculty as regards academic honesty. This statement clarifies the faculty's expectations in 1.221J / 11.527J / ESD.201J. See the sections on assignments and exams for further expectations germane to this course.
If you have any questions about how these policies relate to a specific situation, you should speak to the Professor or TA for clarification.
MIT's academic honesty policy can be found at the following link: Policies and Procedures.