Modeling the relationship between transportation-related carbon dioxide emissions and hybrid-online courses at a large urban university
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 7 July 2014
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the relationship between hybrid classes (where a per cent of the class meetings are online) and transportation-related CO2 emissions at a commuter campus similar to San José State University (SJSU).
Design/methodology/approach
A computer model was developed to calculate the number of trips to campus for a student body similar to SJSU. Different scenarios considered the theoretical effectiveness of implementing a hybrid course system to reduce CO2 emissions.
Findings
Increases in hybrid courses resulted in decreased student trips to campus and associated CO2 emissions. The utility of such a relationship is demonstrated through a case study where the required increase in online class meetings needed to eliminate the need for an overflow parking lot is studied. Finally, preferential scheduling of online meetings can further reduce trips to campus.
Research limitations/implications
A limitation of the model is that student schedules are random. Future research could use actual student schedules to better model how online course delivery will affect trips to campus.
Practical implications
As today’s universities struggle with financial pressure, online course delivery is being offered as a way to cope. This analysis provides an additional metric to evaluate online courses and includes other potential financial savings.
Social implications
Transportation contributes to local air pollution and emissions of heat-trapping gases. As universities move toward more sustainable behaviors, reducing automobile trips to campus can be seen as a priority.
Originality/value
To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to model the relationship between hybrid courses and CO2 emissions at an urban university. This information will be valuable to the SJSU community, as well as many other institutions.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding to support this work was provided by the College of International and Extended Studies at SJSU.
Citation
Little, M. and Cordero, E. (2014), "Modeling the relationship between transportation-related carbon dioxide emissions and hybrid-online courses at a large urban university", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 15 No. 3, pp. 270-279. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-11-2012-0100
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited