Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Transportation Engineering and VISSIM
•    Overview of transportation engineering principles and objectives.
•    Introduction to VISSIM software and its functionalities.
•    Setting up a basic traffic simulation model in VISSIM.
•    Understanding traffic flow theory and simulation basics.
•    Case Study: Simple traffic simulation for a local intersection.

Module 2: Traffic Flow and Volume Analysis
•    Principles of traffic flow and volume analysis.
•    Techniques for collecting and analyzing traffic data.
•    Modeling traffic flow in VISSIM: Input data, parameters, and settings.
•    Interpreting simulation results and traffic volume data.
•    Case Study: Analysis of traffic volume and flow for a busy urban corridor.

Module 3: Intersection Design and Simulation
•    Principles of intersection design: Types and configurations.
•    Modeling different types of intersections in VISSIM: Signalized, unsignalized, roundabouts.
•    Evaluating intersection performance using VISSIM.
•    Optimization of intersection design for improved traffic flow.
•    Case Study: Simulation and design of a signalized intersection.

Module 4: Traffic Signal Timing and Control
•    Fundamentals of traffic signal control and timing.
•    Designing and implementing traffic signal plans in VISSIM.
•    Analyzing the impact of different signal timings on traffic flow.
•    Case studies on optimizing traffic signal control for various scenarios.
•    Case Study: Traffic signal timing optimization for a metropolitan area.

Module 5: Public Transportation Simulation
•    Overview of public transportation systems and their impact on traffic.
•    Modeling buses, trams, and other public transit modes in VISSIM.
•    Analyzing interactions between public transportation and general traffic.
•    Optimizing public transit routes and schedules through simulation.
•    Case Study: Simulation of a bus rapid transit (BRT) system in a city.

Module 6: Traffic Management and Incident Analysis
•    Principles of traffic management and incident response.
•    Modeling traffic incidents and their effects on traffic flow in VISSIM.
•    Strategies for managing and mitigating traffic incidents.
•    Analyzing incident data to improve traffic management practices.
•    Case Study: Simulation and management of a major traffic incident.

Module 7: Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Simulation
•    Importance of including pedestrian and bicycle traffic in simulations.
•    Modeling pedestrian and bicycle traffic flows in VISSIM.
•    Evaluating the impact of non-motorized traffic on overall transportation systems.
•    Designing infrastructure to accommodate and enhance pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
•    Case Study: Simulation of a mixed-use urban area with pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

Module 8: Advanced Traffic Simulation Techniques
•    Introduction to advanced features and techniques in VISSIM.
•    Use of additional tools and modules for complex simulations.
•    Calibration and validation of simulation models.
•    Integration of VISSIM with other transportation planning tools.
•    Case Study: Advanced simulation of a major highway interchange.

Module 9: Field Visits and Practical Insights
•    Field visits to traffic control centers and transportation planning offices.
•    Observation of real-time traffic management and simulation practices.
•    Discussion with professionals about real-world applications and challenges.
•    Application of field insights to improve simulation models and planning.
•    Case Study: Analysis and improvement of a local traffic simulation project based on field observations.

Module 10: Final Project and Presentation
•    Integration of all course modules into a comprehensive final project.
•    Development and presentation of a detailed traffic simulation model using VISSIM.
•    Peer review and feedback on final projects.
•    Summary of key learnings and best practices.
•    Case Study: Complete traffic simulation project encompassing various elements learned throughout the course.